Swing Types of the Modern Game

Observations

Individuality

Golf swings are as diverse and individual as the people behind them. Characteristics are determined by many different factors that include: muscle memory, experience, teaching, philosophy, body shape, flexibility, and the type of shot being played.

The modern swing can largely be attributed to pioneers and legends of the past. Ben Hogan has been a massive influence over teaching methods and his book 'Five Lessons - The Modern Fundamentals of Golf' is easily golf's most popular instructional book ever printed.

The Manufactured Swing

'Manufactured swing' is a term regularly used to describe how a players' swing motion has been created. The 'manufactured' part of the term is a reference to how a player has been taught. Essentially this is a swing produced 'by the book'. Technical accuracy is held at a premium as the positions of the club from backswing, impact, and follow through will have been meticulously worked on.

If a player has had many hours of teaching (normally from a young age) from professionals looking to produce a consistent (even robot like) swing in a student, the results will inevitably look manufactured. While there are, in essence, no inherent reasons why your swing should not be 'manufactured' in this way it does take some of the individuality and natural beauty from a swing.

The Natural Swing

'Natural swings' are an increasingly rare commodity in the professional game of golf. A 'natural' swing is one in which a player has kept his individual style, usually through not having any formal or professional tuition.

For players taking the game up later in life, natural tendencies usually remain present in muscle memory, so even if lessons are taken a player will most likely retain some form of individuality.

One of the most successful golfers (in modern times) with a 'natural swing' is Jim Furyk. While his style it is not considered aesthetically pleasing, it produces a consistent motion and good results.

Other Modern Swing Styles

There are not many professional golfers (at present) with instantly recognisable swings that elevate them from the crowd.

Considered by many in the game to have one of the best male swings on tour is Ernie Els. He is also appropriately known as 'The Big Easy' with reference to his long, languid, relaxed and fluid swing that endears him to fans of the game.

Tiger Woods recently changed his swing in an attempt to be more consistent. His style of swing is recognised for having a crisp, compact, powerful and punchy action.

Other professionals renowned for their swing styles include Fred Couples (smooth motion akin to some of the fluid swings found on the LPGA Tour) and John Daly (an unrestricted swing that produces an 'over-swing' and much power).