The Problem with “Swing your Swing”

The commercial featuring Arnold Palmer is a great example of how one powerful message can be both inspiring and, unfortunately, misinterpreted. Palmer’s famous line, “swing your swing, I certainly did,” is often cited by golfers to justify ignoring the fundamentals of a proper golf swing.

While his message emphasized individuality and embracing one’s own unique swing, it’s essential to understand that there is still a universal set of mechanics that every successful golfer adheres to, regardless of how their swing may look on the surface.

The Importance of Proper Swing Sequencing

At the core of a successful golf swing, one characteristic is universally applied:

proper sequencing in the downswing. This sequencing works “from the ground up,” starting with the lower body (hips), moving through the torso, arms, and finally the club. This approach not only generates more clubhead speed, which leads to greater distance, but it also helps prevent the “over-the-top” motion that causes many golfers to slice the ball.

The Role of Proper Sequencing

The sequence of movements is what allows the body to generate the power and control needed for consistent, accurate shots. When a golfer properly sequences their swing:

1. The whipping action (lag) that occurs in the downswing creates more speed, which translates to more distance.

2. The swing naturally falls into the correct “slot,” avoiding the over-the-top motion that leads to common issues like slicing.

   
   

The Misinterpretation of “Swing Your Swing”

While Arnold Palmer’s words are inspiring and offer freedom for golfers to embrace their own style, the idea of simply “swinging your swing” has been taken too far. The phrase has become an excuse for golfers to ignore fundamental principles of good swing mechanics.

Yes, every swing will look different due to differences in body types, flexibility, and motor patterns, but the mechanics that drive a successful golf swing are consistent across top players.

For example, Adam Scott and Jim Furyk are two golfers with vastly different looking swings, but their sequencing in the downswing is nearly identical. Similarly, Jack Nicklaus and Ben Hogan had swings that looked very different at the top, but their impact positions were nearly the same. The consistency in sequencing is what makes these golfers successful—not just their unique, personal styles.

How to Improve Swing Sequence

Improving your swing sequence is critical for enhancing consistency, power, and accuracy. While it’s hard to consciously think “hips, torso, arms, club” during the downswing, practice and repetition can help engrain this motor pattern. Here are some strategies to improve sequencing:

1. Slow Practice: As Harvey Penick and Ben Hogan suggested, one of the best ways to learn proper sequencing is to practice slowly. This allows the golfer to focus on each part of the swing and reinforce the correct movements before gradually increasing speed.

2. Break Down the Swing: Another effective method is to break the swing down into smaller segments. For example, you can practice bringing the club to the top of the backswing and then focus on starting the downswing with the hips. Once this motion becomes ingrained, gradually incorporate it into the full swing.

3. Technology: Using technology like a K-Coach can provide real-time data to measure and track sequencing in the swing. This is especially helpful for golfers who are struggling to improve their sequencing or who want to see their progress objectively.

   
   

The Challenge of Mastering Sequence

Mastering swing sequence is difficult because many golfers naturally try to lead with their hands at the top of the backswing, which often results in an over-the-top motion. This move is a common cause of the slice, which is one of the most frustrating issues for golfers. However, with consistent practice and the right approach, golfers can retrain their body to sequence the downswing more efficiently.

The Takeaway

The message of "swing your swing" is not inherently wrong, but it is often misunderstood. Yes, golfers should embrace their own style and work with their natural body movements. However, it’s crucial to understand that certain mechanics, like swing sequence, should not be neglected.

By learning the right sequencing and improving efficiency, golfers will be able to swing more effectively, no matter how unorthodox their swing may appear.

Real-time Data and Stats: Using technology, such as trackers and video analysis, can provide real-time feedback on swing mechanics. Data such as clubhead speed, ball speed, launch angle, and path and face angle are important stats to track in order to assess swing sequencing.

These can give you concrete numbers to show how well you’re applying the sequencing mechanics.

In the end, golfers should strive to “swing their swing” in a way that is both personal and mechanically sound, ensuring they build a swing that is repeatable, consistent, and powerful.