One of my former Florida students, CK, who lives in Baasten (Boston), called me. She had just returned from the golf course to tell me she remembered something I told her years ago, and she hit the ball beautifully. She flattened her downswing, because she remembered me suggesting the open stance requires a wide swing.

CK asked again why “wide” works so well. I explained flattening requires placing the trailing elbow earlier to guide clubhead delivery. Additionally, release point determines impact consistency. Furthermore, rotation away from address determines release point. So, simply by setting up open, the mechanisms for solid impact fall in line.

Remember, “wide” for you is not “wide” for someone else, and vice versa. Homogeneity is not recommended. In my opinion, video is the best way to determine ‘flat enough’. Then, centeredness of contact, divot depth, length, and direction take over as the guiding force of improvement throughout your bag.

The one common gauge for flattening may be keeping your leading arm at or below the trailing shoulder. Video shot from a down-the-line view reveals positions. However, Video is not needed if your intent with your ball is specific enough. Hitting it perfectly solid, demanding no curvature, and flying your ball straight at your target are specific intentions. More advanced specificity includes trajectory and spin control. But, start with contact.

John Wright – Founder
The Open Stance Academy