Golf is a game where mobility and flexibility play pivotal roles in generating power, accuracy, and consistency. Among the most critical components of the golf swing is the rotation during the backswing. When a golfer’s ability to rotate becomes limited, often due to age, injury, or other mobility issues, it can disrupt the swing mechanics and lead to undesirable shot patterns. One common consequence is the development of an out-to-in swing path, which often results in pull hooks or big slices.
The Role of Rotation in the Backswing
The key muscles involved in rotation include the core, hips, shoulders, and back. When these areas are functioning optimally, the golfer can achieve a wide arc and maintain a neutral swing path into the ball. However, when mobility is compromised—whether due to tightness in the hips, a stiff lower back, or restricted shoulder movement—the golfer’s ability to rotate fully becomes limited. Instead of completing a proper turn, the body compensates in various ways, which can significantly alter the swing path.
How Decreased Rotation Affects Swing Path
When a golfer is unable to rotate sufficiently during the backswing, several compensatory movements may occur. These movements often shift the club path in ways that lead to an out-to-in motion through the strike:
Lack of Depth in the Backswing
A restricted turn often results in the arms lifting the club instead of properly turning with the torso. This lack of depth leaves the golfer in a more vertical position at the top of the swing, often making it difficult to get the club back to the ball on an inside path.
Early Downswing Compensation
With less rotation, the golfer might instinctively start the downswing by using the upper body rather than initiating from the lower body and hips. This creates an over-the-top motion, where the club moves from outside the target line to inside the target line through impact, commonly referred to as an out-to-in swing path.
Shot Patterns Caused by an Out-to-In Path
Once the swing path has shifted to an out-to-in motion, the resulting ball flight often depends on the clubface angle at impact:
Pull Hook
If the clubface is closed at impact relative to the swing path, the result is a pull hook. The ball starts left of the target and curves even farther left. This shot is often a result of a quick release of the hands or an effort to compensate for the lack of rotation by “flipping” the wrists through impact.
Big Slice
On the other hand, if the clubface is open relative to the out-to-in path, a big slice occurs. The ball starts left but curves sharply to the right, missing the target entirely. The open face, combined with the outside swing path, imparts excessive sidespin, causing the ball to slice and generally come up short of the target
Addressing Mobility Issues
To correct an out-to-in path caused by limited rotation, it’s essential to first address one of two root causes:
Lack of Awareness
Working with a knowledgeable coach can help golfers become more aware of their movement patterns. Drills that emphasize rotation, video feedback, and mindful practice can help golfers learn to utilize their full range of motion, reducing the likelihood of developing an out-to-in path.
Flexibility / Mobility
Golfers struggling with flexibility can benefit from exercises that target hip mobility, core stability, and shoulder flexibility. Regular stretching, mobility drills, and incorporating strength training can gradually restore proper rotation and prevent compensatory swing faults.
Conclusion
Working with a golf instructor or fitness professional to identify specific mobility restrictions and developing a targeted improvement plan can significantly improve your swing path and overall performance. By regaining proper rotation, golfers can return to a more inside-to-out swing path, eliminating pull hooks and big slices, and producing more consistent, accurate shots.
Email: info@365golf.ca
Phone: 587-333-4485
