One-Plane Golf Swing Tips

In golf circles, there is often discussion of which golf swing is more effective: a one-plane or a two-plane swing. One plane advocate Jim Hardy says it's more natural swing motion and results in fewer errors because of the fewer “moving parts.” With a two plane swing, power needs to be generated more from the hands, wrists and arms than the rest of the body. In general, golfers looking for a simpler swing motion will prefer the one plane approach.

Overview

In golf circles, there is often discussion of which golf swing is more effective: a one-plane or a two-plane swing. One plane advocate Jim Hardy says it's more natural swing motion and results in fewer errors because of the fewer “moving parts.” With a two plane swing, power needs to be generated more from the hands, wrists and arms than the rest of the body. In general, golfers looking for a simpler swing motion will prefer the one plane approach.

Backswing

The key to the backswing of a one plane golf swing is to make sure that your arms are on the same plane as your shoulders at the top of the swing. For a right-handed player, the left arm will remain in contact with the chest.

The arms should also be swung around in back of the body instead of lifted in the front. The right leg should remain still and should not lean back.

Transition

Once the top of the backswing has been reached, you can begin the transition to the downswing. You should be able to move your body forward as quickly as is comfortable for you.

Because your arms and shoulders are on the same plane, you do not have to wait for them to drop down. Your entire body should move together as one unit, so there is less of a need to develop a rhythm.

Downswing

With the shoulders and arms aligned on the same plane and the left arm kept in and against the chest, you are now free to explode to the ball with as much force as you wish to generate.

If executed properly, the body will provide the power instead of the arms as your weight shifts back to the left side. The swing will feel like a natural movement instead of forced and should result in more control of the golf club.