Focusing on two points - spine angle at address and the position of the left arm on the downswing - clears up the confusion about swing plane and explains its effect on your golf swing. The most common reason for swinging off plane is adopting the wrong spine angle at address.
SETTING YOUR PROPER SPINE ANGLE- Stand erect with your chin up (not head down) and form your grip with the club head right at eye level.
- Slightly flex your knees forward (don't bend your knees, just a slight flex).
- Tip forward from the hips - not the waist - keeping your head in line with your spine (chin up).
- Finally, lower your arms so they point directly straight to the ground. The club head will fall into the proper ball position. For most golfers you will feel as if you are too close to the ball.
Here is a great test to see if you have the proper upper body tilt:
Once you’re all set up, let go of the club with your right hand and extend your arm and fingers. Reach for your right knee with your right middle finger, for proper upper body tilt, your finger should touch half an inch above your kneecap.
The spine angle forms the natural axis around which your shoulders should turn at a 90-degree angle. The spine angle you set at address is critical because it decides the shape and plane of your swing.
If a player tilts too far over at address, the flatter spine angle causes the shoulders to "tilt" during the swing. As a result, your left arm comes off your chest during your swing, your backswing becomes upright, and your swing plane is too steep. Fat shots, deep divots, and pulls and slices are symptoms of a steep plane.
If a player leans too far back at address, the more erect spine angle causes the shoulders to flatten during the swing. As a result, your left arm squeezes too tightly against your chest, your backswing becomes flatter, and your swing plane is too shallow. Hitting behind the ball, thin shots, and loss of power are symptoms of a shallow plane.
Setting your proper spine angel is sure to improve your game. Check your set-up each time you practice and when you hit the course you're sure to hit solid shots!
Now go out and play better golf!
On the 1st tee of Chaska, Minnesota's Hazeltine national country Club, a complete novice asked his caddy,
"how does one play this game?"
"See that flag, sir? Just hit the ball in that direction."
The novice uncorked an absolutely incredible drive.
At the green, the caddy couldn't believe his eyes- the ball lay only 3 inches from the cup. He jumped up and down excitedly.
"What do I do here?" asked the player, coming up.
"Get the ball into the cup, sir!"
"NOW he tells me!"
