Most golf pros will tell you that a perfect golf swing does not exist. Since each person has a different height, weight, physique and musculature, there isn’t really anyway that everyone could swing the club to get the same result. There is, however, a proper golf swing.

Watch professional golfers on television, and you’ll notice that amongst all the differences, you will see a core of similarities. They have all start out with a mastery of the basics-their golf grip, their aim, and their setup. They also can repeat their swing over and over again, just the same way. These are the keys to a proper golf swing.

A golf swing has three basic components. The backswing, the downswing, and the finish must all work together to create the best possible complete swing. Each one must be a smooth repetitive motion and at the right pace to create a rhythm that can be duplicated numerous times.

You should control your backswing with your hands, not your arms. Do not pick up the club with your hands. Instead, bring it back with both your hands and arms in a single motion. Allow your hips and shoulders to twist naturally as you move through the backswing. You should be comfortable, and not working too hard. Your hands should begin to set at waist level and be completely set at the top of your swing. Avoid overswinging.

Your focus should be on controlling your maximum speed on the downswing. This means you need to take your time during the backswing and get set up properly. Then as you start the downswing, concentrate on pulling with your left arm. This should help your body work as an entire, single unit which will result in improved consistency.

Unless you manage to finish well, you won’t succeed in achieving a proper golf swing, even if you have already mastered a good backswing and downswing. Finish high at the end, after keeping the face of the club square for a couple of inches following the striking of the ball. This high finish is critical - you’ll get less air should your finish be too low. At the end of the swing, you should transfer your weight back in order to remain balanced.

And those are the basics. Now, get out there and practice. Make sure that you have good equipment; poorly balanced clubs or ones that are too rigid or flexible for you will make it difficult to achieve consistency. Try a brand like callaway golf clubs, or a similar high-quality company. Consistency and coordination, with the right equipment, and you’ll succeed.

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- Perry Rightmond