One of the more-uttered tips to come out of amateur golfers’ mouths, especially after you have just hit a shot thin, is to keep your head down. James Loughnane explains in simple terms why this is one of the worst thing you could possibly do.
How often have you been told to keep your head down? I’ll bet you have probably lost count.
Now we may all have the best intentions by keeping our head down but the reality is that we are not helping our swing. If you keep your head down it is impossible to have a dynamic and athletic address position. This means your shoulders cannot turn. If your shoulders can’t turn properly then your hips won’t work either. We then make a swing utilising our arms only. Hardly the recipe for a powerful, repeating golf swing.
Watch the ball
Remember, golf is a team game. We need the club, hips and shoulders all working for us and not against us. Have a look at the top players today. None of them strive to keep their heads down through their swing. They all watch the ball.
Most South Africans grew up playing ball sports and regardless of the sport, watching the ball is essential. Golf is no different.
Notice how natural and simple the top players make the swing look while our weekly playing partners often make the swing look rigid and contrived. Why? The professionals watch the ball and the amateurs try to keep their heads down.
If you find that you hit a lot of shots thin or you are topping the ball, you should consult your local PGA professional for advice.
There is a good chance that bad posture or an improper pivot motion are to blame and not your poor old head. The only person who will benefit from keeping your head down is your chiropractor!
So, don’t keep your head down – watch the ball!
Meet the pro
James Loughnane is the director of golf at King David Golf Club in Cape Town. He is an AAA member of the PGA of SA as well as a member of the British PGA. James is also a former winner on the Sunshine Tour and is a Mizuno staff player. Contact James on 021 934 0365
