Illustration by Jim McQueen

One of the Questions I've been asked most frequently at clinics over the years is whether a golfer should pause at the top of the backswing. My answer has always been a qualified "no."

The reason nothing comes to a discernible stop in most fine swings is that the forward motion begins as a reflexive or involuntary reaction to the backward motion before it actually has been completed. See the illustration for the mechanics, noting how the release of the torque created between my upper and lower body (left) initiates the uncoiling of my hips before my wrists have completed their hinging (right).

Why, then, a qualified "no"?

Rushing the transition from backward to forward motions is just as destructive as deliberately pausing between the two. That's why one of my key swing thoughts over the years has been, "Start down no faster than you begin swinging back."

Next week's topic: Move Body Around - Not Forward - at Impact.