Return to Golf Tips index
John Buser
PGA Professional
Tip 6: Tempo & Balance
Developing good tempo not only leads to better balance, but it also sets off a chain reaction of good things throughout your golf swing. Your goal should be to swing each club in your bag at the same pace for all full shots. It doesn't matter whether it's your driver or a short iron. The goal is still the same: Tempo and balance. First, work to develop a smooth, one-piece takeaway. Let your arms and shoulders start the swing with a consistent and coordinated movement. Next, focus on achieving balance by transferring your weight properly from your rear foot to your forward foot. The great Sam Snead developed a drill that can help you develop good tempo and balance. Swing the club like you're listening to a waltz -- one, two, three, four. Work on your balance at the same time by lifting your forward foot at the top of your backswing and your rear foot at the finish. Practice this over and over, and you'll find that developing a good swing tempo is as easy as one, two, three -- and four.
John Buser is the head professional at the TPC at River Highlands, Cromwell, CT. To improve your game, visit a Connecticut Section PGA Golf Professional.