How to create lag in your golf swing for better performance

Creating lag in your golf swing is all about timing and sequencing. Lag refers to the angle between the club shaft and your left arm (for right-handed golfers) during the downswing. To achieve this, focus on maintaining a 90-degree angle between your left forearm and the club shaft as long as possible during the downswing.

Keep your arms connected and don not rush the release, letting your body rotation and arm swing work together.

One effective drill is the "L" drill, where you focus on forming an "L" shape with your left arm and the club shaft at the top of your backswing. Hold this position for a brief moment before starting your downswing. You can also pause at the top of your backswing for a split second before starting your downswing, which helps maintain lag and prevents early release.

Another drill involves swinging with a towel under your left arm, focusing on keeping the towel in place as long as possible. This helps you maintain connection and lag. To generate power, use your legs and keep your wrists firm, avoiding releasing the club too early. Start with slow swings and focus on maintaining lag before increasing your speed.

The benefits of lag in the golf swing are numerous. It can increase distance, improve accuracy, and lead to more consistent ball striking. By creating lag, golfers can generate more power and speed through the ball, resulting in longer shots. Lag also helps to create a more efficient transfer of energy from the body to the clubhead, making the swing more effective.

In addition, lag improves timing and sequencing of the swing, allowing golfers to better coordinate their movements and hit the ball more solidly. This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of slicing or hooking the ball, leading to more accurate shots. Overall, incorporating lag into the swing can increase consistency and control, helping golfers to play more confidently and effectively. Catch you on the fairways! 

-Sewgolum is PGA AA golf professional and a golf pro for Saudi Aramco. He was voted in the Top Five of the International Golf PGA Pro 2022.