Tiger’s Swing - Analyzed by Tracy Reed
This one needs no introduction.
I’ll just say this video contains a TON valuable information you can use to improve your own swing.
Sit back and enjoy - then please post below to give us your feedback.
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Regards,
Kory Basaraba
Publisher, Tracy Reed’s
Golf Swing Control
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Tracy,
This is great instruction - brings your text book to life! Not much golf in Denver this month but after watching the Tiger video - I am anxious to put a club in my hands and work on my swing.
Thank and Best Regards,
Pete
This is a great analysis of Tiger’s swing!!!! Everything in his swing seems to be consistant with what you say in your book and DVD.
Guys,
Awesome - this is the entire teaching in a nutshell. I love the way that you explain the transition. I will be watching this over and over again.
Thanks,
Tracy…thanks for sharing this….these pictures with your comments are worth all the words ever written. Your analysis is on the mark.
Wow! I’ve learned more in the last 2 weeks than I have in 2 years.
Your manual is well articulated and I can’t wait for the video.
Now the onus is on me to learn your system.
Beautiful analysis, beautifully presented.
Dark clothes against dark background makes the picture difficult to follow on my laptop screen.
Hi Tracy,
I enjoyed your analysis of Tigers great swing. You hit it right on the nail on most every point, but I do have some questions or clarifications on things that I’ve figured out since I bought the manual last year. Actually, I figured them out with the help of this website, http://www.golfswingsecretsrevealed.com/?hop=jimcoene72, which you can blot out, if you want, but it did help me fill in the missing pieces.
1) As I look at Tigers setup, his right elbow points at his right hip, but it looks to me like the left one points slightly left of his target line (not really at his left hip). I’d say closer to a position that is 90 degrees in rotation clockwise from the position of his right elbow. If his left elbow pointed at his left hip, I’d say it would be a 45 degree difference. He does maintain this right elbow @ right hip and left elbow 90 degrees clockwise to the positon of the right throughtout the swing.
2) On the back swing you are correct that he keeps his arms and chest moving together, synchronized. But how do you do that? It seems for that to happen, the muscles in both must be pretty passive. Are not the muscles in the upper & mid part of the back on the right side compressing while the muscles on the left side of the upper & mid back are stretching while his crest muscles are relaxed.
3) Isn’t he keeping his left arm extended, by applying a slight pressure out from the palm of his right hand onto his left thumb?
4) Now for the transition, when I tried the thought of starting by turning/rotating my belly button, my shots all went right to right with poor distance. Instead when I thought of starting it by compressing the mucles in my right side, just above the right, while elongating the the muscles just above the left hip, this started moving the belley button laterally an inch or so before it started turning, then after the belly button starts turning the right leg will automatically start providing its power, etc and the upper body will not catch up until after impact just as you said.
Best reguards & keep up the good work.
This was the simplest, and best, swing analysis I have ever seen. Well done.
Ties together a lot of golf instruction theory with common denominators and basic fundamentals. I particularly liked the detail about the set-up and the impact area. Makes sense!
Once again, great anaysis!
In my teaching, I stress that the transition begins with the right knee kicking in with the shoulders, arms, hands, and the clubhead to follow. Therefore retaining the 90* angle (arms and clubshaft) approach to the ball, with the butt of the grip leading the way. The right foot and right knee initiates the downswing, not the upper body.
It’s all good! Keep it up…
Thanks for the feedback everyone. It means a lot to Tracy and Eric and I that you guys are getting value from these videos.
Jim, I’m glad you’ve found additional ways to think about the swing that have helped you. As long as you’re playing better golf and having more fun, we’re happy.
Tracy may have his own thoughts about this, but I’d like to share a couple of ideas that came to mind reading your post.
One of the challenges we all face as golfers is “what do we think about during the swing?”. If you’ve ever tried to follow someone’s instructions and they’re telling you to think about this, now do that when your weight gets here…. it can be confusing.
And that’s normal at first - anytime we’re learning something new, we have to consciously think of every step until it becomes natural. (learning to drive a car is a great example. At first you’re hyper-aware of everything going on. After a few years, it seems like you can drive from work to home and not remember any part of the journey. It has all become “unconscious”)
The problem happens when the golf instructions we’re given can never really become “natural” because they violate some aspect of how the body works and so will always require a part of our mind to “consciously” pay attention to those instructions.
The more things we have to consciously think about during the swing, the more chances something will “drop out” during pressure and we’ll get an inconsistent swing.
Tracy has tried to break it down to the aspects of the swing that MUST be in place for success, giving people fewer things to think about while making their swing.
At work is a progression of swing fundamentals from “big to little” that naturally occur during the swing - meaning, big movements to little movements.
Prime example is balance as felt in the feet.
Shifts in pressure felt in the feet affect every part of the body. The feet are the only part contacting he earth and every change in the body weight is reflected in the feet.
By getting the balance in the feet correct first, you’re covering the most bases in your swing and correcting many swing faults at once. It’s like a chain-reaction traveling up your body from your feet.
If your balance is off, you’ve got to move your hips, chest, arms to regain balance. So finding balance is a “big” or “far reaching” adjustment that affects the rest of your body. Get this right, and the rest of your body falls into place.
And by identifying one “source” of balance (the feet) it’s easier to visualize and be aware of because you only have to put your attention in one place (your feet) to make a big difference in your swing.
It’s true what you’re saying about Tiger’s left elbow pointing slightly left of his target line. However, for most golfers to try and think about what the left elbow is doing separately from the right elbow adds a level of complexity to their swing.
By simplifying and saying “the elbows point to the hips”, it’s easier for golfers to do a mental check and verify this is happening (especially with the right elbow). Again, this simple guideline corrects many swing faults by keeping the elbows the same distance apart - which maintains the triangle and keeps a consistent distance from the chest to the ball, which reduces fat or thin shots, etc.
So for me the key is to sort through all the possible things you “could” focus on during the swing and choose the ones that give the biggest reward and result in the most consistency. Once balance is right 10 swings out of 10, move to the next step.
Eventually you have one “movie” in your head that represents your perfect swing - and if that movie was made step by step with correct balance along the way, you’ll have a game that will be the envy of everyone you play with.
You raise a good point about how you visualize your transition move. If that’s what works for you, then it’s right. You can’t argue with success. And your way still supports the fundamental concept in that your target side hip joint must be “set” before your downswing can be effective. As long as that’s happening every time you swing, you’re going to see improvement. How you get there is up to you.
Everyone sees things differently in their mind, and everyone will have a different mind-body awareness. For you, visualizing your muscles elongating and compressing to start the transition movement works. That’s what I would consider a natural evolution for you of your swing - you’ve found your own creative solution to get that to happen based on what’s natural for you to imagine.
Our challenge, and what I think Tracy has done brilliantly, is create a system of checkpoints (Tracy calls it “swing mapping”) that anyone can use to correct their swing faults and gain consistency.
The details of how each person “visualizes” the moves is different for everyone on the planet. But we all have a human skeleton that demands certain laws of physics are followed.
Tracy has told me over and over this is not about a specific type of swing - but about becoming aware of how the body moves naturally during the swing, and how to connect your mind to that movement so you do repeat it every time you swing.
We’d be crazy to think you aren’t going to keep looking for other techniques and instruction to help you with your swing. But our hope is once you understand the body mechanics and fundamentals that Tracy explains, and can apply them to your swing, you’ll be able to pull out what’s useful from other golf instruction without getting sent down a misleading path that will take you weeks to recover from.
Thanks for your comments, and I hope what I’ve shared with you was helpful.
For anyone trying to solve this puzzle of “how to make the proper swing”, I work on my swing every day and I’m amazed at how often something that Tracy has told me finally clicks - even months after hearing it the first time.
It’s exciting when you see progress EVERY time you play!
Warm regards,
Kory
Tracy,
Once again you’ve enlightened me to another aspect of my swing that I wasn’t aware of. I have been working hard on maintaining my connection, but I’ve only been focusing on my left arm and chest muscles. Through your analysis of Tiger’s swing, you’ve highlighted the need to focus on both arms and both sides of my chest. I also really thought that the emphasis you place on visualizing the butt-end of the club hitting the ball is spot on–yet another thing I need to work on.
I would agree with one of the comments about the dark colors of the video. The dark colors also made it hard for me to make out every move Tiger made. However, with your analysis, the areas I need to concentrate on came through load and clear. Well done and thank you very much.
fantastic instruction.paul.the netherlands
Hey guys,
Sorry to be replying this late, but I had an emergency practice day with one of my pros. (Yes, they lose it from time to time too.)
Thanks for your comments. I’m glad to know that these swing analysis (what’s plural for analysis?) are getting your minds into golf. Especially since many of you are under poor weather right now. Your comments are great.
Jim,
Some good points. One of the reasons Tiger has his left elbow in that position is because he uses a wrist position at the top of his swing that most golfers should stay away from unless they practice daily. It’s not easy to see in the video, but there are pros out there trying to copy it. I’ve seen more than a few completely lose there swing trying to copy Tigers wrists at the top of the swing. That elbow position helps him to make it happen. Most golfers would be more consistent by following Hogan’s advise and pointing both elbows toward the hip joints.
As far as the backswing, I like to keep it simple. If you have a properly balanced stance with good posture and stay connected during the backswing, the muscles that must perform at certain times do so. Trust me, even the pros don’t want that many thoughts running through their minds during a swing. Everything that happens, does so in response to a visual movie programmed in a golfers mind. That movie is what pros work on even more than their swings. Get the movie right and the body will move heaven and earth to follow it.
On the transition, What you speak of is another good way to make it. Everyone has a slightly different picture that works for them. What you describe is more similar to the “backing” move that works for many golfers.
Ted,
The camps are split between starting with the right leg and starting with the midsection of the body. Biomechanics shows that across all sports, the core starts it all, as was clear in Tiger’s swing. I’d be willing to bet that if you slowed down a video of your swing, you may find that the core has to get started just a tad before the legs. Just about every golfer I’ve taped has proven to do this even though it was their intention to start with the right leg. I’d be curious to see a video of your swing to see for sure. I’m sure there are golfers that do it with the right leg first, I just haven’t run into any yet.
Shawn,
You comments on the need for mental game improvement are on the money. Getting the mental game right is more than 90% of golf. Keep up the good work, you’ll be there soon.
Kory,
I am always amazed by how much you’ve retained since we started working together. It shows that you’re obviously bitten by the golf bug… It’s about time! Good work.
Thanks again guys,
Tracy
Great job of putting all the pieces together - it has become so much easier - I now understand the turn, and the source of power. More importantly I should be able to set up myself up to hit the ball consistently.
Thanks again.
Tracy,
I really enjoyed your analysis of Tiger’s swing, this will really help me visualize how my body should move through the entire golf swing. My greatest challenge has been understanding and making the transition work, seeing tiger swing with you explaining exactly how the transition happens gives me
the visualization that I need to make it happen, along with your instruction manual. Keep up the great work!
