Appropriate Tempo & Rhythm will help you “Swing easy & Hit Hard”
What is Rhythm – It is the duration ratio of backswing to downswing.
If you have a video of your swing, count the number of frames it takes to complete the backswing then the number of frames it takes to complete the downswing. Optimal rhythm ratio is 3:1
Tiger’s rhythm ratio is 3:1 ie. it takes 24 frames for his backswing and 8 frames for his downswing
What is Tempo – Tempo is the speed of your backswing & downswing
If you have a video of your swing count the number of frames it takes to complete both the backswing & downswing.The tempo is expressed in frames taken to complete the backswing and down swing. Optimal tempo is derived by trial & error
Tiger takes 24 video frames to complete his backswing and 8 video frames to complete his downswing and consequently his rhythm ratio is 3:1
Nick Price has a faster tempo but still maintains a 3:1 rhythm ratio.
Nick takes 21 frames to complete his backswing and 7 frames to complete his downswing
LPGA players typically have a 30 to 10 Tempo & Rhythm ratio
How do you quantify your optimum tempo & rhythm
SwingLAB has incorporated into their Decision Trainer a tempo and rhythm metronome that mirrors the athletes swing to measure Rhythm & Tempo
Swing Changes
Tempo & Rhythm should be incorporated into any new swing changes that are made in order to better match up the new movement to the golfer’s anatomical makeup and individual ability
SwingLAB encourages golfers to validate their tempo & rhythm at least once in every 7 times they practice.
General
All great players have the ability to swing every club at a consistent tempo and with great balance. Rhythm and balance are linked. Some players, like Tom Watson, exhibit faster tempos. Some, like Ernie Els, exhibit a slower tempo. Yet all remain balanced.
The key to consistency is to maintain your balance with smooth rhythm.
If you rush your swing you will lose your balance and the end result is inconsistent contact and poor ball flight. Outstanding ball strikers are rarely off balance at impact and their rhythm is the "glue" that bonds their positions and movements. Great rhythm allows you to properly sequence your body motion and arrive at impact in a position of leverage and power.
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