Faults And Fixes: Flying Elbow

The fault to focus on in this time is “flying elbow” or “chicken wing” arm. When the body is restricted in movement, either by a lack of flexibility (which is usually the case) or lack of strength, extraneous or unnecessary movements occur in the golf swing. For example if your shoulder turn is restricted and you cannot keep your arm straight you will bend the arm to get the club to the top of the backswing. (Trust me, over the last 18 years I have seen golfers do anything to get to the top of the backswing!)

One physical restriction manifesting in the golf swing as the “chicken wing” swing flaw is the issue of shoulder flexibility and a lack of range of motion in the shoulder turn.

Remember to breathe deeply, focus on the muscles where you feel the restriction and visualize the muscle relaxing. Breathing, movement and focus are the foundations of yoga – connecting the body and mind.

Note: If you do not own a Thera-Ball, I highly suggest you invest in this piece of fitness apparatus. Many of my training with amateur and professional golfers are a hybrid of yoga and Thera-Ball conditioning. Go to the PRO SHOP to select the size for your height.

Reverse Chest Opener:

Lie on the Thera-Ball supporting the head and neck. Lace the hands under the neck. Inhale deeply as you draw your navel toward the spine, fire the gluts so the hips are parallel to the floor. Exhale as you press your elbows away from the body, feeling the stretch through the chest and upper back / shoulder area. Return to the starting position and repeat 10 times.

Shoulder Twist On The Ball:

Lie on the Thera-Ball supporting the head and neck. Lace the hands under the neck. Inhale deeply as you draw your navel toward the spine, fire the gluts so the hips are parallel to the floor. Bring the hands together at chest height.