[Choi Myung-ho Quick Lesson] 4. Impact Balance "The Key is Securing Space"

Published 07 May.2020 08:30(KST)

Updated 21 Sep.2022 16:06(KST)

open/close

The Point That Determines All Aspects of a Shot, Including Distance and Direction: "Swing Freely from the Center of My Body"

KLPGA Tour star rookie Oh Kyung-eun's precise impact balance (O).

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "Securing space."

This week's topic is 'Impact Balance.' It is a very important process that determines everything about the shot, including distance and direction. The key lies in accurately contacting the ball at the center of the clubface while maintaining a stable lower body. To achieve this, both arms need enough space to hit the ball. This is to deliver 100% of the energy accumulated through the takeaway and backswing to the ball.

First, let's look at the ideal balance of both feet. It is shown in of KLPGA Tour star rookie Oh Kyung-eun (20, PNS). The left foot stands firm like a wall, while the right foot points forward and inward. However, most amateur golfers make the mistake of putting excessive weight on the back of the left foot, twisting the ankle and even causing injuries. In such cases, open the left foot slightly more toward the target direction to adopt an open stance.

It is fundamental that the clubface contacts the ball at a right angle at the moment of impact. Otherwise, the ball will start left or right. If it curves left or right during flight, it is a swing path problem. An out-to-in path causes a slice, and an in-to-out path causes a hook. Here is an effective practice method: standing with feet very close together makes excessive swings impossible, so slices or hooks cannot occur. Feel the balance vividly at this time.

The left leg steps back, making it difficult to properly hit the ball (X).

If the shot is clean but the distance is short and there is no thrilling impact feel, check whether you contacted the ball from the 'center of the body.' As shown in , if the left leg retreats backward and you rush to hit the ball, you cannot properly draw the swing arc. During impact and follow-through, this causes the wrists to loosen or changes the spin amount, negatively affecting both distance and direction. You need to swing the golf club freely to generate power.

Finally, the 'Transition.' The club should naturally follow the body's rotation (forward direction). Amateur golfers usually start with the head first. This means casting (the action of releasing the cock) is not smooth. As in , the wrists loosen, and the body's center inevitably rises. The motion transitioning from downswing through impact to follow-through is a process where the 'hip turn' is accurately executed.