#4 DOWNSWING SEQUENCING
While good rhythm tends to improve the sequence of your motion, sequencing can and should be worked on directly to improve consistency. We’ll focus on the downswing because poor movement patterns here have the capacity to cause more wild shots. The real key is to grasp that good sequencing means lower body first, upper body second. This exercise will show you how. Start in slow motion, but work up to hitting balls.
1. Swing to the top
Place something vertically just outside your lead foot – ideally an alignment stick but your golf bag can work, too. Take a mid-iron and swing to the top. Place your awareness on the gap between your lead hip and the stick/bag.
2. Shift to close the gap
Good downswing sequencing begins with a lateral shift or bump that sends your lead hip into contact with the stick/bag. This important first move gets your weight driving forward; it also ensures your downswing is driven by the legs and the lower body, with the arms and upper body relatively passive at this stage.
3. Turn against the stick
The stick or bag represents the extent of the shift. Once you feel your hip touch it, the lateral motion – towards the target – is done. Your job now is to rotate against it, your lead hip clearing, lead leg straightening and your chest and belt buckle starting to rotate and see the target.
4. Finish: Chest over stick
Commit to this lower body-led shift-rotate downswing sequence and you will end your swing with your chest over the stick/bag. Watch for the common error of finishing with your chest behind the stick. That’s a sign your lower half is not working hard enough to shift you forwards and it delivers poor striking and weak slices.