We are getting closer and closer to stripping the ball with every lesson these days. Patrick focused on my spine angle and the importance of not allowed my right side to give way. I always assumed I should “spin” or turn as much as possible with my core but when I do that, it forces my right side to collapse rather than support. Instead, I need to use very little of my lower core with the first move. Then I am to get drive with my left side with my lower right side supporting.
When doing this correctly, I feel very bent over and there is a lengthening of my right side. So much so that my right heel comes off the ground a little bit at the top of the backswing. I also feel a lengthening or pull in my entire right side as I get to the top of the backswing.
We are doing a lot of turns without the club in my hand. When doing this, I focus much more on my body turning rather than trying to get the club to the top. While right now the backswing feels shorter, I know it is more depth and allows me to get back to impact the proper way. I hit some very, very good shots during the lesson.
I am also greatly improving the chipping motion with my right side getting softer and softer at and through impact. With each lesson I feel my hands not doing as much with the practice chipping motion. The club rotates as the body drives through. Instead of driving through I need to think of a rhythmic movement of a soft right side through the ball with my right shoulder open. Fun times!
