Rotation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘The biomechanics of the movement system are similar to the mechanics of other systems. In mechanical systems, the longevity of the components and the efficiency of performance require the maintenance of precise movements of the rotating segments.’

S. Sharmann. 

 

Rotation within the golf swing is an accurate depiction of rotation within full body motion. This is provided by the interconnected chains and integrated lines of human anatomy working in synergy as a whole. The shoulder, spine, pelvis, hip, knee and ankle and foot joints all rotate to enable the upper limb and hands the opportunity to deliver the potential energy from the club to the ball.

 

Rotation is present throughout all joints throughout the full stroke and so achieving optimal rotation at these joints range is vital. However it is of equal value that we focus on how well we control this combined range of rotation movement if we are to produce precision movement and peak results. 

 

Just as limited rotation has its obvious barriers to optimal swing potential so too does uncontrolled or unstable rotation range of motion. Therefore for each player it is a priority to accomplish optimal range of rotation at the same time as programming control of the forces during motion. 

 

In particular this requires the soft tissues have the optimal length and extensibility to work in co-activation with muscular contractions to produce energy, power and stability. In turn this generates effective acceleration, stabilisation and deceleration of the club through the full swing available. For any joint or joints in series to move and rotate maximally requires the effective communication and balanced co-activation of the neuromuscular system 

 

As we have determined, restrictions to movement that may not be present at a single joint or region, can exist when we combine movements or regions together to produce total body motion.

There may only be minimal range or control of movement deficits at any singular joint or region of the body but if these minor movement discrepancies are present in many or several areas in series then the accumulation is magnified when they attempt to work together. This can disrupt flow, efficiency, capability and productivity of swing.

 

For example during the backswing a player may have trail hip external rotation stiffness, combined with spinal rotation constriction, connected with lead shoulder internal rotation tightness. These constrictions in association will prevent full range of overall rotation. However during the swing the feeling may present as general non-specific stiffness leaving the player unaware of where and how these restrictions are reducing stroke competence. 

 

It is when we assess these combined movements in sequence during the screen, that the interlinked limitations are revealed and identified. From here these constraints can be attributed to the swing to establish where progress is being hindered and the requisite movement corrections applied. In many cases this is through improving, controlling and optimising rotations in singular components and regions, then as whole interconnected moving units.