As a coach in both golf and basketball, the author reflects on how he used to overwhelm his students with jargon and instructions in an attempt to showcase his knowledge. However, over time, he learned the power of simplicity and now emphasizes the importance of holding the follow through in his teachings. This article delves into why this simple idea has such a significant impact on improving a player’s swing, particularly for those who have too many swing thoughts or want to learn about their swing flaws.
The concept of holding your follow through is praised for its simplicity and universality. It serves as a clear instruction that golfers of all skill levels can understand and implement. By focusing on this straightforward directive, players can effectively eliminate the clutter of excessive swing thoughts that often hinder performance. By erasing these mental distractions, the phrase also alleviates psychological pressure and allows players to focus on executing the swing without the burden of multiple expectations.
Moreover, “hold your follow through” serves as an external cue, which research has shown to be more effective in facilitating motor learning compared to internal cues. When players focus on this cue, they often achieve a balanced finish with proper weight shift, a full turn towards the target, and a well-aligned club position. This simple instruction can lead to improvements in various aspects of the swing, including club face control and impact position. Despite its brevity, the lesson of holding the follow through can have a profound impact on a player’s performance.
One key advantage of holding the follow through is that it provides immediate and easily understood feedback to players. Whether it’s the shift of weight, rotation of the chest, or alignment of the club, the follow through serves as a tangible indicator of the swing’s execution. This feedback allows players to make quick adjustments and provides a clear cue for their next swing. Unlike internal cues that often require video confirmation, the follow through feedback is readily observable and easily actionable, making it a valuable tool for ongoing improvement.
While holding the follow through is most commonly associated with the full swing, its principles can also be applied to other aspects of the game, such as the short game and putting. By emphasizing a complete follow through in chip shots and pitches, players can avoid rushed or incomplete motions that may result in inconsistent shots. Similarly, in putting, a smooth, flowing stroke can be reinforced by extending the follow through past the impact point. “Hold your follow through” serves as a versatile cue that can be utilized across all facets of the game to enhance performance and consistency.
Ultimately, the simplicity and effectiveness of the hold your follow through lesson make it a valuable tool for golfers seeking to improve their game. Rather than getting bogged down in complex swing mechanics or overwhelming thoughts, focusing on this single instruction can lead to tangible improvements in technique and performance. By emphasizing this straightforward cue, players can streamline their approach to the game and enjoy better results on the course. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, incorporating the concept of holding your follow through can help elevate your game and enhance your overall experience on the course.
