By Gabe Reynolds
Special to the Record
San Marcos —
Golf is often dismissed as a sport due to the perception that athleticism is not a prerequisite for playing it well. Of course many of the people who disparage the sport could not swing a driver at a golf ball without falling over.
This brings us to our tip for the week.
Balance is the most important athletic component of a successful golf swing.
Professional golfers create well over 100-miles per hour of swing speed with a driver. Big hitters like Bubba Watson, Phil Mickelson, and Tiger Woods create club head speeds north of 120 mph.
It takes incredible balance to create that much speed while at the same time maintaining one’s posture well enough to still strike the ball solidly.
It is equally important for an amateur to develop good balance in order maximize his/her scoring potential. To find great balance in your swing, try this drill.
First, take a good athletic stance. A stance with proper balance would make it difficult for someone to push you over from any direction.
Now that you have taken your stance, close your eyes and swing. Once your eyes are closed, you should become keenly aware of the feel and balance of your swing.
When you can make a full swing with your eyes closed and maintain your balance throughout, you are ready to go to the course.
Armed with a heightened sense of awareness for how to use your natural athleticism and balance, your ball striking should quickly improve.
You are all welcome to come join us at Quail Creek to play in our Super Bowl Scramble at 1:30 on Feb. 5th. Go to www.quailcreek-cc.com or call the Pro Shop (512-353-1665) for details.
Gabe Reynolds is the Director of Golf at Quail Creek Country Club. His column appears every Sunday in the Daily Record.
