By correctly hinging your wrists during the backswing, you store potential energy, much like a coiled spring. This stored energy is unleashed during the downswing through wrist lag, allowing the clubhead to accelerate at just the right moment for maximum impact.
However, the wrists also play other roles in the golf swing, namely power and speed. Yes, if your wrist action is correct, you will gain more power and speed. We will walk through the role of the wrists in creating some power and how you can work on this in your own game.
A golfer must be able to control every aspect of their swing, including the wrist action during the golf swing. The wrist plays an essential role in the golf swing as it provides power and direction to the ball. Understanding how to use your wrist correctly can make all the difference in improving your golf score.
All great players have a wrist hinge in their swing, but it typically happens after the takeaways, not right at the start of the swing. During the backswing when you hinge your wrists correctly you can store energy in those wrists. That stored energy is then released when the wrists unhinge on the downswing.
There are four ways in which you can use your wrists to gain more speed. These include leveraging wrist hinge, maintaining wrist lag in the downswing, proper wrist release, and utilizing proper flexion and extension to gain power and consistency. The wrist hinge helps to create a powerful lever system with your arms and the golf club.
Why should you hinge your wrists when playing golf?
When you hinge your wrists correctly, it positions the clubface in a square position, leading to more accurate shots and a straighter ball flight. Thirdly, this technique promotes better timing and rhythm in your swing. As you hinge your wrists during the backswing, it allows for a smoother transition from the top of the swing into the downswing.
The wrists play an integral part in determining how far and straight your golf ball travels. The wrist hinge allows for maximum power to be generated throughout the actual golf stroke. Without proper use of this lever, swings would lack strength and ultimately distance.