April tip of the month

The “First-Move Forward” Secret: Start the Swing Without Rushing it.

Spring golf brings a familiar problem: players feel energized, eager, and …. a little quick from the top. The result is the same across all skill levels - thin shots, pulls, and that frustrating “I swear I didn’t swing that fast” feeling.

This month’s tip solves that instantly.

The Concept: Start the Downswing With Pressure, Not Speed

Most golfers think they start the downswing with their arms. In reality, the best players begin with a small, subtle shift of pressure into the lead foot. It’s not a slide. It’s not a lunge. It’s simply a recentering move that sets up solid contact and effortless power.

When you start the downswing with pressure instead of speed, three things happen automatically.

Your arms drop into the slot
Your club shallows naturally
Your contact becomes more predicable

This is one of those rare “one move fixes three problems” concepts.

How to Feel It: The “Tap Your Lead Toe” Drill

Use this on the range or even in your living room.

Address the ball normally.
Lightly tap your lead toe up and down - just enough to feel it.
Start your backswing.
As the club reaches the top, gently press the lead toe back into the ground.
That pressure shift is your downswing starter.

You’ll feel smoother, more balanced, and more connected to the ground.

Why It Words for Seniors and Women Golfers

It prevents rushing from the top
It improves contact without requiring more speed
It builds rhythm and balance
It encourages a natural weight shift instead of a forced one

This is one of the simplest ways to add consistency without adding effort.

Try This on the Course

On your next round, pick one hole - just one - and commit to starting every full swing with the lead—toe pressure feel.
You’ll be amazed how quickly your tempo settles and your ball flight improves.