This move addresses a common challenge: what to do during the downswing. Many golfers struggle with getting the club in the right position, leading to open clubfaces and inconsistent ball striking. By leveraging the natural momentum of the club, the Malaska Move provides a simple, effective solution to these issues.
Key Insight: Understanding the Momentum of the Club
Mike observes that modern players often try to shallow the shaft during the downswing, which can lead to problems. “When you try to shallow the club and turn, your hands often push out, the clubface opens, and it becomes difficult to square the face at impact,” Mike explains.
Joe Nichols introduced Mike to a different approach: allowing the natural momentum of the club to work for you. When the club changes direction at the top of the swing, its momentum naturally wants to fall back. The key is to feel like you’re tipping the club or pulling the handle down. This move gets the club back in front of your body, setting up an efficient turn into the ball.
Step 1: Executing the Malaska Move
Mike breaks down the essential components of the move:
1. Tip the Club Out: As you start the downswing, feel like you’re tipping the club slightly outward. This ensures the club stays in the correct arc.
2. Right Shoulder Motion: Your right shoulder should move downward during the downswing rather than following the swing outward. This keeps your body and the club aligned.
3. Let Momentum Guide You: Allow the club’s momentum to work naturally instead of forcing it into position. This creates a smooth and powerful transition.
When performed correctly, this move positions the club for a clean strike while maintaining control and consistency.
Step 2: Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Golfers often struggle with the downswing when the club falls behind their body or the shoulders over-rotate. Mike warns against these common mistakes:
• Over-Rotating Shoulders: Excessive shoulder movement disrupts the swing arc and places the club out of position.
• Letting the Club Lag Too Far: If the club falls too far behind, you’re forced to either twist your body aggressively or flip your hands to catch up. Both lead to inconsistent results.
• Losing the Arc: Proper club positioning ensures the swing arc naturally delivers the clubface to the ball.
The Malaska Move eliminates these issues, allowing for a more efficient and repeatable swing.
Step 3: Drills to Master the Malaska Move
Mike recommends the following drills to internalize the movement:
1. Handle Pull Drill: Practice pulling the handle of the club down during the transition to feel the tipping motion.
2. Shoulder Drop Drill: Focus on dropping your right shoulder downward as you start the downswing, ensuring alignment with the club.
3. Momentum Swing Drill: Take slow, deliberate swings, letting the club’s momentum guide its path into the correct arc.
Pro Tip: Start with half swings to get a feel for the move before progressing to full swings.
The Results
By mastering the Malaska Move, you position the club for a consistent and powerful strike. The move ensures the club stays in front of you, allowing you to turn aggressively into the ball without losing control. With the correct swing arc and proper momentum, your shots become more efficient and repeatable.
Key Takeaways
1. The Malaska Move is a Feeling: Focus on tipping the club and using its natural momentum.
2. Avoid Over-Rotating Shoulders: Keep your right shoulder moving downward, not outward.
3. Maintain the Arc: Proper positioning ensures the clubface meets the ball squarely.
4. Let Momentum Work for You: Use the club’s natural motion to simplify your swing.
Ready to Elevate Your Game?
At Malaska Golf, we break down complex swing mechanics to help you achieve consistency and power. The Malaska Move is one of many tools designed to unlock your potential and simplify your swing.
Dive into the M-System, where we help you:
• Master: Teach you essential swing mechanics and techniques.
• Maximize: Help you apply these principles to elevate your game rapidly.
• Maintain: Provide ongoing tips and guidance to keep improving.
Discover how mastering the Malaska Move can revolutionize your approach to golf. Simplify your swing and elevate your performance—the Malaska way.
