Many golfers also have interest in other sports, whether they’re a player or a spectator. In the case of junior golfers, many of them also play soccer or baseball. Surprisingly, golfers that also play baseball report having trouble with their baseball swing because of their golf swing or vice versa. While there are some similarities between golf and baseball, there are plenty of differences.
One of the major differences between golf and baseball swings is the stationary ball. When hitting a pitch in baseball, the ball is moving above the ground, forcing a baseball swing to be roughly parallel to the ground. Golf uses a stationary ball at ground level, which affects the mechanics of the swing. Whereas the sweet spot on the bat is closer to the middle, golfers want to hit the ball with the head of the club. The head of a golf club is flat compared to a round baseball bat, which affects the curve of the ball. Though there are plenty of differences between golf and baseball, playing one sport doesn’t have to jeopardize your performance in the other.
Finding the similarities
For people who used to play baseball, learning to swing a golf club the right way can seem like a challenge. However, there are more similarities between the two swings than you might expect. Finding those similarities may be the key to helping golfers with a baseball swing improve their performance. Despite the fact that the swings occur at different angles, the follow through is crucial for both golf swings and baseball swings.
Additionally, both baseball bats and golf clubs are facing the point of impact. Though the shape of the bat or club face affects the rotation and curve of the ball, the actual core features of the swing are not that different. Some people have even found success by mimicking the features of a baseball swing at the angle of a golf swing, indicating that there are techniques used by baseball players that do apply to golf.
Adjusting for the differences
Giving up baseball isn’t a necessary step for improving your golf swing. Adjusting for the differences in the two types of swing while identifying the similarities can help you get the best of both worlds. There are elements of a baseball swing that could actually make your golf swing stronger. It may be difficult to identify the productive parts of a baseball swing and the parts that you should leave behind. Working with a golf instructor can help you determine the parts of your swing that need help and the parts that are already successful.
Even if you think you are past the point of no return, anyone can improve their swing. Just look at how Charles Barkley fixed his ugly golf swing. If he can improve his notoriously bad swing, so can you. Looking for a high quality golf instructor? Visit Calabasas Country Club for one on one lessons with some of the best instructors available. Whether your swing is completely broken or just needs a little tweak, our team is here to help you get back on track.
