The Golf Channel is one of the staples of my existence. Since it has been on the air, as an instruction addict, I’ve been sustained by programs like Golf Channel Academy, Golf Fitness Academy, and Playing Lessons from the Pros. This past fall, they introduced a new show called Personal Lessons that has quickly become one of my favorites. Somehow, I missed it then, but have been catching up now. The premise is extremely simple: a well known professional teams up with two amateurs of varying skill levels and they all hit the course for a playing lesson. To me, the usefulness of the instruction goes way beyond what Playing Lessons from the Pros gives us, where we get to see a tour pro playing a round. With that program, we get a look into his/her routine and style, learning how players of that level manage the course and hit specific shots. As much as I love it, amateur players face a different set of challenges and problems. That’s where Personal Lessons shines. By teaming

Back in October, I commented on an article that appeared in Golf Digest where Bobby Clampett indicated that players should strike the ball with a downward, or descending, blow with the driver. You can read the original post here. You might recall that I objected to the idea, given that it’s not widely accepted as a a good driving fundamental. Plus, video evidence shows that prominent PGA Tour professionals don’t seem to be doing that. When I opened up this month’s Golf Digest (March 2008), I was interested to see that there was a reader’s letter asking about the idea, with concerns that everything the reader had ever been taught is counter to what Clampett suggests. I was also interested to see a response from Clampett. He points out that a more comprehensive discussion is needed on the subject (as he does in his book, The Impact Zone), but that to him, “…the most convincing evidence of the downward arc at impact is the forward lean of the driver shaft, which can be seen under

I just finished reading the November 2007 issue of Golf Digest and am a little confused. In this month’s Breaking 100/90/80/70 section, Bobby Clampett sings the praises of hitting down on the ball. In his estimation, the bottom of the swing arc should be about four inches in front of the ball, meaning that when the club makes contact with the ball, it is still moving downward. I can buy that. In fact, I just covered it in my post about the general misunderstanding of what hitting down on the ball means. What I’m a little surprised about is his point that the driver should be included in that category. In the article, he says: I’m blown away that so many reputable golf teachers instruct their students to strike the driver on the upswing. Regardless of whether a ball is on a tee or on a ground, the swing bottom must consistently be four inches in front of the ball. And swinging slightly down on the ball with the driver goes a long way toward

Taking lessons is something that all golfers should do, at least occasionally. If Tiger Woods needs a swing doctor, then the rest of us can probably use the help too. Finding a pro can be as simple as a trip to your local golf course or driving range. But, much like buying a suit off the rack, for the best results you really need to find someone tailored to you. There are lots of factors to consider. Personality It’s important to work with a pro who matches your own personality and makes you feel comfortable. If you find yourself in a situation where you just aren’t connecting well, you need to start searching for another pro. Lessons are costly and you should be taking as much from them as you can. There too many fish in the sea to stay with a teacher who you don’t feel totally comfortable with. Style One of the most important aspects is the teaching style. For instance, does the pro teach a system or does he/she try and make