Mastering Swing Plane and Grip Pressure

Introduction 

In the world of golf, perfecting your swing plane and grip pressure can make a world of difference in your performance on the course. In this blog post, we will follow the story of Makoto, an avid golfer struggling with these aspects of his game. Join us as we delve into the valuable insights provided by Angel Martinez as he reveals the secret of swinging on plane. Let's uncover the secrets to a smooth golf swing to perform better on the course! 

Swinging on plane and understanding grip pressure

 

Understanding Swing Plane and Grip Pressure 

Makoto, a golfer with 14 years of experience, has been grappling with grip pressure and swing plane issues for quite some time. With an average score ranging from mid-80s to mid-90s, he is determined to enhance his game.

Angel Martinez, a seasoned golf instructor, starts by analyzing Makoto's swing. He identifies a closed face and a slight spin to the right as the ball moves. Angel commends Makoto's takeaway and alignment but notes a flaw in his swing plane – being too flat or "laid off." This flaw causes Makato to come over the top during his downswing, leading to inconsistent shots. 

practice swing

 

Correcting Swing Plane and Grip Pressure  

To address Makato's concerns, Angel dives into the discussion of swing plane. He emphasizes the importance of grip pressure, which Makoto had previously mentioned. Angel explains the proper grip pressure, emphasizing the role of the top hand in holding the club lightly while maintaining mobility. Closing the grip with your fingers and leaving your thumb and index finger loose allows for a more mobile and less constricting swing.

correct grip pressure


Angel guides Makoto through the correct setup and takeaway, focusing on hinging the club to make the swing more vertical. He emphasizes the need for shoulder rotation and dropping the elbow for a better swing path. Angel demonstrates the technique, ensuring Makoto understands the adjustments required for an optimal swing plane. 

correct swing path and being on plane

 

Practice and Improvement  

During the session, Angel provides valuable tips and advice, using an alignment stick to help Makoto visualize and maintain the correct swing plane. He encourages Michael to practice in front of a mirror, ensuring the club remains vertical and the shoulders rotate smoothly.

As Makoto works on his swing, he gradually improves his ball flight, noticing a desirable right-to-left draw. Angel reinforces the significance of a good arm structure and the alignment of the left arm with the right shoulder.

For folks at home, stretching your shoulders and arms allow for more mobility to allow your body to improve the swing motion. Some may find the swing uncomfortable as they have adapted to swinging in a way that's most comfortable, which isn't always correct. 

alignment stick practice

 

Conclusion  

Mastering swing plane and grip pressure can significantly impact your golf game. Through the guidance of Angel Martinez in this blog, Makoto gains valuable insights into correcting his swing plane and adjusting his grip pressure. With dedicated practice and attention to detail, Makoto will begin to see further improvements in his shots and overall consistency on the course, as he has proved in his test shots.

Remember, swing plane and grip pressure are critical elements that can be mastered by any golfer. Take the time to understand the principles, practice diligently, and watch your game reach new heights!