How to Improve Amateur Swing: "Practice Slowly"

'Masters Champ' Matsuyama's 'Turtle Swing' Sparks Interest, Slow Swing "The Secret to Distance and Direction Control"

'Masters Champ' Matsuyama Hideki is known for slowing down his backswing.

[Asia Economy Reporter Nowrae Noh] "If you go slowly, you improve quickly."

This is about practice swings. When standing at the driving range, there is a desire to swing hard. You take a shot with all your strength, but the result is disappointing. The swing is so fast that you cannot control your body. On the contrary, swinging slowly produces satisfying results. This is why slow is better than fast. A swing is a short and explosive movement. Generally, the average backswing takes 0.8 seconds, and the downswing takes 0.2 to 0.4 seconds.

The typical reaction time is 0.15 seconds. A fast swing means there is not much time to think. First, try a full swing at 50% speed while checking swing positions and club path. The probability of hitting the sweet spot increases. Then try hitting the ball at 75% speed. When you take shots at a slower speed, you can better understand the necessary movements during the swing. There is also the advantage of feeling changes during the swing.

If you always insist on fast speed, you won't know how the swing is completed. In fact, 'Masters champ' Matsuyama Hideki (Japan) is famous for his 'turtle swing.' He spends as long as 1.2 seconds reaching the top of his backswing. He also stays at the top for 0.2 seconds before coming down into the downswing. According to Golf.com, "It looks like he stops at the top of the backswing, but in reality, he is moving very slowly in slow motion to maximize the coil."

The more rushed you are, the more you should check the basics. Refine your grip and address first. When your mind is rushed, your posture becomes distorted. Keep your head fixed during the swing, and let your arms naturally create the path. Feel the weight of the club during the downswing. After impact, fully extend your arms. After finishing, support your weight well with your lower body. Naturally, you can catch the 'two rabbits' of distance and direction. The best way is to always swing slowly.