Illustration by Jim McQueen

"Losing" the club at the top of the backswing is one of golf's most common errors, costing the golfer both accuracy and power. The fault generally derives from loosening the fingers of the left hand, thereby allowing the clubhead to flop around like a wet noodle. Such loss of control frequently comes from swinging back so fast that the fingers aren't strong enough to secure the club as it reaches the top.

Try the following if you suspect you're a "loser":

Keep your grip on the club soft while setting up for the swing. Firm up your hands only a millisecond before you begin the backswing. It might help you to think of this firming as your swing trigger, as I do. You might also consider substituting a forward press instead of the firming, as I also do. Next, initiate your swing as smoothly and slowly as you possibly can, even to the point of visualizing a slow-motion start. Be sure, however, not to further tighten your hands as you do so--increasing grip pressure is as destructive as easing it.

Finally, don't try to consciously cock your wrists. Simply allow the ever-increasing momentum of the clubhead to hinge them reflexively.

Next Week's topic: Beware of "Flash Speed".