Thanks,
Bob
Missoula, MT
Kory & Tracy, Thanks for your comments,
With respect to what Ted said about starting the down swing with the right knee kicking in to start the downswing. I feel into this trap for along time, believing that the downswing started from the ground up (which it does, in a way). But when that was my first move, my right knee got left of my right hip and from there you have no balance or way to be stable enough to make it to impact in a stable position. It feels fast, but you have shot your wad at the top. If you start as I think, by elongating your left side muscles(lats?) and contracting your right side muscles, you will have moved your hips left with them, while your arms drop. I sometimes thing of it as bring my right elbow into my right side, above the right hip by using only ab muscles. Now your mid & upper abs, right leg, will still have coiling power left in them, along with maintaining your wrist cock. At this point your right foot will be right of the right kneed and right of the right hip which will _automatically_ allow you to push off near impact with the still stored power if right leg.
Tracy, the biggest thing your manual has done for me, is to make me believe that I or anyone with reasonable athletic ability can learn to make a good repeatable golf swing similar to the pro’s. That’s huge, because if you think as I did for years that those guys & gals have some inborn talent that is impossible to attain, it puts a limit on what you will try to achieve. When I began working with you last year, I had mentioned that I was having problems feeling the swing in my feet. I also mentioned that my left arm would break down and that at impact I was in the chicken wing position. You suggested I work on my back swing turn with the body using the drill where you put the back of the hands together & also concentrate of the club head path at impact. I think however I was basically making a correct turn with the body, however, because I could not figure out how to control my arms, the feeling in my feet was different every time I swung the club. Like trying to visualize through broken glass. When I learned to make the “back wrist break”, referenced in the web site in my earlier post, I found it easy to achieve the flat left wrist position at the top of the swing and also more importantly at impact. Now when I go through my new swing in slow motion, I can constantly feel the pressure in my feet as you describe. I’m still having trouble however using foot pressure as the _controlling_ focus for my swing. On several occasions this summer I committed to that prior to playing my round only to have the worst ball striking rounds possible. That frustrated the heck out of me. I think what it is however, is that when I try to focus my conscious mind on the feet, I revert to my old habits and my arms break down and I can no longer get a consistent feel in the feet. I vicious cycle. So perhaps if controlling the arms is automatic for you and many/most others, then this works great. I hope to reach this point over time. But if there are others out there who have problems feeling the weight pressure in there feet, then I hope they will look into the back wrist break and see if it will be of help to them.
Hi Tracy,
8 Dec/07
Thank you for sharing your excellant analysis of Tiger Woods swing.
I would like your opinion on the following points please.
1) Because of the tilt of the upper body and with the head pointing towards the ball, unless he allows his head to rotate to the right as the backswing develops he would find it impossable to achieve the shoulder turn which he does achieve.
Jack Nicholson overcomes this by turning his head to the right as part of his take away, so does Nick Faldo, you tend to be looking at the ball with one eye at the top of the backswing becouse your nose gets in the way of seeing the ball with the right eye, its even worse with glasses because the frame gets in the way.
There is one redeaming feature, if your left eye is the dominate eye so much the better, and we all know how to check that.
Question ? is it better to set the head before the swing gets underway, or do as Tiger does and let things take their course.
2) You make no mention of the fact that Tiger and Erni Else for that matter keep the left heel planted on the ground for most of the swing, is this another source of providing in built power?.( although Jack did not need it)
3) It looks to my that there is a distinct rotation of the hands/arms as soon as the backswing gets underway, this is plainly evident from the frame when Tigers hands have moved back outside his right leg and still level with the ground, the back of his left hand is facing towards the front, also at the top his left wrist is flat with no cupping which means that the leading edge of the club is in line with his left wrist, ie he is playing the game inside his left wrist with the club face square as it was at address. comment please.
4) Now the thorney question of the transition.
If you start the downswing by a turn of the hips, as I believe the great Hogan suggested, in what many believe to be the one of the best instruction books ever written, you will be outside the shot quicker than you can say Jack Robinsin, ie out to in. If Iam wrong my apoligies to the late Mr Hogan, I believe the golfing world was too scared to ask him for clarification.
If I have got this correct , you are not suggesting that, ie a slight move towards the target of the of your internals is all that is required just prior to completion of the back swing to get the downswing underway, the hips will then turn automatically.
In fact is this really any different from moving the hips towards the target a small amount as I don’t think you can move one without the other.
comment please.
In conclusion I would take this opportunity of wishing you all a very merry xmas and good golfing in the new year.
Regards,
Eddie Court
The above e mail is incorrect, it shouls be
ejcourt@tiscali.co.uk
Hi Tracy,
Thank you for the analyses (I think thats the plural…LOL). I had been watching that video for a while and you really have answered a lot of my questions. I especially like the obsevation of the knees tweaking in. That makes so much sense to get the weight right. This has really helped with the transition too. I was really trying to keep my arms up high during what I thought was my transition but it seems that the transition actually continues as the arms begin to fall which I think was part of my problem in understanding the transition. I realize now that things need to be broken down but, as in all other parts of the swing there is no clear delineation of the separate aspects of the swing. There is a good deal of overlap, which also now makes sense to me. One thing does start another but, there is nothing to say that any particular has to end in order for the next to begin. Anyway, sorry for the babble!! simply, Thanks!!!
Danny
Tiger’s swing is pure exhilaration ! Your analysis is really remarkable !
Thanks.
I THINK ITS BEST TO KEEP ANALYSIS TO THE BAREST MINIMUM. INITIATE WITH ARMS WITH NO WRIST BREAK TILL HALF WAY AND HEAD STILL BEHIND THE BALL. START DOWNSWING BY MOVING LEFT LEG TOWARDS THE TARGET. REST WILL FALL IN PLACE.
Great analysis! Great job! Thanks!
P.S. I did love reading some of the feedback comments specially when Mr Eddie Court talked about this and mixed golfers with actors as he mentioned Jack Nicholson as a golfer. Jack Nicholson the actor???
Hi, I am finding the swing analysis very interesting and also hearing everyones’ input. I put some time to Jim’s thought of stretching the target side mid-section to facilitate the weight moving into the left foot before release, and that seems to work well, also I learnt a good bit about loading the right leg from Paul’s video. Now - if I can get both working together I might finally start to see some decent progress and get myself moving on down the hcp again. Thanks to Tracey and Kory for their excellent input and best wishes to all - Tim
Superb analysis. Two thumbs way up!!! This is by far the best instructional information I have come across. Your explanation of the swing is clear and precise and you also give great cause -n- effect information which is very instrumental to amateurs. I feel like I owe you six hundred bucks for a months worth of private lessons. I’m tempted to keep this link from my playing partners, but it would be almost like cheating. Not to mention someone passed it along to me… Thanks a bunch.
I had a good session on the range this morning working on Golf Swing Control and just thought I would mention that where in a previous post I said that Jim’s idea of stretching the target side mid setion to get weight into the left foot had worked well for me, I am now definitely of the opinion that Tracey has it bang-on (no surprise there) when he talks of turning the mid section into the left foot prior to release of the shoulders. I was finally able to get this working today and found that the advantage is that it builds up extra torque, whereas Jim’s idea got the weight there for me but without the extra torque.
I finally feel like I am getting what Golf Swing Control is about now especially the feel and picturing of the weight build-up in the feet. This is more than a year after first reading the manual, so for anyone struggling to make it work, just keep at it !
Tim (8 hcp)
Excellent analysis of the golf swing. I have watched a lot of videos on the golf swing but this was the best analysis I have ever watched. I learned more in this 25 minute review than I have in the past while spending hours watching others try to explain “the golf swing”. I picked up several pointers that I intend to work on during my next practice session.
Thanks
Can you do a swing analysis on Tiger’s short irons? Maybe like a 9 iron, pitching wedge, etc.
Tracy
Excellent analysis of Tiger’s swing. Well executed shot and very well described by yourself. I guess that the mechanincs of the body will put the smaller body parts in the right place, if we get the big ones right! Thanks for the great insight.
Don, London, UK
its winter here but these are the best instructions that I have ever seen. Thank you. Now all I need is summer
I thought this so good, I forwarded it to over a dozen golfers
Tracy,
Excellent analysis. You even went on to how you control the whole swing by pictures. When you have spent years trying to figure things out & find a way like this you are very excited as you feel like a totally new person with as much opportunity in your future that you are willing to work for. If KM RAO reads this please go back and watch the video again. I don’t want to start any drama only help you. By your comment above, my interpretation says you don’t really have it. The chest moves the connected arms in the backswing and the slight turn of the stomach or backing of the hips with the sensation of squishing a bug controls the transition. Again only trying to help please don’t take offense.
For anyone reading this I have moved and at times had to spend a little time away from my golf swing. I pick it right back up immediately where I left off on a matter of 10 minutes at the most. It is the attention to detail that makes Tracy different from everyone else. Thank you for all of your hard work Kory & Tracy. God Bless & have a terrific new year. I look forward to the new products you are working on.
Matt
Hi Tracy,
This is to express my great appreciation to your analysis of Tiger Woods’ swing. It really put an end to my search of how to be consistent with my golf hitting. Last December 30, 2007, I joined a tournament in Baguio and to surprised I shot 2 over in the very demanding course of Baguio Country Club here in Baguio City, Philippines. And to think that I have not played the course in over a year since I last played it.
Great! A lot of golfers will really be benefited by your analysis. Mabuhay!
Flor Fajilan
Tracy and Kory,
Thank you both very much for sharing this. It’s really great and is so well presented in the analysis of Tiger’s swing. It will definitely benefit me and the countless others who will gain access to this blog.
Cheers.
Larry Quah
Too verbose but extremely interesting. Need to compact the explanation a lot as the picture tells it very well. The mechanics are, without doubt, the way to go but getting them consistent shot after shot is Tigers great advantage.
I can try to emulate the swing but I doubt many people can come close however the principles are all there and many thanks for the great superb demonstration.
Mal,
Your point is exactly why Golf Swing Control was created. Given all of the physical techniques that are covered in Tiger’s analysis, it would take years using normal practice methods to get them all. However, using the key control points of balance and visualization, golfers are finding that Tiger’s swing isn’t all that difficult to emulate.
The hardest transition that golfers have to make using Golf Swing Control is to adjust there mindset from one of observe and repeat to one of understanding the origin(cause and effect) and working from there. Once they make that change, the golf swing becomes child’s play.
I thought the video was brilliant in the step by step detailed explanation of every position and movement (and not moving). It was certainly the way to compare against ones own efforts and copy in slow motion to get the feel, move off non working procedures and built up. I have been moving outside of the original upsidedown V which has resulted in club not connecting with ball at the correct angle. Thank you for sending this to me.
Tracy,
This is a very interesting step by step explanation. As a week end golfer, it is impossible for me to follow every step correctly, but i just follow the principle of the swing, and surprising me, i hit the ball longer and more accurate. I hit 40 easily now.
Regards,
Cipa (from Indonesia)
I began hitting balls in February 2007 but actually started playing on a course from June 17, 2007. This analysis on Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia is the best illustration I have ever seen. As such, I have been enlightened on many aspects and good qualities that could be emulated. However, I would have loved to see a side profile of Tiger Woods’ swing, similar to that of Sergio Garcia. Could such be provided?
