Getting Power Into The Golf Ball

When you have learned how to hit the ball, the next thing in order is the amount of energy or power you can apply to it. It is only the energy which is transmitted to the ball that counts. Let us then examine the different facts which confront us and determine their relative importance.

In the first place we must remember that it is necessary to maintain the balance or the head will move so that we cannot see the ball clearly. The next is that as the face of the club is to be connected with the ball in a straight line we must endeavor in starting our swing to do nothing which will prevent our bringing the club back to the ball in the same way.

The natural tendency of the beginner is to brace himself for the effort. Every one knows that the beginner does not play good golf. His method must be wrong then. He is too stiff. It takes most golfers years to learn this simple fact, and they always have a lingering tendency to stiffen up.

I know golfers who set themselves rigidly to start and unbend one muscle at a time till they have thought out each individual step in the process. They remind one of a mechanical toy playing golf.

If you will take a club in your hand and start your, back swing easily and naturally, directing your attention to observing when your head starts to sway, you will find that it happens at the instant when you stiffen a single muscle. The slightest tendency to stiffen will instantly destroy the balance. It is well worth your while to convince yourself that this is so.