The idea is not to hit the ground before the ball by design. I would better describe it as making more or less level ball contact, avoiding divots, optimizing the full loft angle of the clubface. Another "key" to me is angling the left foot out toward the target and keeping it planted on the ground during the backswing. The setup routine is important. I liken it to the repetitive movements good free throw shooters employ in basketball. Many successful touring pros also have their own unique address motions. To me, Count Yogi's swing combined elements of the early Scottish pros, and also some of what is now commonly seen and accepted in today's competitive golf circuits. His finish was very similar to how Tiger Woods and Annika Sorenstam end their swings, as opposed to the high and "reverse C" follow through positions that were once the norm.

I never met or played with Count Yogi, but I was able to incorporate his ideas in my own swing simply by reading the paperback edition book, which cost me just a few bucks twenty-some years ago. Believe what you want to believe, and swing whichever way works for you. I was taught a Byron Nelson-style swing by my parents, but I prefer Yogi's. I find it simpler and feel more in control with it.

Dave Rao, who worked for Crosby, Stills & Nash and has a lifelong interest in golf stemming back to caddying as a youngster, played golf with Yogi often in the 1980s. Dave told me Yogi always scored par or better and had phenomenal short game and putting skills.