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This lesson is a perfect example of how the relationship of the clubface to the body can dictate just about everything in a swing from set up to swing path as a result of trying to get the ball to fly in a desired fashion. In John’s case we have an excessively strong grip masqueraded by the hands forward, head back setup position and a corresponding closed face throughout the swing in spite of a cupped wrist, which should promote a more open face. John’s swing motion is powerful and fluid, but forced to be overly in- to- out in order to start the ball to the right enough to make up for the almost guaranteed right to left ball flight. Then there is the problem of elevating the longer clubs, which is why you see the tilted back upper body position at address.
My prescription is to start by centering the stance, which should give a more accurate view of just how strong the grip really is. Next step is to change the grip. I show a couple of examples of neutral to slightly strong grips, and there are always my instructional segments to refer to for the details of grip feel and placement. After that the only thing I would concentrate on would be to begin trying to route the swing more out from the top and left on the exit. This will be a struggle, as I’m sure many shots have been hit fighting the hook, and telling someone to swing more left to keep from hitting left is always counter intuitive. The key here is the face of the club: if it is more open the in-to-out swing path will produce a dead right block, and thus the player will be encouraged to swing more left. If John can change his grip his excellent wrist position should have the face in better position throughout the swing immediately. From there I can see great improvements on the horizon.
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