Curious About Pro Golfers with Over the Top Swings?

Golf Techniques
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Pro Golfers and the Over the Top Swing

The term “over the top swing” is often tossed around in golf discussions, typically associated with either a warning or a serious analysis of a player’s technique. But just how common is this swing style among professional golfers, and what does it mean for their performance on the course?

What is an Over the Top Swing?

An over the top swing occurs when a golfer’s upper body, particularly the arms and shoulders, moves ahead of the lower body during the downswing. This can often lead to shots that start left of the target for right-handed golfers or a pull slice. Notably, while some players struggle with an over the top move, others have made it part of their unique style.

Notable Players

Several professionals have utilized an over the top swing to their advantage:

  • Jim Furyk: Known for his unorthodox mechanics, Furyk’s swing path is often described with some elements of an over the top move yet remains incredibly effective, showcasing that it’s not all about perfect technique.
  • John Daly: His powerful and somewhat erratic style includes aspects of an over the top motion, proving that it can still yield great distance and excitement on the course.

Is it Common?

  • In terms of prevalence, many pros do have elements of this swing in their setup but might not rely on it exclusively. The key takeaway is that what works for one player doesn’t necessarily work for another.
  • The effectiveness highly depends on how they manage their swing’s timing and overall tempo.

Pros and Cons of an Over the Top Swing

Pros

  • Power Generation: Some players can create tremendous clubhead speed through this swing.
  • Unique Styles: Adds a level of individuality to a player’s game, making them stand out.

Cons

  • Consistency Issues: It can lead to slicing and inconsistency if not managed properly.
  • Injury Risk: The mechanics may increase the risk of injury if players don’t maintain proper form.

Conclusion

Understanding the over the top swing and how it factors into a golfer’s game can be key for aspiring players. While some professionals have mastered this technique, the focus should always remain on finding what fits your own game best. Has anyone experimented with this swing style? What have your results been like?

Join the conversation and share your thoughts or experiences!

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I’m fascinated by over the top swings! They often lead to a distinctive ball flight. I’ve noticed many pros making this work despite common critiques.

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Exactly! Furyk’s swing is so unique and effective. His success proves that technique can vary widely among pros.

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Totally! Players like Jim Furyk have made it iconic despite the critics.

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I agree with you all! But don’t you think this style can lead to inconsistent strikes?

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It can, but with practice, players like Natalie Gulbis have made it work beautifully.

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Gulbis is a great example! Her follow-through is something to admire. What about the common traits of these swings?

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From what I’ve researched, a characteristic is an exaggerated outside-to-inside swing path. This can create different shot shapes!

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For sure! And I’ve noticed that many of these golfers have an open clubface at impact too. Curious how that affects their shots.

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Yes! It creates a fade or a push, which can be useful if controlled.

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Reflecting on my own swing, I sometimes try to incorporate elements of the over the top style. It’s tricky but rewarding.

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Over the top swings can definitely add flair! But hey, we can’t all pull it off like the pros. Their timing is impeccable!

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So true! And it’s important to find what works for each of us.

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I’d love some tips on practicing this style without going completely overboard. Any suggestions?

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Simple drills with alignment sticks can help! Focus on your takeaway and follow-through.

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Great advice! I think visual learners benefit from watching swing videos too. Anyone have links to useful ones?

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I’ve watched some great breakdown videos of Bubba Watson’s swing. He uses an over the top motion but makes it look effortless!

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Right? It’s all about confidence in your technique! We should all strive for that.

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Over the top swings can create unique shapes on the ball flight. I’ve noticed it can lead to more slices if not controlled. It’s interesting to see how some professional golfers have made it work for them.

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That’s true! I think the key is in how they manage their follow-through. Some players I’ve seen use it to gain more distance despite the risks.