Harry
Tracy,
This is so helpful! Not only in my teaching, especially those players who are “information starved”, but to my own golf swing as well. I play in several Chapter and Section events each season and have always struggled with the “early release” trying to hit the golf ball from the top, or with the clubface.
This video and you brilliant explanation have helped me “open my eyes” to what I have been doing wrong for many years.
Cannot wait to see the snow melt here in Ohio so I can get out to the range and work on this. When our members see me hitting it 30 yards further and shooting sub-par rounds!
The most helpful thing I get from this is how easy it is to turn your abs to start the downswing…so many have said “bump the hip toward the target” We both know that creates the disasterous “slide”.
Thank You So Much!
Cody W. Morse
PGA Professional
Northern Ohio Section
Was able to watch only about the first 8:30 (or one-third) of the video. Would love to see the rest. Thanks.
The best I’ve seen. I have 2 or 3 cd’s on the swing, and I can throw them away thank you come on summer.
A great learning experience. Thank you for the ‘Tiger’ lesson, it will help me a great deal.
Best wishes from Ireland.
Ian
Excellent! I have been wanting to see an analysis of Tiger’s swing ever since he turned pro and now that I have, I know what I need to work on in order to at least help me improve my own swing.
Mental game and warm-up stretching is also important to achieving your target swing. It should probably be mentioned that Tiger’s mental focus and physical training are in top form as well and contribute greatly to his abilities.
Thanks again for a superior video analysis of the best player in the game today.
Al Hughes
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Josh,
In terms of the X-factor, unfortunately, I was a student of that discipline at the time that it first came out, back when instruction was either in books or VHS.
The premise behind the instruction is just as you say and it is sound. But the method of obtaining (in other words, the HOW) is what took its toll on so many golfers. The idea was to keep the hips still and turn the shoulders as far as possible. During the backswing, that move can over-torque the lower back and does not allow the target side hip to find the proper position for the transition.
The basic premise of the X-factor is essential for distance, and it can be obtained without injury, if the X-factor is obtained be creating the torque during the transition instead. In Golf Swing Control, I show golfers how to create the X-factor without the risk of injury.
Al,
Tiger’s advantage is in fact, his mental focus. His is far above most golfers because his focus is consciously tied to the feedback his body gives him. In most golfers their focus is more subconscious and therefore not as accurate or reliable.
In Golf Swing Control, the first step towards Tiger-focus is learning how to connect with and use balance feedback in the body. The proper use of balance feedback is crucial for accurate visualization, which is the basis of Tiger-focus.
Any golfer who wishes to achieve tiger’s level of focus must first master the use of dynamic balance feedback. Golf Swing Control is the only golf instruction course in the world that teaches golfers this crucial skill.
Tiger’s latest winning streak is a result of the final step of this process finally alling into place. It hit him during the British Open at Carnoustie in 2007 and he has been using it since (see January Golf Digest). Now his practice sessions after a round happen mentally off of the golf course rather than by hitting balls at the range.
With Golf Swing Control, the fastest gains are usually made use practice routines that don’t involve hitting balls at the range. It’s the same process Tiger uses now.
Al,
This was the first CLEAR analysis of a truly awsome swing that I have seen. You explained the many and varied elements with great simplicity and clarity and in so doing gave me a number of checkpoints to observe and concentrate on in the future. Many thanks.
Great video!
I’ve always had a natural, fluid swing, but over the years I’ve experienced trouble with transition, but watching your video gave me the sense that for the first time I really think I mentally figured something new. Can’t wait to get to the course!
This is what a golf instruction videos should be!
I hope to see many more.
Thanks!
Patrick Forbes
http://igolfvideos.com
The left elbow is not pointed at the left hip.It is pointed 45 degrees left of target.Would you explain more on this.
Do the hands need to be off the inner thigh on iron shots?
i finally figured out why i was so steep picking it up with arms with no turn the club will open and turn with the body (chest and arms) what do you think about hogan talking about pockets of elbows pointing to the sky he didnt look like he did it and he also looked flatter than tiger tigre keeps the club on the same angle as the club was at address amazing .one more thing tracy does tiger set his wrists a little or does it look that way seems as best way is to make the turn set the wrists
excellent position teaching, got many good things I just never thought of. THANKS!
GREAT Tiger video AND HOW YOU BREAK IT DOWN NOW I KNOW WHAT I HAVE BEEN DOIND I HAVE BEEN ALL HANDS GOING OUT NOW TO WORK ON IT AND TRUNE THE SHOULDS FIRST THANKS
Really enjoyed the analysis. The swing looks so very harmonious and controlled. Your brought into focus a lot of details and associated the swing faults one makes with the resulting outcomes which makes your analysis invaluable.
Golfer from bangalore India….
Thanks.
–madhavi–
Exceptional insights into the mechanics of an exceptional athlete….truly poetry in motion paired with analysis from an equally gifted instructor. Motivation to make the CORRECT changes and elevate my game!
Tracy,
I “meet” you on Scribd a couple months ago…
Wow… you’ve created a wealth of golf instruction here with this detailed analysis of Tiger’s swing, and the resulting comments.
This is “Must-See”… and absorb, apply, and practice stuff for every serious golfer.
Bravo!
Walt
Thank you for doing such a detailed homework. You are the first person I have ever heard of who knows and shows how the transition works. Eye opener. Thank you again.
This is a great analysis of Tiger’s swing!!!! Everything in his swing seems to be consistant with what you say in your book and DVD.
About five years ago I attended a one day golf academy at a famous Hawaii resort. The instructor tried to teach me to transition from back swing to down swing by “step on the gas” with my left foot. I couldn’t “get it”; it just never felt right. Trying has ruined my swing for about three years (more on that later). I have since read three things: 1) Hogan talked about starting transition by turning the hips (practicing that has really helped, but is not the best swing thought), 2) An LPGA star (can’t remember who, but perhaps Julie Inkster) said she starts transition by simply tightening the stomach muscles, 3) Tiger recently wrote that his swing thought to start the transition is a “slight bump of the left hip toward the target.”
I think your analysis puts it together correctly. Starting the transition with the core (tightening the stretched stomach muscles) causes the hip to “bump” left and to begin to turn.
Everyone senses this action slightly differently, hence the myriad explanations of the feeling. But, I am learning that you cannot “step of the gas” with the left foot, unless you first tighten the stomach, move the left hip left, turn the hips slightly, THEN shift weight to left side (”step on the gas” or “squash the bug”).
I shot the lowest round of my life (80) — the day BEFORE my Hawaiian golf academy. I did that by focusing on staying “connected.” Trying to “step on the gas” got me disconnected. As I am coming to better understand transition, I am starting to achieve good weight shift while staying connected and keeping good balance. I am getting close to breaking 80. It has been a struggle to overcome some less than ideal instruction.
Hello Tracy,
Thank You, Thank You and Thank You So Much!!! You answered so many questions for me in that analysis of Tiger’s Swing that I feel because of you, ” I just struck Gold”!!
The way you described the transition, Well, that is really a Big Wow for me. The Light Bulb is really burning Bright. Now I get it!!!
I am such a Tiger fan and sincerely feel we are blessed just to observe his amazing game.
I read his book “How I Play Golf” and I advanced my game. Now with your analysis, I feel I will reach the goals that I have set for myself this year!!
I will continue to work on every point you made and improve on the ones I already knew. Thank you for reinforcing in my mind what parts of my swing is correct and what parts I can improve and how to do that!!
This is going to be a terrific year of GOLF
Respectfully
Bonnie
This is a great analysis of Tiger’s Swing. Thanks for your thoughts, which were right on. I do believe in the thoughts of visual balance in your mind as you play. I have only played one round in the last four months, but I do make time for weekly swing sessions. I have come to rely on visualizing a shot during my weekly sessions. I also am aware of my body during the swing. I took those same swing thoughts and balance to the course. I had so much fun that day. I do believe the game is played between your ears. I want to read more about your visual balance thoughts.
Thanks again,
Peter
The explanation and visual confirmation of where Tiger’s release point (where everything in his downswing was complete), was out in front of the ball finally made a lot of sense.
Obviously, his club was at maximum acceleration when it contacted the ball since his head was still behind the ball.
Now I have a new mental picture of the delay.
Thanks for this exceptional video and comments.
Will, Oklahoma
Beautiful analysis - major issues identified.
this video was well explained ,not only in how he does this but why he does this and what will happen if the sequence is not followed,which most teachers I find will not be able to tell you(either because they dont know or dont want you to know because they sell more lessons then).not many people are built to swing like Tiger or strong enough but it pays dividends to see how it should be done for that little extra zing and power on the ball flight.i enjoyed other videos on the setup on this sight and am learning why i push the ball all the time even though setup is not bad otherwise(lefthanded golfer)
I never realized how much of Ben Hogan’s swing tiger has incorporated. It’s amazing that Ben was able to get so much right without the aid of high-speed photography. From his set up, knees in, upper arms melted to his torso, elbows pointing at his hips - to his limited hip turn and full shoulder turn - to starting the swing from the ground up - and his amazing lag - Ben had it right - and Tiger does it better than anyone - including Ben.
Amazing. If I can learn only one or two points of many in the video, my game will improve
tracy, thanks for posting this video- whom am i to say. 12 handicap– just nice — i stopped the video, took notes and i have tried to adapt many of these things to my swing– still practicing of course— one big question that may help me and alot of other 60 year old golfers. where can i make adjustments because of lack of flexability? thanks, john
Tracy,
As a highly trained, nationally ranked PGA Teaching Professional, I would suggest that although some of your video analysis is insightful, much of what you are speaking of is not correct at all. Your transition most certainly does NOT begin with your abs! Although they are engaged in the process and delivery of the club into the ball, they certainly do not initiate the downswing movement as you have stated.
I understand that you feel you are helping many golfers and I believe you have a keen eye for video detail, but please do yourself and this blog a favor by becoming more informed on topics such as the transition. Centre of mass, centre of pressure, gravity and sheer forces are utilized together in allowing a golfer to make a powerful and highly repeatable downswing.
Please check out the following link by world renowned Biomechanical Engineer, Chris Welch who has worked with multiple tour players, MLB teams, Olympic cyclists in creating peak performance using patented 3D technology.
(http://welch-e.com/welch-e/webinars.asp?content=webinars)
and bio at http://www.welch-e.com/chris_welch_bio.pdf
Although I applaud you in your efforts to put yourself out there and climb onto your soapbox and preach to the masses, it is important that you have tested science and not just opinion to back you up.
Good luck.
“Todd”
To the guy above………The average golfer doesn’t want to hear about science or what an engineer has studied over the last several years. They want easy to understand solutions to a better golf swing. That’s the problem with most PGA teaching pro’s. You never speak in a language the average person can understand, and are more interested in your rate per hour than actually helping others really improve.
That’s outstanding … would love to see a similar analysis of Tiger swinging with an iron to point out the differences.
