Clubface "Closing Rate"

[blehnhard]

Looking for comments (pro & con) on my 'theory' of Clubface Closing Rate.

My goal (valid or not) is to reach a point in the downswing where the clubshaft is parallel to the plane line, parallel to the ground, and clubface is vertical (toe up - this would be slightly "closed" to the plane as it does not lie on the plane). At this point my hips would be 'square', weight centered (or slightly left), right shoulder back and down(hopefully on plane).

From this point, I would want the clubface to 'close' at the same rate as the club moves down and out (i.e. for every degree the club moves, the clubface would 'close' the same degree). At impact, the clubface would be slightly 'open' as the shaft has not yet moved 90 degree (forward shaft lean), but close to 'square' at separation (as shaft reaches vertical).

This would seem to provide a very stable clubface (no quick or violent change in clubface position).

The majority of the 'closing' is accomplised by the turning of the torso (hips if you will). The remainder is subtle rotation of the left arm (not a concious (sp) effort).

Past separation, the clubface would continue to close at the same rate (degree for degree) until approx. waist high - then 'swivel' would take it to the finish.

I would rate this as more of an angled hinge than a horizontal hinge.

All comments welcome.

Thanks - Bruce

 

[EdZ]

Assuming a steady closing, sounds more like an excellent horizontal hinge. The key, IMO, to that steady closing rate is the relationship of the hands to chest (see pics of Austin with the 'flammer' training aid). One of the reasons I am a big fan of the figure 8 strap (worn down near the wrist works better IMO).

 

[dbl]

Just a few comments. I see no problem with the action you want to do, and as pointed out it's likely a horizontal hinge you are doing.

You can work from a toe up position if you choose, but imo it is not, as you said, vertical to the plane. And while you called it closed, it is really only closed compared to the situation where the FLW was on the plane.

As to that closing, do it. Start with some pitches and work up to fuller swings.

 

[blehnhard]

Using a Strong Single Action Grip, the left wrist could be on plane while the the face is in the "toe up" position. Only with the back of the left hand aligned exactly parallel with the face could the face and the left hand lie on exactly the same plane.

Using this method with short irons certainly gives the feeling of 'walloping with the pivot'.

Bruce

 

[cdog]

Exstensor Action