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.)
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4 comments
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§ Steve said on : 2004-11-18 @ 10:11
Bravo....It's about time this point was made....I have said this to many male golfers....You will improve your golf game if you will copy the swings, tempo and course management skill of the LPGA players.....Check your ego before you tee off....Thanks
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§ Joe Golfer said on : 2004-11-18 @ 11:38
One fact Kiel left out when stating that Kristie averages 255 yards off the tee is that the fairways are usually backed to the consistancy of an airport runway by the time the LPGA shows up at the course. Under the conditions that most "public" course players see she would probably average in the 225-230 range.
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§ David Terry said on : 2004-11-24 @ 11:25
In response to the comment by Joe Golfer....I'm guessing you probably drive a big, jacked up Ford Excursion, right? You know what they say about men who drive big rigs!
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§ Kolef said on : 2004-11-25 @ 09:17
I've been preaching the same point for years. Rarely do the ladies look like they are trying to crush the ball. It's the opposite -- nice full backswing, nice easy downswing, boom!
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