Excellent. This video analysis gave me a few key set up, and swing thoughts that have made big difference. More consistancy, and yardage. Felt awkward at first (especially the knees) but hey, it really works, and works well. Thanks
As a kean golf analyst I would love to see the complete video but, on repeated attempts, it always stops about 10 minutes in, just after the X-factor comments.
Can you help?
Great video and analysis!11
I have two questions.
1. Does Tiger use a strong grip,neutral or weak?
2. Does have a slight squat in the downswing as they say many great players do?
Thanks!!
Gordon Rector
awsome article keep up the good work.
great video I only hope that I’ll live long enough to do the same thing. Thanks again
I believe you have said it all about Tiger’s swing. Nothing more need be said. Interesting to note: As great as he is he still needs consultations with his swing coach from time to time. No one is exempt from needing the experienced eyes of a good golf coach….. that is if one wants to get better and lower golf scores.
Just to thank you so much for helping us to become a better golfer
Tracy,
Good analysis…. For the rest of you…. WHOA!!!!!! First off - TW benches 250 , does a gazillion variation of crunches/sit-ups, stretches for a gazillion hours to get to what you see! So, before the first warm day shows up and y’all go out thar’ and hurt yourselves, start working the “core” (by the way for the miss guided - the “core” consist of all major muscle group that keep you erect - quads, butt, lower/upper back and not just the mid-section).
On the swing: Where did the ball go on this take? It looks like he lost this to the left. If you check - there is a slight “collapse” just before impact with the left arm… or is that due to the lighting? Also, is the right hand slightly comming over or is that the camera angle?
Mahalo… I’m reading Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons for the gazillion time. I’m recovering from hip replacement (5.5 Hndcp-after 1 year) the panel is still out on the “component” break down of the swing. After one year of re-habilitation, balance seems to be the tying link - I didn’t know you have “balance-receptor” to keep you up-right!
John,
As flexibility decreases, first I would recommend looking into a stretching program, as staying limber also helps overall health. As far as the swing, older golfers find that lifting the front heel in a rolling type of move allows more turn. Just picking up the heel is dangerous is you keep too much weight under the front of that foot. Instead rolling the foot in some will insure that you are turning during the backswing around the proper hip pivot. This move should be gradual as a sudden move up or down can cause other issues.
Rudi,
Thanks for the input. Very good advise for the average golfer.
Todd,
I imagine you are working with Chris Welch. I appreciate the links to his webinars. If you look closely, his research does in fact support my point. Just like Chris says, during the swing, the core fires first. I may have stated it as a move, and firing is probably a better term because the movement is very small and the purpose is to initiate the pelvis, but the core does fire first.
In a more practical sense, it’s easy to use your own body for the research. Get a heavy club like the momentus and swing it and feel the muscle that fire. Try to deliberately make the movements without the involvement of the core and you will feel a major disconnect. The core is the where the first action of the “Kinetic Link” is applied.
Slowing down Tiger’s video, it’s hard not to see that the very first movement that can be identified is the movement of his core.
I suggest that anyone interested go to the webinars and view them. They are very informative and Chris has very good exercises to promote proper swing movement.
Gordon,
The strength of the grip is individual, but I believe that with Tiger’s latest swing change his grip is neutral. Golf Magazine April 08 points this out. His squat is not as severe as during his older swings. One thing about the squat; It is a result of the combination of both intention and control of the downswing. Trying to make the squat could hurt your swing. That is one of the perils of simply watching video and trying to copy what you see.
After viewing this video several times it looks to me like Tiger’s swing is a great example of what is described in Hogan’s golf lessons on power golf. Thank you for this as no instructor has ever been able to explain this in terms I could understand before. Now I have a reason to use all of those drills I have ben given and possibly get more benefit from them. What I think has been occurring is when I use one drill I was not staying in position from the previous drill which was essentially causing me to make different moves from one drill to the other which prevents me from putting the swing together.
Good video on learning how pro-golfers play and things like that. I hope this video spreads to the learning groups and the ameteaur players.
Tracy, Great Analysis although at my age (63) I need to see the swing of older players with less flexability and where they stop the back swing and where they begin the weight transfer. Ed
Great analysis, very informative in helping one develope proper swing, thanks!
Two questions.
1. How much does each knee bend in the swing, back and down?
2. How close to the body are the elbows in the swing, back and down?
Great video and I appreciate your analysis.
RJ Foley
First let me heartfully thank you for helping me start to understand the pure mechanics involved with the swing. Last year a friend of mine inherited a set of old golf clubs from his grandfather and was going to throw them away, so i asked if he wouldn’t mind giving them to me, seemed like a waste to throw away. Old is better than nothing, so at 49 I get the urge to learn this rediculously humbling game. As dumb luck would have it I ordered a hundred used golf balls from the cheap used golf ball site and and got added to this mailing list, i dont have the money to regularly golf and since a work accident that messed up my knee’s I dont think i couldl walk a course anyhow. But I hit the ball’s in to the back woods, and get as many back as I can HE HE ( it’s good therapy, i dont have to hurry up finding them, it also has a built in kind of penalty system for not hitting the ball straight.) It still feels good though, when I hit that one good crack, its addictiing to try and do it again.
So again thank you very much for sharing your insights with us!
Fantastic explanation of a great golf swing. Almost too much to think about.
Watching this video I did for the first time think of what a good idea it would be to take my video camera to the driving range and record myself. Compare my mistakes to someone doing it correctly.
Such a simple idea but I never thought of it before. Do you have a service to review peoples videos? I’ll go check your main site.
I got a link to this site a week ago and reviewed the “Tiger” video. For the first time in twenty years of hacking I have finally found a system worth putting into practice. I went out and hit one bucket of balls on thursday, played nine holes on Saturday, and hit another bucket today. I am simply amazed with the results. The balance gets me centered over the ball and establishes the correct distance from the ball, the tilt gets rid of the need to move over to the right, and sway as I have all of my golfing life. The back swing following the triangle moving the chest stays perfectly on plane and I come through the ball with a finish that I would never have thought possible. Out of 40 or 50 drivers I hit today 90 percent of them were straight and long (for me). What awesome results! Thanks Tracy, I will buy the DVD’s when my seasonal employment improves; but just the balance video and the 3 video critiques are a fantastic start. It can only get better from here.
Tracy,
Just received your backswing video today. Last night I was watching the Golf Channel, Learning from the Pros with Fred Couples! I’d like ti know how important is it to have your right elbow parallel to the ground at the top of your full swing? I recall an early instruction - “waiter” - get the elbow up (right angle)as if you were a waiter carrying a tray of food, drinks etc. Can you explain how this factors in the swing for me?
Suppose the elbow is not up but pointing down, what effects does all of this play on the full swing????Subsequently, I also noticed how Fred’s left elbow is also parallel to the ground when he finishes and he looks like a well oiled machine in balance throughout his entire swing. But please elaborate on the position of the right elbow and it’s importance for me, currently I feel more natural with my right elbow pointing down, closer to my body; the relationship of the triangle stays intact that way for me too. Perhaps, I am not flexible enough to have my elbow up like Fred as I have a much more muscular frame???
After working on this for a month I can tell you it has helped me. It has helped me to remove pre-swing thoughts and trying to think my way through the shot. Now I focus on a good setup position then swing in balance. My shot is more accurate with a little more distance. Now if I can only learn to stop the ball on the green . . ..
Thank you again
This is a great instructional analysis of Tiger’s swing. I keep it in my favorites and watch it everyday. Definitely it will help me on my swing.
Thank you. Good job !
José Quevedo.-
Best twenty minutes I have ever spent on golf instruction. THANKS!
Wrote to Tracy outlining my problem shots and he replied that his analysis of Tiger’s swing will help me. I’ve watched it again and can see exactly what he’s referring too. Will try this next time I play and see if it helps. Will leave another comment again.Thanks for taking the time to reply to my email Tracy.
Tim,
The best position for accuracy and control with the right elbow is in fact facing down. If you watch the pros who allow it to go up, they must return the elbow to point down as part of their downswing. That’s just an extra move that gives more room for mistakes.
Tracy
Tracy,
I love the way you point out the small details of Tiger’s swing. I have heard many great golfers of the past talk about “hitting the ball with their stomachs,” and I can now see what they are talking about thanks to you. Over the years, I have been anything from a 5 handicap, 10 years ago, to a 23 handicap, right now. After listening to you, I believe part of my decline is related to the fact that starting my downswing from the ground up has led to my habit of collapsing my right side and hitting most of my shots fat, especially the wedges and short irons. Will starting my transition with my abs keep my right side higher and eliminate this tendancy of hitting earth before ball, or is there some other sinister force at work that leads to a nice drive and an approach that come up woefully sort no matter how many extra clubs I take? Help me, please. I am at the end of my golfing rope and cannot see any light at the end of the tunnel.
Hi and thank you for a great analyze. A lot of great shows and when i go back to my own teaching there are a lot of siilarities. The only thing i have to opose are the comments regarding the x-factor. n the books from Mc Lean and we used them in Europe in the PGA. There he states that the hips move to we are speaking of the standard where the hips move 45 and the shoulders 90. And the bigger the gap the larger x-factor. It never states that the hips shall not move.
Other wise i like to receive your mails
Beril Garpenholt
PGA Director of Golf
Antigua Golf Resort, Guatemala
Position of arms in relation to the chest (close) throughout the swing is very helpful - Had a real tendency to play over top in down swing - This has helped enormously - Thanks
Thanks for this video on Tiger’s swing !
One of the best dissections I’ve seen.
I disagreee with the downswing thought, but it is overall an analysis which should be paid attention to.
It would be helpful to view Tiger’s setup downrange. Most amateurs fail to flex the knees enough and/or get balanced on the balls and heels of their feet.
Dear Swing Doctor,
Great analysis ! I want to hear more about the footwork in terms of what’s really happening in the feet while the weight moves on…
Thank you !
Pulling the club to the ball creates a pull from the top. What great golfers do is keep the club handle pointed at the ball during the downswing. The body is doing the work of moving the club. It is an intention, not an action.
As far as weight distribution, the key is the overall balance of the body. The weight could feel centered while the muscles in different parts the body are working against each other in an attempt to keep the golfer from falling down. In that case, as soon as movement starts into the backswing, the muscles will be redirected in an effort to find a centered AND BALANCED position; an action which will take away from the golfer’s ability to strike the ball. In the automated portion of the body, balance always comes first, which is why balance is so important.
If you start in balance and move in balance, the body will fight to keep you in balance, actually assisting your golf swing. Balance isn’t just weight, but the equal work of opposing muscle groups in the body. If opposing muscle groups work equally, they can both add to the power of the golf swing, but when they are fighting each other, they take away power.
Tracy
True balance during the setup and backswing includes balancing the golf club, which is how the club gets placed on the correct plane for your body’s build and in the best position for the downswing. Joe, if this is what you mean by the term “equalibrium”, then we are on the same page.
wow Tracy,
i dont know whether to laugh or shout.
Thanks to coach Stephen of Renegade golf for pointing me to this video.
I feel like going to the range to practice these moves BUT I have a game
tomorrow(14/06/2008) and I will go with what I’ve got.
