Stay connected

FOR an efficient, powerful golf swing, the key is for the body, arms, hands and club to stay ‘connected’ through the backswing and downswing. If one part moves back and through without the other, this leads to inconsistent shots and a distinct loss of power.

Try this drill to improve your connection:
* Pick up a football or basketball and take your normal set-up position, focusing on a good posture.
* Maintaining a good posture, turn away from the target holding the ball between your hands and keeping the left arm straight (for right-handed golfers).
* Your thumbs should point straight up to the sky after making your shoulder turn.
* For the forward movement, turn your upper torso and hips towards the target.
* Try to release the ball with straight arms at the right time, so it flies straight to your target.

Practice the movement with the ball and when you can consistently release the ball on line with good speed, try the same movement with a short iron. Your consistency and distance should improve very quickly.

If you would like to know more about improving your golf game, book a lesson with a Royal Golf Club PGA teaching professional by calling 17750777.

Golf lessons for youngsters

Introduce your children to golf this New Year by signing them up for the next six-week-long Junior Golf Programme at the Royal Golf Club.

They’ll gain strength, speed, agility and balance, while learning the fundamentals of golf, all in a fun and engaging atmosphere and all for BD60 per child!

The new programme starts on January 9 and 10 and is open to all youngsters, not just club members. For details and to sign up, contact 17750777.