Rick Shiels demonstrates a simple yet effective drill to improve your golf swing tempo and rhythm, helping you achieve more consistent shots.
Golfers often struggle with maintaining a smooth tempo throughout their swing, which can lead to inconsistent ball striking and lost distance. Rick Shiels, a well-known PGA professional and golf coach, shares a practical drill that focuses on rhythm and timing to help players develop a better feel for their swing.
Why Tempo Matters in Golf
Tempo is the pace at which your swing is executed, combining both the backswing and downswing in a fluid motion. A consistent tempo allows for better control and timing, which ultimately improves accuracy and distance. Many amateurs tend to rush their downswing or decelerate too early, causing mishits.
Rick Shiels’ Drill for Better Swing Rhythm
In the reel, Rick Shiels introduces a drill where you count “one-two” during your swing to establish a steady rhythm. The “one” corresponds to the backswing, and the “two” to the downswing. This counting method encourages a smooth transition and prevents rushing, which is a common issue among golfers.
He advises practicing this drill with a wedge or short iron, focusing on feeling the tempo rather than hitting the ball hard. Over time, this simple counting technique can be integrated into your full swing, leading to more consistent ball striking and improved distance control.
Integrating the Drill into Your Practice Routine
Consistency is key when working on tempo. Rick recommends incorporating the “one-two” counting drill into your warm-up or practice sessions regularly. By doing so, you train your muscle memory to maintain a balanced rhythm, which translates into better performance on the course.
Golfers who master their tempo often find it easier to handle pressure situations, as a reliable swing rhythm reduces tension and promotes confidence.