In golf instruction, absolutes are rare. But when it comes to great iron players, James Hong, a GOLF Teacher to Watch, explains there’s one common thread: just before impact, they get “stacked” on their lead side.
If you study the best ball-strikers on tour, you’ll notice that as the club starts down, when the lead arm and club shaft are parallel to the ground, they load into their lead leg in a unique way.
During this phase of the downswing, Hong explains they are stacking their lead leg by loading into the joints one on top of the other. Look closely and you’ll see the knee stack over — or sometimes slightly outside — the lead ankle.
This stacking move shifts the player’s weight properly onto the lead side and creates a stable post to turn around, helping the player to sequence correctly, leading to better ball-striking.
Think “stack” for better sequencing
Many amateurs have a tendency to hang back in their swing. If your pressure stays on the trail side, the club bottoms out too early. That’s when you produce those frustrating fat or thin shots.
By learning to stack over your lead leg, you’ll improve your weight shift and move your low point just ahead of the ball, encouraging ball-first contact — which is key to better ball-striking.
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How to stack your swing
A great way to rehearse this move is to make a few slow, half-speed swings. As you transition into the downswing and the club reaches a level parallel to the ground, feel your lead knee move over your lead ankle. Everything should feel stacked on that lead side.
It may feel exaggerated, or awkward. However, with repetition, the movement will start to feel natural and easier to repeat.
Once you’re comfortable stacking on your lead leg, Hong says to incorporate a ball into your practice. Again, start with slow, controlled swings, then gradually build up to full speed.
If you’re looking to improve your sequencing and contact, remember this: get stacked to get forward, and the rest will take care of itself.
