Over the top - weight transfer

"Over the top - weight transfer" is a concept primarily associated with golf and, to some extent, other sports like baseball or tennis. It refers to the technique of shifting one's body weight during a particular movement or swing to optimize performance. This concept is especially important in the golf swing, where precise weight transfer can significantly impact the power, accuracy, and overall quality of the shot.

In the context of golf, the term "over the top" refers to an incorrect swing path where a golfer's clubhead approaches the ball from an outside-to-inside angle, leading to slices, pulls, and generally poor shot results. Proper weight transfer is a critical element in correcting this swing flaw.

Here's a breakdown of the key components of "Over the top - weight transfer" in golf:

Weight Shift: During a golf swing, there is an ideal sequence of weight transfer. The golfer should start with their weight favoring their back foot, then transition it smoothly toward their front foot as they swing. This shift helps generate power and accuracy in the shot.

Over the Top Swing: The "over the top" swing occurs when a golfer's upper body and hands move outward away from the body during the downswing, causing an outside-in swing path. This can lead to the clubhead striking the ball from an improper angle, resulting in slices or pulls.

Correction: To fix the "over the top" swing, golfers need to focus on their weight transfer. Proper weight transfer involves starting with a slightly closed stance (left foot positioned ahead of the right for right-handed golfers), maintaining a balanced weight distribution between both feet at the top of the backswing, and then smoothly shifting their weight from the back foot to the front foot as they initiate the downswing. This helps to bring the clubhead down on an inside-to-outside path, resulting in straighter and more accurate shots.

Practice and Coaching: Achieving the correct weight transfer in a golf swing can be challenging, and many golfers seek professional coaching to help them correct the "over the top" flaw. Regular practice and drills that focus on weight transfer are also crucial for improvement.

In summary, "Over the top - weight transfer" in golf refers to the common mistake of shifting one's body weight incorrectly during the swing, leading to undesirable shot outcomes. Proper weight transfer involves a smooth transition from the back foot to the front foot, and it is a fundamental element in correcting the "over the top" swing path to achieve better results on the golf course.