What’s the single worst golf swing advice that people should just ignore?

In a new series on GOLF.com, we ask a panel of our Top 100 Teachers to address a common question readers might have about their games, their swings and anything else that could help them improve their on-course performances. This week, our roundtable discusses the worst swing advice golfers get.

WHAT’S THE SINGLE WORST PIECE OF ADVICE (OR SWING TIP) THAT PEOPLE MISTAKENLY ASSUME IS GREAT ADVICE AND SHOULD IGNORE?

Kevin Sprecher, Sleepy Hollow C.C., Scarborough, NY: One of the most common pieces of advice I hear golfers say to tell me they are trying is to keep the lead arm straight in the golf swing. They see Tour players doing it, so it must be correct. Keeping the lead arm straight typically results in too much tension, poor upper body rotation, and mis-hits.

Carol Preisinger, Kiawah Island Club, Kiawah Island, SC: It’s a tie between, “Keep your head down,” and “Keep your left arm straight.”

Kellie Stenzel, Boca Raton Resort & Club, Boca Raton, Fla. and Palm Beach CC: “You’re swinging too fast — swing slower.” The reality is that swinging slower is a great way to hit it shorter. If your fundamentals and setup are good enough, speed will be your friend and you will only hit it farther. If speed causes you to lose your balance or contact, check your posture.

Jon Tattersall, Fusion ATL, Atlanta, GA: “The body does all the work,” or “The arms do all the work.” It’s a blend of motions. There aren’t many — if any — silver bullets

Lou Guzzi. Talamore CC, Ambler, PA: Stop thinking so much and just swing the club. I want my students to know exactly what they are doing when they swing a club and play a shot.

Debbie Doniger, GlenArbor G.C., Bedford, NY: Keeping your head still may be a good swing feel, but used generally it can lead to poor ball-striking and poor body movement.

Gary Weir, Westchester CC, Rye, NY: John Jacobs used to say if your teacher asks you to keep your head down or swing slow, find a new teacher. I subscribe to that.