I cannot wait till Monday to start.
Yes, I am from England(you could tell by the way I wrote the date.)
Thanks Tracy. looking forward to other materials
Jerry on June 13th, 2008
Thanks Tracy,
I can’t wait to work on the placment of the hand position at address
to prevent hitting right.(one of My problems) Just this one thing gould save
Me 4-6 strokes.
Thanks a million,
Jerry (Wiscomsin)
Hi Tracy,
Great instructions. You’ve analyzed Tiger’s swing into a science.
But what impressed me most are: these pointers:
1. Knees pinch inward.
2. Chest controls and initiates the swing.
3. Hands stay same level as long as possible in upswing.
4. Right elbow pointed in the torso.
5. Left shoulder rotates to original right shoulder’s position.
6. Then let it rip. The follow thru should take care of itself if stance is properly
shifted toward the left ( for a right handed swing).
I’m looking forward to new postings.
Best regards,
George
Hi Tracy
Your dvd’s about the swing have helpt me a lot especialy the transition part.
Great swing analysis of tigers swing it’s really fun to know you’re learning
a swing very simular to tiger’s swing. (youre pre-shot routine rulez)
I really recommend tracy’s DVD’s to everyone i can’t imagine making a swing without knowing all your great stuff.
Thanks a LOT!!!
Great video and certainly explains how important the mental attitude is to playing well
whats dynamic balance?
Dynamic balance is balance while in motion. It’s the system that automatically makes your body instantly move to keep you from falling down when you trip. This system monitors balance 24/7 and automatically corrects your balance while you are moving… whether you like it or not. It also corrects the body of a golfer that starts out of balance. Unfortunately, that correction also throws off the swing.
On the other hand, if you start in balance, Dynamic Balance will fight to keep you in balance, actually helping your golf wing.
Such an inspiring presentation! Can’t wait to get to the Driving Range and get started.
Excellent presentation re the Golf Swing as it should be.
Being a senior Golfer to obtain “Power” is not easy but have endeavoured for some time to organize a one piece take away, other videos have helped but this would be the best presentation I have seen and will no doubt be of great benifit in the future, keep up the good work. Thankyou and all the best for the future.
What a marvelous, detailed explanation of the golf swing. Seems you may be years ahead of the other teaching pros. I look forward to improving. Thanks so much for sharing!!
Well I haven’t had a chance to try these tips yet, but I thought It was a great way to show people the proper way to drive a ball. Who else better to follow then Tiger Woods. Can’t wait to get at it.
Tracy’s analysis of Tiger’s swing was groundbreaking in every aspect of golf swing information that has ever come across these bewildered and confused eyes.
When watching Tiger in the past on TV I was sure it was a sitdown move on the transition from backswing to downswing…meaning sit down on a chair and turn at the same time. But after seeing this I am enlightened about the abs making that transition instead and how the handle is moved into position first and how that all important lag for power is generated.
This all seemed to follow suit since the original backswing is made with the chest and I may have never found this out had it not been for Tracy’s explanation as Tiger was making his awe inspiring driver sing as usual.
I cannot wait to work at this new way to drive the ball and to execute the golf swing in general by staying in balance and having the proper mindset, thanks to you!
Really great instruction. I was e-mailed “The Set-Up, By Tracy video” a few days ago and just received (via e-mail, link to your blog) the “Tiger Swing Analyzed”. Very much appreciated and it is helping me in a big way. I have a much greater understanding of the geometry, fundamentals and dynamics, in order to build a more consistent and repeatable swing. The one thing that could be improved is the lighing quality in the Tiger video. Seems a bit dark. Really enjoy the break down of the swing. You guy’s comunicate the points very well. Naturally there is a lot of good instruction stuff out in the marketplace but I have to say you guy’s do a wonderful job. Good luck on all your business endeavours.
Thanks
Truly a remarkable video and explanation. I’m a single digit player - for a loooong time. So many questions answered. I’m headed to the range. Very useful. Thanks.
THANKS TRACY.GREAT VIDEO.MY AGE IS 78 AND MY PROBLEM IS GETTING THE CLUB BACK FAR ENOUGH TO GENERATE MORE POWER.WHAT EXERCISE WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR SOLVING THIS PROBLEM.BRYAN
Hi Tracy;
Great analysis of Tigers swing, just wish we were as supple as Tiger. At any rate, I wish to ask a question regarding the new swing process that a few Pro’s have changed over to. The media has deemed it to be the “Stack & Tilt”. To me it appears to be starting with 70% on your left side (as a right hander), and leaving the weight there and just turning into your back swing. Because I lack distance, (when you get old, that happens), I was wondering if that type of transition would improve one’s distance?
I would appreciate your comments.
Thanks
Denis
Thanks Tracy
Great analysis of Tiger’s wing during the analysis you pointed out my problem., That my chest and shoulders are square after inpact. This video are great and get you thinking about things to work on at the range
A patient, thorough analysis which I appreciate. Much to digest, but the segment on pinching the knees and hand position are something I can accomplish and check in my living room in our Vermont summer of endless rain. Thanks again, Chaz
Hello Mr. Reed. I frequently review your analysis Of Tiger’s Swing.
This mornig I watched your ” Golf Swing Control” video again. On the GSC video you seem to say to turn the arms, shoulders and hips together and stay connected. In Tiger’s Video you point out that his hips turn but not as much as his shoulders and arms.
Which do you want us to do?
Very well done, just saw this for the first time, and am very impressed, will forward this to my golf buddies for sure. I’m sure to watch this many times, so I can start to change my current swing, which is accurate, but my distance has suffered to the point that long par 4’s are 3 shot holes. If I get the yards I need from studying this, my gratitude will be unmeasured. Thanks in advance, John Straw
I learned more from this video than my pro who I have been going to for the past three years.
I feel every teaching pro should know and understand what is need to teach. I can assure you I have been through about 12 teaching pros and no one presents this information. It says a lot for most teaching pros.
I hope you can send us more videos like Tiger’s!
It was the best video I have every viewed!
Tracy,
This is really helpful information. I viewed the analysis this past Friday together with a friend, which was extremely helpful, as we discussed different aspects of the analysis.
We put the concepts into practice the next day, and both of us shot the best golf of our lives! My bad slice all but disappeared, and I was able to use my driver again, with great results!
The best advice was the idea to use weight transfer. We knew what that meant, just didnt know how to do it correctly.
Thanks for making us better golfers. Your methods are fantastic. For me, the sky is the limit. I can visualize turning into a scratch golfer or better, using these techniques.
Tom
This has been an extremely useful analysis, I’ve watch it at least once a week since I received it. I passed along a couple of tips to a friend a little more than 2 months ago. . .his GHIN index has dropped 25% since then.
Any chance that we will ever see a similar analysis of Aaron Baddeley or Mike Weir?
Invaluable piece of constructive golf instruction.
Thank you, I look forward to any future tips you are prepared to share.
Ron
Tracey,
I finally understand what is meant by release and hitting the ball with the handle. Great lesson.
wow this video was powerful!!!! i’ve been playing for 5 months and had a problem hitting the ball off the tee. i was going right with a bad slice to the point everyone was in the positin to duck and get out of the way. i took pointers from this video went out to the range and praticed it and literally shaved 20 strokes from my game without even perfecting the instruction. i now shoot in the high 80’s and actually enjoy a roud of golf.
I just retired in March and though I would like to start golfing, I took a few lessons and this was the BEST instuction video I have seen. I learned more from this video than any instructor. THANKS!
Your video of tiger is great ,your analysis was easy to follow as you explained each step clearly and what it had to do with the complete swing.
My major problem is that I am not built like Tiger. I am 5′-9″ and weigh 200lbs and have a very short neck, so when I bring the club back I have trouble keeping my left arm straight and my left shoulder hits my chin which lifts my head so I lose sight of the ball. I have been told to just bring the club back to the point before my shoulder lifts my head. I do this but I do not generate the power I need for the distance I want. What do you suggest, or will your book help with this issue.
Thanks, Mickee
Great description of the transfer of power!
I watched very intently and I could see the great form that Tiger has. You pointed out a few good things for me to work on.
I have to say…..I hope it works because I am getting on with age and I still stink.
Thank you,
Jerry
Very informative. A lot of ” Muscle Memory” which somehow has excaped me at 75 years. But I am still holding a 12 handicap and these tips always help. Thanks.
Hi exellent swing from Tiger. I have enjoyed watching but I have a problem My back swing if very short only bring it back to just above my waist. What can I do so I get a full swing? Is it just confidence or is there a answer that will help my practice swing is a lot fuller.
Thank You for sharing this video and your expert analysis. Everything you have pointed out makes perfect sence. Most golfers are not as flexable and in the shape that Tiger Woods is in , as this is his job.
It would be nice to have drills or training aids so the average golfer can become more consistant, add extra lenght, gain more distance. As we all get older ,it is harder to acheive all the things that make one a complete player as flexability is a major factor.
Would it be possible for you to show on video in future clips ,tips on how to acheive the main factors you have pointed out in this video.
This was an excellent presentation which you explained very clearly. I am looking forward on getting out to the course and try some of these tips.
Thank You,
Jack Bryant
Regarding Tigers transition, please explain what you mean regarding using ones abs? Do you mean tighten them as you start down?
Best Regards,
George
Tracy,
Love your analysis! Tiger is my favorite golfer to watch probably for a lot of the reasons you point out about his swing. It’s so controlled yet so powerful! I particularly like your tip about how to get the power from the wrists on the downswing - something I’ve had to work on. Your explanation about how one should pull the handle down and turn the wrists on impact is great. Thanks for this video of Tiger. It’s superb!
Golfing regards,
Mark
Thanks Tracey. Golfing 4 years down to 24. Discovered if I leave trailing foot flat it keeps me behind the ball and good results. But I notice that Tiger does not, but some pros do. Probably losing distance but nice accuracy. Also, not forcing to horizontal w the shaft, stopping at vertical. What do you think? Thanks!
The Tiger Woods vidio is the best instruction lesson I have ever experienced.
I have tryed it on the golf range and it has inproved my ball striking consistency
100%. I can not thank you enough for your help.
Len
I was disappointed in the video. The first 6-7 minutes, while Tiger was in initial address position, the picture was black on black… you could see face, arms, a white glove and a little bit of the shaft down near the clubhead. You could tell nothing about the grip. He talked about the shoulder, hips and chest but those where just black with no highlights to tell anything.
I waited about an hour or a little more, and had 50% of the video downloaded. It would take about another hour or so to get the other half downloaded. I terminated at this point.
Tracy,
Just fantastic.
I will watch it over and over, take notes and work at it on the points that apply to my swing.
I cannot wait to put in practice.
Thank you
Hi Tracey,
Thanks for the swing analysis of Tiger, it identified some areas of my swing that I can really work on this winter. I have had a problem in recent months transferring my weight correctly. That explanation of the transition phase should help me a lot . Great video keep up the great work,
regards,
Pat Carey.
