INCORRECT CORRECT
MECHANICS When most people think about the mechanics of the golf swing, they typically think about wrist hinge, club path, rotation and similar fundamentals. But a good finish is just as important, as it can either support or undermine all the mechanical elements that come before it.
Although the finish happens at the end of the swing, a poor one often reflects issues that began earlier. For example, if something feels off during your backswing, your body may naturally and subconsciously try to correct it mid-swing. Other times, you might make a great backswing, but then something goes wrong on the downswing and you compensate as you go. In both cases, the typical result is an abbreviated finish and poor weight transfer— signs that mechanical breakdowns occurred somewhere along the way.
If your shots aren’ t feeling clean, here are two additional things to consider next time you practice or play:
• Maintain speed through the swing. Keep your swing speed consistent— especially after impact. This helps you finish high, with your hands near the back of your head instead of stopping short. I will often see golfers who slow down before they even reach the ball, which causes a weak or premature follow-through. Slowing down before impact means you’ re not maximizing the full power of your golf swing.
• Finish with full rotation and weight transfer. Just like with momentum, make sure to fully rotate your body toward your target and shift your weight onto your lead leg and foot. Even if the swing doesn’ t feel perfect, commit to the motion and finish strong; don’ t slow down and finish high, and you’ ll have a better chance at producing a manageable result.
MENTALITY There is a lot to think about when it comes to the golf swing— sometimes too much. Trying to remember every mechanical cue can become overwhelming. All of those thoughts running through your head at setup act like extra weight, slowing down each part of your swing.
Next time your mind feels crowded with swing thoughts, simply remember that a good finish can do more than you think. It helps:
• Promote consistent speed, especially through the impact zone.
• Prevent your body from slowing down, encouraging a full, high finish.
• Minimize compensations, helping neutralize mid-swing adjustments when something feels off.
FINISH STRONG My goal is to get you thinking more intentionally about how you finish your golf swing. Are you fully rotated? Are your hands finishing high instead of resting near your shoulders? Becoming more aware of your finish can reveal opportunities for improvement.
A good finish is something you can always return to when your swing isn’ t feeling quite right. And when everything is working? Chances are, a strong finish is part of the reason.
Remember, a good finish isn’ t just for show— it supports key aspects of your swing and can lead to better results over time. Good luck, and finish strong! vsga. org S EPTEMBER / O CTOBER 2025 | V IRGINIA G OLFER
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