The Importance of Being Loose

I know this will have been covered loads of times, but it bears repeating because so few people seem to take it up.

We've all heard about the need for a light grip, but most golfers still grip too tightly. I was definitely one of those. Although I had been playing pretty well, I was aware that I was really hitting the ball as opposed to swinging. As a bit of an experiment, I did start playing with a much lighter grip and, crucially, no tension in the arms, shoulders etc.

Now, the first time you stand over the ball with a driver looking to launch one, it's a bit of a challenge to maintain that light grip when you're not used to it. But, you only have to do it once to realise that you can generate great clubhead speed - AND FEEL - from a light grip, relaxed arms etc.

I'm pretty sure my swing speed has increased as a result - average distances suggest this, although ball striking is also better. One big difference I feel is the actual whip of the club through the ball and a natural release. This gives a tremendous feeling of power. I'm also now swinging as opposed to hitting.

Basically, seems to me if you really relax everything, things like rotation and swing plane also start to take care of themselves. The whole process is much smoother. So, seriously, give it a try.