Enjoyed the analysis of the swing, I think more because it fell into line with everything that I have been learning. I have been through program with Paul Wilson and am pleased to see that the swing analysis followed such accurate thought rather than personal preference.
Consistent swing is only going to happen if you can repeat the process time after time without thinking about it.
For me it is coil from the top and uncoil from the bottom and let the ball get in the way.
Thanks for taking your precious time to do this video.
Thanks Tracey.
Excellent.
I do have a question.
I noticed that the ball is closer to Tigers left toe.
Will this position of the ball have anything to do with the power in your drive?
Thanks.
I have enjoyed the entire series as posted. However, just watched the “WANT MORE POWER IN YOUR GOLF SWING” video, and have to take issue with the transition move. In the TIGERS EDGE video, the first move, as explained, is to move the belly first, then hips. Makes sense. In “more power” all he says is that it’s just a “little move”……but from where? If you get an amateur golfer looking at this video and he sees a guy doing “a little move”, but can’t tell if it’s from the right foot driving forward, right hip rotating, left heel coming down, left hip rotating, belly moving towards target, etc…then the amateur golfer is going through the yips while at address!
Again, marvelous videos. I have instructed golf for 30 years, and just find that precision is utmost. Keep up the good work. And yes, if I could do it better, I should be making them myself. Video of Tiger is artwork. Best ever instructional video ever.
Just fantastic.
I will watch it over and over, take notes and work at it on the points that apply to my swing.
I cannot wait to put in practice.
Thank you
THERE’S NOTHING I ENJOY MORE, IN GOLF, THAN WATCHING TIGER SWING. NO ONE CAN SWING LIKE TIGER. LET ME REPEAT THAT….. NO ONE CAN SWING LIKE TIGER. OUT OF ALL THE HUNDREDS OF PROS ON THE PGA TOUR, THERE ARE MANY BEAUTIFUL SWINGS OUT THERE, MANY ARE SIMILAR TO THE WAY TIGER SWINGS…. BUT AGAIN, NO ONE SWINGS LIKE TIGER. THE BEST THING IN THE WORLD THAT HAPPENED TO ME CONCERNING MY GOLF GAME, WAS FINDING
“MY SWING”. CAN YOU IMAGINE IF JIM F. OR DALY OR BOBBY OR HAL OR ARNOLD OR MOE OR EVEN CHRISTIE TRIED TO SWING LIKE TIGER (just to mention a few)? THEY PROBABLY WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN ON THE TOUR. THERE ARE SOME UGLY SWINGS OUT THERE, AND SOME GO AGAINST THE “NORM” OF WHAT SOME CONSIDER GREAT GOLF SWINGS. BUT FINDING OUT WHAT WORKS FOR YOUR BODY, AND YOUR BUILD, AND YOUR SPEED, AND YOUR FLEXIBILITY, AND YOUR THINKING, IS WHAT TIGER CALLS HAVING YOUR “OWN” SWING. IF I WALKED LIKE VIJAY…. I WOULD PROBABLY BE TIRED BEFORE THE 9TH HOLE BECAUSE HE’S SO LAX AND SILKY SMOOTHE. AND IF I TRIED TO MOVE AS QUICK AS ARNIE, I COULD ONLY GET 9 IN, AND QUIT BEFORE I PULLED A MUSCLE. HEY, I FOUND OUT WHAT WORKS FOR ME, AND MY GAME IS FINALLY EXCELLING. A GOOD TEACHER WILL TEACH YOU “A SWING”, BUT A GREAT TEACHER WILL OBSERVE YOU…. AND TEACH YOU “YOUR SWING. OR………YOU CAN SPEND THE REST OF YOUR LIFE, LIKE THOSE WHO WANTED TO BE LIKE “MIKE”, FINDING OUT THERE’S ONLY ONE MIKE. BE YOU!!
You have made an exellent analisys of a exellent swing.
My comment is: can you give us the pleasure of watching the same swing from the back view?….that would be the a great oportunity to view another great example of work and success. Thank you.
Tracy, Thanks for the video. We’ve come along way since Mike Austin in his skeleton leotards and all.
Very informative video analysis and I have glained a fair bit from it. However,not detracting from the exercise, I feel that many players could never copy a large part of Tiger’s swing. Keeping the straight leading arm and turning the shoulders back past the ball for power, being two of them. The biggest advantage of this analysis is that it forms a perfect foundation guide for the young, beginning golfer to work with and strive towards. Great insight is shown throughout the video. Keeping the swing relatively simple is another great advantage. Thanks again.
what a great video and commentry
I belive that tiger’s swing is extremely hard on his left knee because he sets up with his left foot almost perpendicular to his intended line of ball flight. In Hogan’s great book, “Five lessons on the fundamentals of golf” he says to turn the left foot towards the target a quarter of a turn” I am going to watch very carefully to see if tiger will make this change in his setup to relieve some of the extreme pressure his swing, as shown in your video, puts on his left knee. It will perhaps put some limitation on how far he can turn in his back swing but should relieve some stress on his left knee and thus prolong his career which we all want to see. Thanks for the great video.
Ivan Henry
An excellent analysis of the Tiger swing with the driver. It would be interesting to compare and contrast the movement patterns of a mid to short iron(6 or 7) Tiger swing. Are you aware if this has been done by any other instructor or if this is a project that you may undertake in the near future. Do you agree that the learning and implementation of generic swing changes are more easily achieved with a shorter iron and has greater application in our overall game.
This is the first time I have seen this(what appears to be a great video)and will
be watching it many more times,thank you very much for well put together video.
I shall be watching out for any other bit’s of information you may have,thank you
again john.
The best, most understandable swing analysis I may have ever seen. I can’t wait to work on the shoulder turns, back and forward, as presented. Thanks a bunch.
Excellent video.Fully explains to me just what the swing is all about.My last Golf Pro told me none of these things.I will definitely be saving this video for future reference.
Wonderful swing, though the knees must be stressed or the fitness regime may have been a problem. I agree on the Johnny Miller comments.
this is what I have been looking for and will give it a shot Thanks
very good analysis I enjoy knowing the reason why. you have helped my drive consistance considerably. when do we start on the short game mine is non existant. thanks for all the help, Jack
THAT WAS THE ABSOLUTE BEST ANNYLSIS OF A GOLF SWING I EVER SEEN THANKS FOR THE INFO IT WORKS I TRIED THE SET UP YESTERDAY AND HAD THE BEST PRACTICE SESSION I EVER HAD AFTER WATCHING VIDEOS ONE TIME (AWESOME)
The video was really good ,though difficult to see because of the background. I have a query. Does Tiger rotate his right elbow externally from the end of the takeaway till the time the club shaft is parallel to the ground? you may have mentioned it in your commentary but i can access the video only without the audio. thanks and regards. Mukund.
Tracy-I watch this video and listen to you and never get tired of it. My question is how does the swing with the driver differ from the irons? Do you not want the hands coming thru before the club head, keeping the right wrist cocked thru impact with the irons?? I would love to see a similar video with your tutorial as Tiger hits with a mid-iron?? Thanks, Deming
Thank you very much for the best description of as near a perfect swing that I have ever heard. One question: Is the set-up for a fairway wood the same?
Great golf instructions!!
One problem that can be improve. The picture is too dark.
Very hard to follow and visualize on what the person
is talking about.
What a great analysis of the fundamentals of a golf swing.
I only wished Tiger was shown in contrast color clothes compared to the background, so that we don’t miss subtle movements of his body parts during his swing. This is one of the best swing analysis I have ever seen. Thank you.
I THOUGHT YOUR DISCRIPTION WAS EXCELLENT.
I HAVE A QUESTION, I AM 76 YRS OLD.
LAST YEAR I HAD SURGERY AND HAD TWO
RODS AND 14 SCREW PUT IN MY BACK.
I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE TURNING
EXPECIALLY ON THE FINISH.
DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGETIONS, AT ONE
TIME I HAD A 3 HC, NOW I CAN ONLY GET
150 YDS WITH MY DRIVER.
Hi Tracy;
Great analysis of the Worlds best. Have to agree with some of the viewers, the video can stand some enhancements. The difficulty, for me at least, is that the downswing, although explained in detail takes less than a half of a second. So, I can’t relate to holding the release until the last possible moment, and probably neither can most of your readers. You also mentioned, that if the downswing is done properly, the release of the club is automatic. Sorry, I have a problem with that too. I am constantly (in my head at least) saying to myself, (rotate the club) so I can close or square the clubface at impact. Not critisizing you Terry, just trying to find some answers so I can play better without thinking. Any Instructors out there that can make you “Feel” the swing? Only one I know is Dean Reinsmuth, and he’s too damn far away.
Regards,
Denis
Complete!
As an incurable Golf Addict I have watched innumerable videos This stands out as one of the very best tho I am 78 and cant repeat the move you so beautifully describe it is something we can all learn from and use as many parts as this old body will allow
thanks a millions!!! i live in china and all the video a just fantastic for me because i can not get good web side from here!! i bean praiticing over two every days almost, i want to try for the pro’s soon! Thank again!
Tracy,
I don’t necessarily agree with all of your comments. Some are good, (the beginning) and some are incorrect, in my honest opinion which is why students should consult a PGA Professional for proper instruction.
Example: Tiger is not turning his stomach in the initial transition….he is pulling and dropping the club in the slot and is upper torso is unwinding as a result. You fail to show the hands moving from the top of the swing as you point out his stomach is moving first to prove your theory. This is not his initial move. The only body part attached to the golf club is the hands and they in fact must start down in sequence with the left hip turning, NOT the lower body leading. This is very detrimental to instructing students as most golfers cannot catch up or find the proper sequence. The hands, arms and shoulders start the takeaway…(correct) AND then the hands, arms and shoulders should move down from the top at the same time as the hips start to unwind….NOT separately, this will more often than not cause disconnection or the hips to move faster and turn out of the way too quickly and usually in the average joe golfer cause them to swing over the top as their shoulders try and turn to the left with their hips.
I’ve been teaching for 18 years and never taught anyone to lead/drive with their hips. This fallacy only leads to them getting more stuck behind it or very flippy hands, casting and severe manipulation of the club face at or toward impact. The hands control the club face, always have and always will. In fact I’ve had to un-teach this motion so they can find the proper sequence and get more leverage and not wave at the ball, causing them to swipe across it for the most part.
The power in the golf swing is created from the top of swing (transition) to the downswing by pulling the butt of the shaft to get into the proper position/slot. This creates more leverage and lag or bowing of the shaft which is more of a catapult effect for a different analogy. The club head weighs more than the grip and you can see this lag in Tiger’s downswing. The power does not occur after impact as you explain. This is torque going through the ball as a result of effectively creating that leverage from the top of swing to transition into the downswing.
Much your explanation is very convoluted and over complicated for the average golfer to understand, which will only confuse them, not necessarily make them understand how the body is suppose to work.
Regards,
Jason Helman, CPGA (Class A)
PGA Tour Instructor
&
Director of Instruction
Wyndance G.C.
Hi Tracy:
And to think all that happens in about a second……
Loved the expressions “That’s when the crying starts” and “Squash the bug”!
