"You play like a girl." "Thank you!"

At the 2004 U.S. Women’s Open, what struck me immediately (besides the near flawlessness of Natalie Gulbis’ legs), were the power, grace, and perfect timing of the women’s swings. From day one, I began preaching to anyone who would listen: “These are the swings that 95% of men should copy, not the swings on the PGA Tour.”

Some guys scoffed. Some, however – likely the ones most secure in their own sexuality – nodded in agreement.

If you don’t believe me, just do a little reasoning. Take Cristie Kerr, for example. The woman stands no more than 5′4″, and cannot weigh more than 115 lbs. Her average driving distance in 2003 was 255.1 yds. That went up in 2004.

Do you know how many 6′0″, 200 lb. men would love to average 255 yards off the tee, especially as straight as Kerr hits it? (And you know how many guys have embarrassed themselves in pro-ams trying to out-drive her? Get over yourselves, gentlemen.)

Now just think about that. Kerr’s clubs are shorter, her muscles are smaller, her mass is (far) less. What is it that gets her that distance? Perfect timing and efficient energy transfer. If you want to learn about tempo, about using every ounce of energy and speed you create in your swing to its fullest effect, watch the women.

Watch their swings, that is. (You can watch their legs on the putting greens.)