Optimum knee flex
 

Is there such a thing as an optimum amount of knee flex at address? I realize some teach to maintain the flex of the back knee and some don't mind if it straightens on the backswing, but is there any amount of flex necessary other than to make sure it isn't locked straight? Did Homer Kelley address this? Thanks!

Re: Optimum knee flex
 

leegee38~

I have been researching lateral spinal tilt where knee flex is involved. If you have the book, part of your answer is covered in 7-16 Knee Action, second paragraph, "The proper amount of Knee Bend is determined at Impact Fix." Hopefully others will provide additional insight considering the body position "variable" in Impact Fix.

The current issue of Golf Illustrated has an article by Tom E. Stickney II (TGM certification) who references TGM and comments on knee flex as it relates to a shoulder turn perpendicular to the spine (10-13-C).

DRW

Re: Optimum knee flex
 

Doc,

I haven't found that issue on the local newstands. Can you give a brief summary of what Stickney stated?

Armourall~

It is the June issue.

*Reference is made to TGM and to results from the Motion Analysis Technology by TaylorMade System in linking a level shoulder turn and a “drawing” type ball flight pattern.

*The transitional motion into the downswing will be easier and more consistent if the shoulders are allowed to turn perpendicular to the axis of the spine in route to the top.

*The rear shoulder can ride high into the backswing or tilt because the level shoulder turn requires some flexibility of the upper torso and an “astute” lower body control in the move to the top

*Three moves will make the level shoulder turn more “accessible.”

1-Lateral spinal tilt at address of 2 to 4 inches.

2-Holding the flex and position of the right knee established at address all the way to the top. The hips will make a level turn and influence the shoulders

3 -The spine leaning away from the target and over the right leg at the top.

Mirror work while swinging a heavy club is recommended. He cautions that #1 can be overdone but starting without sufficient #1 can produce a “sway” or excessive head movement. A slide or straightening of the right knee results in the spine, left shoulder and head falling forward.

FWIW, for me, note was made of the flexibility demands for this motion but also the importance of monitoring the right shoulder when making the flatter turn of 10-13-B. And, the article stimulated a study of 7-16.

DRW

Thanks, Doc. Sounds like a good article. I'll look around some more for that issue.