2 different ways the lead arm influences golf shots, per top teacher

By: Mark Durland, Top 100 Teacher , Nick Dimengo July 30, 2024

Golfer hits shot while instructor watches on golf course

If you're lacking the consistency you want, it might be time to reassess the positioning of your lead arm.

Getty Images

High lead arm or low lead arm? That’s the million-dollar question!

In the video below, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Mark Durland helps you decipher which is best for you — so check out what he has to say and start experiencing better shot results almost instantly.

2 ways to use the lead arm in golf

In the video above, Durland says he believes that the lead arm controls the trajectory of the golf swing.

So what does he mean by this?

“If the lead arm goes up, this is going to create either a fade or slice profile,” he tells me. “When the lead arm gets up into the air and we start blending in some rotation in the downswing, the club’s going to exit low and left for a right-handed golfer. This is similar to how a ping pong paddle goes right to left across the back of the ping pong ball, causing a left-to-right ball flight.”

Durland often tells his students that the lead arm should resemble a ferris wheel, which gives the visual of the swing moving more up and down.

But there’s more than just one way to use the lead arm in the golf swing.

Another way Durland says a player can use their lead arm is imagining a merry-go-round in the backswing, which provides a visual of a swing moving more around.

“The other way we can use our lead arm is by keeping it low and across our body, which gives the player an opportunity to swing out more,” Durland shares. “This would be like having the ping pong paddle going left-to-right across the back of the ping pong ball to stimulate a right-to-left ball flight — which would be a draw in golf terms for a right-handed golfer).”

GOLF Teacher to Watch Rick Silva explains the importance of both the lead arm vs. the trail arm through impact during the golf swing — Breaking down the lead arm vs. the trail arm in the golf swing
By: Rick Silva, GOLF ‘Teacher to Watch’

So how can both of these lead arm positions improve your swing? When done correctly, you’re able to match your downswing with your backswing — meaning there’s no big rerouting under or over in the downswing.

“Golfers I teach typically fall into one of two categories,” Durland shares. “They either need more merry-go-round or more ferris wheel in the lead arm, which, when achieved, will help eliminate hooks or slices to produce more natural drawing shots.”

Depending on the type of shot shape you’re looking for, Durland says your lead arm will be in a different position.

“So should you use a high lead arm or a low lead arm? The answer is in your shot shape,” he tells me. “If you hit a fade or a slice (and would like to see a draw), then use a lower lead arm (or merry-go-round). But if you hit a draw or hook (and prefer a fade), then use a high lead arm (or a ferris wheel).”

Now that you’ve got the visuals for the proper position of your lead arm, it’s time to hit the driving range and start seeing more positive shot results.

Sure-Strike Training Aid by Sure Golf

Sure-Strike The golf swing trainer designed to help you master your swing mechanics to swing like a Tour Pro! The Sure-Strike is not just another training aid; it’s a game-changer. This new golf swing trainer is meticulously crafted to instill perfect swing mechanics, creating a permanent shift in your performance. Say goodbye to inconsistent swings and hello to a new level of precision and power. Key Benefits of the Sure-Strike Training Aid Transform your timing for solid contact and an efficient swing. Improve swing path and attack angle for optimal ball-then-turf contact and true compression at impact. Enhance swing sequence, ensuring perfect coordination between body, arms, and club. Train a shallow swing plane for true lag and increased clubhead speed. Experience freedom and effortlessness in your swing, unlocking your natural athleticism. Suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Crafted with precision and durability in mind. Elevate your golfing experience and unleash your true potential. With the Sure-Strike, you’ll experience a transformation in your timing, resulting in solid contact with the ball and an overall more efficient swing. This training aid focuses on improving the path of your swing and attack angle, allowing you to find the ideal low point and achieve that coveted ball-then-turf contact. The result? True compression at impact and a newfound level of control over your shots. One of the key benefits of the Sure-Strike training aid is its ability to enhance the sequence of your swing, ensuring that your body, arms, and club work together in perfect harmony throughout the entire motion. By training in efficient transition, impact, and follow-through, you’ll experience a level of consistency and fluidity you’ve only dreamed of. The Sure-Strike empowers you to feel and train a shallow swing plane, leading to true lag and a powerful impact. This shallow plane not only promotes better contact with the ball but also generates greater clubhead speed, resulting in longer and more accurate shots. Feel the satisfaction of hitting crisp, penetrating shots that soar through the air with ease. By incorporating the Sure-Strike golf training aid into your training routine, little and often, you’ll witness a remarkable improvement in your range of movement. This swing trainer helps you achieve a feeling of freedom and effortlessness in your swing, unlocking your natural golf swing and allowing you to unleash your full potential on the course. Crafted with precision and built to last, the Sure-Strike is your trusted partner for transforming your golf game. It is easy to use and suitable for golfers of all skill levels, even for kids with the junior version. Practice with confidence and witness the evolution of your swing. Invest in the Sure-Strike today and elevate your golfing experience to new heights. Experience the joy of a consistent, efficient, and powerful swing that brings your game to a whole new level. Order now and unleash your true golfing potential! FAQs About the Sure-Strike Do Swing Trainers Actually Work? Yes! Golf swing trainers, like the Sure-Strike, teach you how to swing consistently while giving you instant feedback on your swing mechanics. Enough practice over time will build muscle memory that will translate to the course. How Do I Train My Golf Swing? In today’s age, there are an infinite number of ways to improve your golf swing. Golf training aids and repetition are some of the most popular and effective methods to improve your swing and your game overall.

$139.99 from Fairway Jockey