Every action has a reaction and every cause an effect. That's why I like to use the L-to-L swing concept with students because it revolves around the motion being a process of action and reaction.
There are two positions in the swing we can control – backswing and through swing – and what happens in the hitting area is an uncontrolled reaction to these positions. We instinctively want to use our arms as the primary source of power, but, in a good swing, the majority of clubhead speed comes from our wrists and the rest from our body. To get to the “L” finish position you have to use these parts of the body, which makes this an effective drill.
Here are your physical checkpoints:
At address, pay attention to the triangle formed by your arms and shoulders and maintain it through the hitting area.
On the backswing, form a capital “L” with your arms and club and turn your back to the target as much as possible.
On the through swing, pivot your body up to the backward “L” no higher than shoulder height and let your head naturally rise with the motion.
Randy Chang is the director of instruction at Randy Chang Golf Schools at the Journey at Pechanga, Talega Golf Club and Back Bay Golf Course.