The First Foot Back

photo credit: stanik2007   The first 12 inches of your backswing can determine the outcome of your swing.  Drag the clubhead back, keeping it low to the ground.  Once it’s back approximately one foot it will automatically rise.  The whole process is started by your shoulders, not your arms as some believe.  Tip:  place a tee about about eighteen inches behind the ball.  Hit the tee on the way back. 

Drag the club back on the inside of the target line to promote an inside-out swing-path. 

The takeaway should be a smooth, one piece motion.  Some players find that hovering the clubhead above the ground is an ideal way to achieve good tempo and promote good timing.  It can also prevent the club from snagging on the grass.