Golf is hard. What makes it even harder is all the terminology. Most intermediate to advanced golfers understand the difference between a hook vs slice and pull vs push.
However, when golf professionals start talking about swing characteristics like a steep or flat swing, many golfers might not understand the difference between the two swing paths. Don’t worry, we have you covered!
In the article below, we will focus on a steep golf swing. We will cover the advantages and disadvantages of a steep golf swing as well as cover the common causes of a steep golf swing. We have a lot to review so let’s get started!
What Is A Steep Golf Swing? Pros and Cons
A steep golf swing is one in which the club is swung on a more vertical or upright plane as opposed to a shallower or flatter plane.
The club approaches the ball from a steeper angle with a steep swing. This results in a steeper drop into the ball at impact.
Some golfers have a naturally steep swing, whilst others may purposefully develop a steeper swing for a variety of reasons. However, a steep swing can have both advantages and disadvantages.
Pros Of A Steep Golf Swing:
Increased power: A steeper swing can generate more power and distance, especially with irons and wedge. The steeper attack angle allows for a more aggressive downward strike on the ball whereas shallower swing typically result in shortened distance.
Cons Of A Steep Golf Swing:
Inconsistent contact: A steep swing can make it more difficult to consistently make solid contact with the ball. The steeper angle of attack increases the chances of mishitting the golf ball, resulting in fat shots or topped shots.
Reduced accuracy: The steeper swing path can make it challenging to control the direction of the ball. This leads to a higher likelihood of slices or pulls.
Difficulty with certain shots: A steep swing may not be ideal for certain shots that require a shallow or sweeping swing, such as hitting a driver off the tee or executing delicate chip shots around the green.
What Causes A Steep Golf Swing?
Understanding the causes of a steep golf swing can shed light on the factors that contribute to this swing pattern and help golfers make necessary adjustments for better performance on the course.
6 Most Common Causes Of A Steep Golf Swing
Swing Plane: The swing plane refers to the angle at which the club is swung around the body. If a golfer’s swing plane is too vertical or upright, it can lead to a steeper swing. This can be influenced by the golfer’s setup, grip, and overall swing mechanics.
Grip: The way a golfer holds the club can affect the swing plane. If a golfer has a strong grip, with the hands rotated more to the right (for a right-handed golfer), it can encourage a steeper swing. Conversely, a weak grip, with the hands rotated more to the left, can promote a flatter swing.
Body Positioning: The position of the body at address and throughout the swing can impact the swing plane. If a golfer sets up with the shoulders too steep or tilted, it can lead to a steeper swing. Similarly, if the golfer’s spine angle is too vertical, it can result in a steeper swing.
Weight Distribution: Improper weight distribution can contribute to a steep swing. If a golfer’s weight is primarily on the back foot during the downswing, it can cause the club to approach the ball from a steeper angle.
Club Selection: The choice of clubs can also affect the swing plane. Some golfers may naturally swing their irons steeper than their woods due to differences in club length, lie angle, and loft.
Swing Tempo and Timing: A golfer’s swing tempo and timing can influence the swing plane. If a golfer has a fast or abrupt tempo, it can result in a steeper swing. Additionally, mistiming the transition from the backswing to the downswing can cause the club to approach the ball on a steeper angle.
Is A Steep Golf Swing Bad?
A steep golf swing is considered “bad” or not depending on various factors and individual preferences. Many successful professional golfers have a steep golf swing. While a steep swing can have its drawbacks, it also offers certain advantages.
Golfers with steep swings typically have increased powers, higher ball flights and spin, and have advantages when hitting uphill or from thick rough.
On the other hand, there are tradeoffs. Steep swings require more practice to become consistent. They may also have reduced accuracy due to higher spin, and be less effective for certain shots around the green.
Ultimately, it comes down to a golfer’s skill level, body type, and personal preferences when analyzing if a steep golf swing is beneficial or not.
What Does A Steep Golf Swing Look Like?
A steep golf swing is characterized by certain visual cues that differentiate it from a shallower swing. While it’s challenging to convey purely visual information through text, I can describe the general appearance of a steep golf swing:
Upright Club Position: In a steep swing, the club is often seen in a more upright position during the backswing. This means that the club shaft is more vertical, pointing away from the target, as the golfer takes the club back.
Vertical Body Alignment: Golfers with a steep swing tend to have a more vertical or upright body alignment throughout the swing. This can be observed in their posture at address, with the spine leaning more vertically rather than tilting forward.
Sharp Descent Angle: One of the key characteristics of a steep swing is the sharp descent angle into the ball during the downswing. As the club approaches impact, it tends to attack the ball on a steeper angle compared to a shallower swing.
Divot Pattern: A steep swing often produces divots that are deeper and more pronounced. This is because the steeper angle of attack causes the club to dig into the ground more aggressively after striking the ball.
Final Thoughts
A steep golf swing has its advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, it can provide more power, higher ball flights, and advantages in specific scenarios.
It can, however, result in irregular contact, decreased accuracy, and trouble with specific strokes.
Swing plane, grip, body alignment, weight distribution, club selection, and swing speed and timing are all potential causes of a steep golf swing.
Individual characteristics and preferences determine whether a steep golf swing is regarded excellent or undesirable.
Finally, a steep swing is distinguished visually by an upright club posture, vertical body alignment, and deeper divot patterns.
Hopefully, you liked this article and found it informative. Check out our other blog posts if you liked this one!
