The importance of the takeaway in a golf swing cannot be overstated, as it sets the tone for the entire swing and can greatly impact the outcome of a shot. One common mistake that many golfers make during the takeaway is pushing their hands away from their body, which can lead to a number of swing faults and inconsistencies. Instead, instructors like Bryce Cope emphasize keeping the hands low and inside during the takeaway, which helps maintain a square clubface and promotes a more effective swing path.
When players push their hands away from their body during the takeaway, it can cause the clubface to open and lead to an over-the-top swing, resulting in poor contact and accuracy. By keeping the hands low and inside, golfers can achieve a more solid and consistent ball strike, as demonstrated by top players like Viktor Hovland, Nelly Korda, and Justin Thomas. The key is to feel the back hand going over the back shoelaces with the palm staying down, rather than rolling the palm up to the sky.
While the takeaway is crucial for all clubs, some golfers may find themselves struggling with this move more specifically with the driver. This could be due to the length and weight of the club, prompting players to try to help it around their body. By focusing on keeping the hands in and the clubhead outside the hands, golfers can improve their consistency and accuracy with all clubs. It’s important to find a balance between maintaining a wide arc and avoiding overextending the arms, as this can lead to other swing faults.
Instructors like Bryce Cope recommend mental cues like “hands in, club out” to help golfers achieve a proper takeaway without dragging the club inside. By practicing the correct hand and arm movements, players can develop a more efficient swing and avoid compensations during the downswing. It’s essential to find a method that works for each individual player, as there are various ways to achieve a successful takeaway. By focusing on this fundamental aspect of the swing, golfers can improve their overall game and enjoy better results on the course.
