Tempo in golf is the speed a person swings, whether it be fast, medium, or slow. The most important aspect is to find the tempo or speed that works best for you. The speed that a person walks and talks is a good indication of their tempo. To find the best tempo for you, try swinging slowly, a little faster and quickly. Whichever is the most comfortable is the best for you.

All the Tour pros have the ability to swing every club at a consistent tempo and with great balance. Rhythm and balance are linked. Some players, like Nick Price, have faster tempos. Some, like Fred Couples, have a slower tempo. Yet all remain balanced. The key to consistency is to maintain your balance and use a smooth rhythm. If you rush your swing you will loose your balance and the end result is inconsistent contact and poor ball flight. Outstanding ball strikers are rarely off balance at impact and their rhythm is the “glue” that bonds their positions and movements.

When I have a student that struggles with tempo, I have them hit a 7 iron with a full length swing, asking them to make a smooth slow swing so the golf ball will not go over 100 yards. This drill helps the student understand truly how hard they are swinging. In the beginning I see them try to hit it the golf ball 100 yards and it ends up going much further because they do not understand how much they overswing. As they practice this drill they see the balance, rhythm, and impact to the ball improve and they are able to control the distance that the ball travels. Soon after using this drill the student will be able to find the optimal speed and rhythm his or her body is most comfortable swing the golf club.

Next Month’s Question:

Are you seeing a difference in the the number of rounds played at your
club/course? If so, have the numbers increased or decreased?

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