Why a good start is key to it all: the first couple of feet set you on the perfect track

So, the No. 1 cue is soft hands. That at least gives you a chance to make a nice flowing swing. After that, I believe the most important thing you have to worry about is the first two feet of the swing – in this case from the ball to the tee you
see behind, and very slightly inside the line to the target. If this first link in the chain is right, I can hit all of the other links very easily. But if that’s wrong, I’m lost. The secret for me is that the arms and hands move together without much in the way of wrist action.

When I get started with this one-piece move, the clubhead glides back low and slow and the rhythm of the swing is established. Let me stress, most of you grip the club too tightly. So focus on those soft hands as you take the club low and slow over this first easy checkpoint. Glide the clubhead away and you set up a chain reaction that will lead you to a good backswing. As long as the hands and arms remain relaxed, you will get the club swinging. For many, that’s the first obstacle.head

When you practise, stick a tee-peg in the
ground a couple of feet behind the ball and marginally inside the ball-to-target
line Soft hands and
relaxed arms allow
you to glide the
clubhead back over
that tee, which sets up a smooth chain reaction

Soft hands and
relaxed arms allow
you to glide the
clubhead back over
that tee, which
sets up a smooth
chain reaction