This story is for you if ...
• You hit inconsistent irons
• You feel more "sway" than "turn" in your backswing
• You have no idea how to start your backswing
The Problem
You hit a lot of fat and thin shots with your irons.
The Solution
Keep your right elbow below your left arm in your backswing by folding it — it's an easy move that keeps your swing on plane. If your right arm flies up above your left, you're in danger of hitting it fat or thin.
How to Do It
Start your swing by turning your belt buckle and the buttons on your shirt away from the target at the same time. Don't manipulate the club with your hands and arms at the start. Then begin folding your right elbow as if you were lifting a drink to your mouth. Folding your right elbow is critical — it allows your wrists to hinge and, contrary to what most golfers think, is the move that gets the club up in your backswing.
How to Practice It
Lay a 7-iron toe up against the edge of your bag. Stick a tee into the ground outside the very top of the grip. With the same club, take your stance with your right foot against the tee and start hitting balls. If you pivot correctly and fold your right elbow, you won't hit the bag and your impact will be solid. But if you start your backswing by pulling your arms back and not folding your right elbow, you'll hit the bag every time. Don't cheat by hinging your wrists at the very start — see how close you can come to the bag without hitting it.