I have observed that Golfers and non Golfers both love to watch Tiger hit a golf ball…..
You have described in great detail why that is……..
Tiger’s swing….when he’s playing his A Game, is simply close to perfection…..
And even my Granmother will stop what’s she’s doing to watch it.
Great stuff, indeed!
Best Regards,
Clay McCaskey
Richmond, Virginia
I am not a golf instructor. But I am a student of the swing. For the past 20 years I’ve taken instruction (some good, some bad) read books (some good, some bad) watched videos (some good, some bad) and practiced as much as any non-professional I know. I’ve played a lot of golf (some good, some very bad) but not nearly as much as I would like to.
There are two schools of thought on the backswing. Turning the shoulders, and restraining the hips around a fixed spine. Or turning the hips AND shoulders around a fixed spine. I can name many players who subscribe to both methods and play at the highest levels of the game. If the right foot and knee is held in a forward press both methods will get you to the top of your back swing with the hip turn limited to 45 degrees. (Personally I prefer to turn my hips to control the backswing because it allows me to turn my shoulders farther and easier which is not near as easy as it once was now that I’m 53) Also it makes it more natural for me to start my downswing by simply turning my hips back toward the target.
I have known only one other instructor (working at a driving range) who taught starting the golf swing by pulling on the club. I cannot believe that a PGA Tour instructor would advocate starting the swing by pulling down on the club with your hands and arms. (makes me wonder what it takes to become a PGA Tour instructor) Though I have done this myself most of my golfing career and seen many hackers making the same frustrating move. All the power you stored up by winding your shoulders and hips will dissipate long before you get to the ball. Typically what happens is that your arms will crash into your hips causing the club to release way to soon resulting in weak shots to the right. If you rely on the muscles of the hands and arms to control the golf swing you will never play consistent golf. However if you will use the big muscles of the legs, hips and shoulders to control the golf swing and the hands to maintain the club face you can swing the club the same way every time.
Do this. Look in any golf magazine, web site or video. Find all the pictures that you can of a golf professional in the impact position. I defy you to find one picture where the players hips are not wide open to the swing path when he makes contact with the ball. The legs and hips must start the swing sequence and everything else follows. Of course the hands move just as soon as the swing starts, they are being pulled by the legs, hips and shoulders.
Do this experiment for yourself. Starting from the top of your backswing try restraining your hips and just swing your arms. You will make a pretty ugly swing because your hips and shoulders will be in the way but it can be done. The lesson learned is that the arms do not do a very good job of pushing the body around. Now start again at the start of your backwing and restrain your shoulders and arms. Swing the club by only using your legs to turn your hips all the way through until your weight is on your left side. You will find that it will be impossible to stop your shoulders or arms from turning all the way through into a complete follow through position. In fact if you maintained proper posture, spine angle and kept the club face square (by holding your hands in the address position and letting them naturally cock and uncock) you will have made a very powerful golf swing.
I guess only Tiger knows exactly what he does to start his golf swing but I believe that Tracy’s analysis, for the most part, is spot on. The downswing starts with the turning of the hips just like Hogan, Nichlaus and a host of others have taught. Yes, his swing sequence description is very complex. But he points out that all the moves have to be performed subconciously. The only thing (in my opinion) that Tracy did wrong was over simplify the golf swing. I would have pointed out how solid Tiger maintained his spine angle. This can be verified by watching how still his head stays throughout the swing. (the dark clothing and backdrop actually aid in seeing this) There is no up and down or side to side (swaying) movement which is the bane of most amateurs. He also didn’t mention all of the fundamentals that must be learned even before starting the swing. Fundamentals such as posture, alignment, relaxation, rythym, grip, ball position. I am not familiar with Tracy’s Ultimate Golf System but I’m sure if you check into the program all of that and more will be covered. And most importantly he left out the part of how much practice is involved. Hogan, in his 5 lessons book, recommended 1/2 hour of practice every day. This will make the amateur a better golfer but is no where near the amount of practice that the professional puts in. And who has even 1/2 an hour a day every day any way?
My advice to the amateur golfer who wants to improve his game is to get serious about his practice. Do some research there are a lot of good golf instructors and instruction material available. Commit yourself to learning exactly what is involved in making a good repeatable golf swing. But regardless of the golf method you subscribe to the best golf instructor you will ever find is yourself. For years my idea of practice was a quick bucket of balls at the start of and through the season. But mostly I just played. I did not improve until I found a complete program of fundamentals and got a net to practice into at home. I would work on each fundamental until I felt like I could do it without concious thought and then move on to the next one. I also believe strongly in video technology. I did not realize a lot of the errors I had in my swing until I saw them on a digital camera.
Regards,
Steve Stiles
Scratch-golfer wanna-be
and aspiring Senior player
Jason,
I appreciate your in-depth explanation of the golf swing. I’m not explaining what should happen during the golf swing or what I or anyone else thinks should happen during the golf swing… I’m just showing how the body works during the golf swing from the standpoint of biomechanics and kinesthetics. It’s not theory, it’s science.
What I’m saying is simple. The gap between what is seen on video versus what happens by the laws of body movement is the crux of the confusion that golfers encounter when they read all of the various theories on the golf swing.
As far as the body turn getting a golfer “stuck” during the downswing, I’ve seen this problem often myself and it is easily controlled by controlling the hip turn speed through proper weight pressure in the feet. The problem isn’t in the speed of the arms, it’s in the speed and control of the hips.
Regards,
Tracy
Tracy
Steve, (aspiring golfer)
I’m glad you’re not an instructor but are “student” of the swing. Taking, reading and watching has certainly led to your over complication from the sounds of it. While everything can be debated to death the fact is that as an instructor one has to be able to apply a correct fix for the player at hand. There is no one philosophy or theory that works for every individual based on many issues, athletic ability, flexibility, injuries etc.
In teaching thousands of lessons over the past 18 years while you were studying the swing I have found many different ways for students to understand and “feel” and proper sequence. This involves the initial movement of the club coming down first versus the hips driving out in front as this is all they hear on TV when the “BEST” players in the world are in slow motion on your TV on Saturday or Sunday while you sit on the couch studying. This is why I advocate it, because average joe, goes out there trying to replicate what they heard or saw and they get very messed up as they over do it and fire the hips way too early, get stuck, flip the hands or block it and continue along the route they’re on as they can’t flip their hands fast enough. If they lead with the club and chase with the body they will have a better opportunity at finding the right sequence as the hips and shoulders will unwind in a better sequence and they will actually have something they can repeat. I’m very aware of where the hips are at impact for every magazine pic. I also for the most part when working with students work from the ground up. I do not have a one dimensional philosophy, nor will I try and “sell” you a theory/infomercial, like stack and scramble.
I could argue many more of your comments but it’s not worth the lengthy discussion. If you would like to book a lesson and become that scratch golfer you wanna be let me know. I’m in the Toronto area. I’d be happy to give you 1 or 2 things to work on that you can attempt to make permanent. Video is sometimes detrimental as generally people look for what they’re doing wrong versus what they’re doing right. Focus more on what you do right and fine tune what you think your weakness is and your swing should become more repeatable. As for becoming scratch if you’re close to that level already, work less on your swing and more on your short game….I know, no brainer there. Best of luck.
Regards,
Jason
Tracy,
Thanks for your comments.
Very true, some of the issues you point out are very exact, not sure on that stomach one though….I’ve actually seen a couple of more of Tiger’s models (from the ASTAR system) where he “almost” stacks it onto the left side as he pulls/drops the club down. Probably not anymore due to this knee recovery though.
I would 100% agree about the speed of the hips. Many everage joes always try and copy what they see and hear on TV and over do it.
I would also agree with the confusion that golfers encounter when trying to put a theory into a swing. I would say that for the most part and on average I always have to improve weight shift and proper body rotation, so I guess I’m working on the science part of it as well. Sorry for my poor wording on calling it a theory.
Regards,
Jason
Steve, (final thoughts)
In short what the “best” players in the world do or can accomplish in the golf swing doesn’t always apply to you or the average golfer and attempting to do them from what you read or watch can hurt your swing more than benefit from it. Most of the time the player has no where near the talent level to pull the body motion off. I think you failed to read and fully understand my comments. I agree with the majority of what Tracy has analyzed but have issues with only the things I pointed out.
Based on your theory or defiance: Try this. Without moving the hands or arms in the downswing….drive with your hips and make the club head get to the ball. I guarantee no one in the world can do it without pulling the butt of the shaft toward the ball. The club will remain at the top of swing.
I’d prove it to you another way but I will be away as one of my professionals who I have been working with since his high school days (7 years now) has already won a US Open local qualifier and is onto Sectionals and I will be flying out West then hopefully Beth Page the following week. If so, see you on the grounds. I will be the one wearing the instructor credentials, in case you were wondering what it takes to become one. : )
Regards,
Jason
I think what is convoluted is the whole “pull/drop the club down” phrase. First of, you can either pull something or drop it. Doing both at the same isn’t possible. Second, what exactly are you pulling with? It isn’t the hands. They can grip, pronate and supenate but in and of themselves they cannot pull. The pulling has to come from the core muscles (legs, back, abs, chest). Just try to pull something with both hands (like your couch a few inches in your living room or anything with a little weight to it to somewhat simulate the forces in a golf swing) other than gripping the object the hands do nothing.
Another PGA professional term that needs to go is “proper weight shift”. Anytime you move your body your weight will shift, usually to keep you upright. It is not a conscious action. Trying to make it a conscious action is probably detrimental to a golf swing. The part of the brain that monitors and maintains balance operates at about 50x faster than the cortex (where all the “thinking” occurs). I don’t know anything about Tracy’s system (I just found the Tiger analysis yesterday on google looking for ways to make my swing less steep and kick my ballflight down a notch or two). But the emphasis on balance or dynamic balance makes too much sense to dismiss out of hand or downplay because of credentials that were established over seventy years ago with little evoloution (given the number of practitioners), especially when the video analysis uses language that is easily understood. Throwing out terms like center of mass, center of pressure & sheer forces (when they are probably understood with a limited scope) are fascinating when plotted out but have little to no meaning on a golf course or practice range.
I’m no PGA professional but have paid a few. Today at the range ending my backswing and getting the shaft parallel in the downswing by focusing on my obliques and abs worked. Initiating the swing with my chest worked. The slight pinching of the legs (almost like you are trying to stretch out the ground, if that makes sense to you) worked. I also ended up with a very flat left wrist at the top. It was very uncomfortable and forced to cup it (I usually have alot of wrist cup) at the top. Which all led to a (drumroll please…) less steep swing and a slightly lower ball flight…yay for me!
Although its only been one day I want to thank you Tracy for your insightful if unorthodox video analysis.
Now i’ll go check out the rest of this website.
Kevin
Kevin,
just to clarify. pulling and dropping. Again, the hands are the only unit of the body physically attached to the club. If you pull them or the club downwards they drop or get into the “slot” which is basically just before the club gets parallel to the ground. This is where you will see the lag or shaft bowed in the downswing. It’s more of an analogy or different term to use based on a students ability to understand or feel this position.
