Filling Out a Turtle Shell

It looks like the turtle shell idea is doing better. It helps improve your early extension.

Regarding your questions. 1, I haven't heard the release timing change too often. But Jack Nicklaus did say that you can't release it too soon as long as you are on plane. So maybe what you're feeling is a good sign. 2, yes there is a connection between increased rotation and increased side bend. More rotation allows for more side bend.
Happy Golfing,
Tyler

Thanks Tyler.

My game plan is to come in & see you in person this summer for a much-needed tune-up or start of an overhaul.

In the mean time, I feel like taking a break on the early extension piece. Is there anything you would encourage me to work on in the interim, before I get some time with you in person later this summer?

Hi Ed,

Sounds like a plan.

I would probably work on the follow-through/release trying to get better extension through the ball with less of the shoulders spinning open through the release. I'd use one of these three benchmarks as my goal. Either less open shoulders at impact, or better arm extension in the follow-through, or both.

Happy Golfing,
Tyler

Reminder to self: Just do what Tyler says to do.

I worked on the cues you gave me and it's like I have a brand new swing.

Progressing from air swings to hitting a rubber tee (toe miss). This week will introduce a golf ball...

Ok Tyler, after an in-person lesson, I think I figured out how to keep the shoulders closed @ impact while letting the arms release. My issue is the hips now stay closed (hybrid swing attached). Two questions come to mind:

1) Are there any drills you would recommend for opening the hips while keeping the shoulders closed? I recall you once demonstrated a pump drill with the arms and hips that seemed to have them in sync, but I could be wrong...

2) In terms of swing theory, what does opening the hips vs. leaving them neutral @ impact do for the swing?

Hi Ed,

Catching up after a little travel.

Yes, I agree that your hips are no longer open. So it looks like the chief issue is learning to have your spine more rotated to the right and the shoulder blades more closed.

Check out this video:
https://www.golfsmartacademy.com/golf-instruction/hip-turn-spine-turn/

In terms of swing theory, opening the hips helps create speed from some of the big muscles in the hips and core. Opening the hips also allows the arms to work in a more shallow fashion which helps create more gradual change of the club through impact. Anatomically, it allows the shoulder blades and arms to have more tension and repeatability.

Happy Golfing,
Tyler