IT'S GOOD FOR YOUR GAME

Straight wrist, forearm: path to consistency

By T.J. Tomasi

While some good players do not use the flat front wrist (Jordan Spieth, Dustin Johnson, Fred Couples and Paul Azinger, among others), I prefer that most of my students use it, especially when I'm building a swing from scratch. Here's why:

When the front forearm and wrist are in line, it encourages the player to return the clubface to impact without undue manipulation. Consistency and the flat front wrist often travel together.

When the front wrist is cupped with the knuckles bending away from the student's

head, the clubface opens, promoting a slice. When you do the opposite and bow the wrist, all things equal, you'll fight a hook.

Intervention: You can use some tape or an Ace bandage to anchor a ruler or tongue depressor on your arm that keeps your wrist in line with the forearm. Hit five balls with non-full, half-power swings to give you the feel, then slip the ruler out and make normal swings. Keep alternating ruler in/ruler out until you get it.

Dr. T.J. Tomasi is a teaching professional in Port St. Lucie, Fla. Visit his website at tomasigolf.com.

The bow in Dustin Johnson’s lead wrist assures a power draw because the face is closed to the path at impact.

The cup in Paul Azinger’s left wrist opens the face to guard against a hook. Thus, even with a strong grip, he plays a fade — his preferred ball flight.