Weight shift is essential in maintaining balance, thus the pinching of the knees which you accomplished. Yay! I often get students to do this drill as they often get outside their back foot and lose their center, as they usually move their sternum sideways versus rotating and making a turn. This keeps their core centered as they load into their back instep. Weight shift MUST stay, not go! Most tour players do not load very much weight. I remember in college getting hooked up to a system that measures the load in your backswing with insoles that go inside your shoes and I loaded 70% onto my back foot and thought that was great until the guy doing the analysis explained to me that the best players in the world at the time only loaded on average about 59%, but the transition was much higher to the finish.
I certainly agree that Tracy’s analysis of the bigger muscles working in the swing and correct sequence are essential to power but there is also more than just that to create power. Thanks again Tracy for the professional scientific analysis. I have watched it again and listened a little closer in trying to grasp what you’re really trying to say.
About that flat/bowed wrist. Hank has always been a plane teacher. Hopefully, Tiger eliminates that and returns to his previous position, I think he will play much better with the older version. It looks like it’s very uncomfortable even for him at this point, going back to the TPC event, as his swing is getting a little flatter and the last thing he needs to do is get more stuck by having the club further behind him. I think he would be better off a little more up right by reverting back to his 2007 season. Not to second guess one of the top teachers in the world but all of this is of course in my humble honest opinion in what I see, whether I’m on the right track or not who knows? I guess we’ll all see as the season goes on.
Regards,
Jason
Jason,
I think we are on the same page as for what weight shift means. I believe it would be much clearer if that term was removed and the focus is on the turn. The first lesson I got ( I think I was 16ish maybe) the pro preached evangelically about weight shift. As a result I developed a pretty nasty lateral movement for years. I think the term implies a conscious movement that is unnecessary. If he would have said “turn your upper body pivoting on your right leg but stay in the same physical space that you started in” at least to me would have made more sense and been clearer about what needs to happen. I agree that weight shift is important but it is a byproduct of a good turn. Your weight is going to shift anytime you move whether you want it to happen or not. That is the non pro advice I give when asked.
As for the flat/bowed wrist I didn’t video my last session but I’m pretty sure it was just flat. A few years ago I tried to do the bowed wrist thing and ended up injuring my left wrist (I think because my swing was so steep, big deep divots). We’ll see how this flatter wrist position goes. I really like the medium to medium high ball flight and shallow divots, but it was only one day and who knows how it will be tomorrow.
Kevin
For three years I’ve been trying to understand how all of these swing elements really fit together and how they happen. This 25 minute video taught me more than the dozens of hours I’ve spent with various books and articles.
Hopefully I will be able to build a useful visualization that will improve my own swing. At least I have a mental model of what I want to happen.
Thanks,
Vern
What impressed me in this wonderful analysis is that there is a straight line starting at the ball, continuing up along the inside of the left leg and then along the tilted spine through the top of his head. This line is maintained through the back swing, transition and down swing until ball contact is made and is only lost during the follow through.
This is a great video and I will recommend it to all amateurs like myself who love the sport and want to get better.
Thank you so much !
Ron
Tracy, thanks for a very informative lesson about the golf swing. Even though all of us can’t swing like Tiger, at least we can take some definite advice that can help us with our swings. The one thing I noticed is how quiet his hands are on the take-a-way. I have always cocked my wrists probably way too soon. Looks to me like his wrists only fold a little bit on the take-a-way. On the downswing, it looks like he pulls down & that creates a little wrist unfolding & then he sort of whips the hands through just before impact. All of this happens & he stays behind the ball. Its like he hits the ball with his entire body acting in unison with the club. I’m hoping I can implement this move into my swing & hopefully this will make me swing more with my body than with my hands & arms. Thanks for the information. Wayne.
I have been using your manual and dvds along with my PGA professional. I have great progress and increased my confidence level. Thanks!
Do you have thoughts to share on the short game .
According to the video of Tiger’s setup it looks like his left elbow is pointing toward the target and not at his left hip? How should it be pointing?
The 25 minute video taught me more things than all the lessons i have had. I liked the part about weight shift and hip movement.
Thankyou Tracy. I throughly undesrtand now what the X factor is. This instruction is a keeper. I wish I knew how to download this video. Any suggestion?
Your explanation is a lesson by itself on the progress of the golf swing.
Comparing your lesson on the golf swing with Ben Hogan’s “Five Lessons”, you’ll notice a lot of similarities. Specially when you describe the down swing movement of the body. This lesson is a gem.
Congratulations Professor Tracy.
just seen the video and your analysis i need more !! my problem has always been transfer of weight to my left side during the down swing I tend to leave it on my right hence fat or thin shots please help! ps I am a 18 handicap in the UK
None could have explained the set up and the importance of the stace better.Excellent instruction material
Wow.Thanks for sharing that. This is a great analysis that gives me much to consider…..Like do I buy the “system”? are the videos sharper and cleaner full screen on a TV than they are here when viewed small?
This is just the type of cause and effect demonstration that I learn best from. Very interesting.
Hi Glock,
The videos are professional quality and look great full-screen on a TV. You get everything spelled out in detail and broken into chapters so it’s easy to practice the different routines and drills.
One of Tracy’s main goals is to give golfers the “cause and effect” information so you can correct and improve your own swing. We’ve worked hard to make that available.
Hope that helps,
Kory Basaraba
Publisher
Tracy Reed’s
Golf Swing Control.
this is the best I have seen in my lifetime, I am 74. I heard where a instructor said that tiger slides a little to get extrta power, I do not belive it because you would have so. My son ask me what was the 1st move on the down swing, told him to go to this vidio, that takes care of that.
That is a revealing video, however, the problem is that we are not as flexible as Tiger or other touring pros. I would say that 99% of amateur golfers cannot even come close to getting in the positions that Tiger gets in during his swing. So the question is how do we incorporate what is in this video with our physical limitations?
Great review. Thank you very much.
How many reputations does it take to commit this swing to memory?
Tracy,
I am confused by the connection between body and left arm.
It seems that Tiger’s left arm is not connected to his chest at the top of his backswing. Is that true?
If so, how he would control the timing and thereby the direction?
Body connection would transfer the power and also help the timing control.
Look forward to hearing from you soon
Thanks
Don
Tremendous instructions but what about a golfer like me—74 years old and 250#a few aches and pains but still about a 10 handicap. I would love to increase my iron striking abilities. From my 19 degree hybred to my 7 iron, I am never where I need to be to get on the green in regulation.
The most logical and helpful analysis I have ever seen. I wish I had these insights provided 50 years ago. Thanks and well done!
Great information and very well-presented. This will definitely improve my swing and future games. I will keep on practicing this.
Very good analysis, I’ve been searched for something like this long agoes. I have watch others vedio but nothings like this. I will go try, if I get back in here that means that I did fixed myself. I am sure everyone watch this vedio appreciate it.
Dear Tracy:
You have really put it all together… I have read the book, and watched and re-watched and re-watched… It really makes sense, and IT WORKS…….
I haven’t broken 90 in 15 or 20 years, since I hurt my back. However with your swing mechanics, I can play, not hurt myself, and brake 90…. WOW… and I only play 4 or 5 times a year… Well I used to only play that much, I will now start to play a lot more, because I can hit the fairway 90-95% or the time….
Thanks for giving the game back to me…
Alan
What can I say , The Truth Sets You Free . Great Analysis , I also can’t wait to Hit My next Drive . Thank You and God Bless You & Your Family
Luis
DO YOU HAVE ANY PREFERRED DRILLS (OR ANY DRILLS) CONTAINED IN YOUR GOLF SWING CONTROL??????????????
Hi Tracy I want to ask something:
Waht hapen if the right elbow in the top backswing look like in the position of the beisbol swing?
Thanks for your help
Hi Tracey
Following your analysis of Tiger´s swing I put 40 or so yards on my drives now generally 250 -265 yards. With a bit more exercise more would be possible, not too bad for a 65 year old having had a back operation a couple of years ago..
I generally drive a draw but sometimes this develops into a hook.
With the driver setup, the hands are not just behind the ball but also behind the driver´s head which closes the club face. Last year I was using a Cleveland driver which proved to have a 2.5° closed face now swopped for a Bobby Jones Workshop Driver about 0.5° closed. Somewhere I read that Tiger´s driver 0.5° or maybe it was 1.5° open, which would better fit the address with hands behind the driver´s head.
I guess the answer is to go to a clubfitter and get fitted for a driver.
John
Terry,
Any chance you could do a swing analysis on David Toms?
Great video! I do have a question though, at the top of the swing, do you think Tiger is consciously pulling his left shoulder out from under his chin while keeping his hands and arm passive yet still up high? I don’t understand how he keeps his shoulders closed yet still has this shoulder separation, is it a function of his shoulders and hips starting to turn? When I get to the top I try to get this separation and my arms automatically start falling, so how does he keep them at the top while holding the shoulder separation? Any help would be great! Thanks.
Silas
I am 62 years old and have read countless instructional books and magazines on golf. This was the best explanation of what happens during the swing that I have ever seen. Now, I at least understand what is supposed to happen in the swing.
Thanks!
Bill
Very good video and analysis. Grainy but good.
My only difference in the interpretation is the suggestion the abdomen initiates transition. I have learned from many sources a subtle bump of the lead hip begins the swing. Suggesting the abdomen leads risks students moving their abdomen instead of the hip at transition, when the upper body stays relatively quiet compared to the hips and falling arms.
Hi
I took up golf at 70 (not having the time until then) and this year will be 83 years old
What a fantastic swing analysis - wish I’d seen something like that when I first took up golf
I just know it’s going to improve my game - and has given me a new lease of life - golf wise
Thanks a million
Ed Kean - England
Great instruction video and tutorial, well done Tracy and Ultimate Golf…I enjoyed watching and learning more on the swing in this instruction than anything else before hand, another thing is that seeing is believing, and believing in your game is the best thing for confidence…Thankyou
iT LOOKS TO ME THAT THE SHAFT OF THE CLUB IS BEHIND THE BALL. i WAS TAUGHT THAT THE HANDS AND THE SHAFT ATADDRESS NEEDED TO BE SLIGHTLY AHEAD OF THE BALL WHICH HELPS TOSQUARE THE CLUB AT IMPACT.
[…] is available on “Youtube”, there is an even better analysis done by Tracy Reed on the Ultimate Golf Blog. On this video (Not available on youtube) Tracy takes 18 minutes to dissect one swing in minute […]
[…] was released in 2008. (That video completely turned my game around) On his Blog he has an 18 minute slow motion critique of Tiger Woods golf swing; which is the best explanation of the complete process of a golf swing […]
every time i watch this video im just blown away by the depth of the analysis.
i know that in the past ive asked for a similar study of ben hogan’s swing but tracy said there weren’t enough videos available to be able to do it.
ive recently scanned youtube and it seems that the number of hogan videos has exploded.
so once again im asking for an analysis of the best ball striker ever by the best analyst. im sure every tracy fan would watch it over and over and that the lessons learned about hogan’s swing and balance would be huge!
thanks for indulging me,
bill