Simplifying Complex Golf Concepts w/ Mike Finney

29 snips

Apr 28, 2025

Joining is Mike Finney, a seasoned golf instructor known for his innovative approach to teaching. He delves into the evolution of golf instruction and the critical need to unlearn outdated practices. Mike highlights the significance of biomechanics and clubface control in swing performance. He emphasizes simplifying complex topics for golfers, ensuring they grasp only what truly matters. The discussion also touches on the impact of grip techniques and the intricacies of swing dynamics, offering practical insights for enhancing performance on the course.

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ANECDOTE

Finney's Golfing Machine Roots

Mike Finney's early golf training was influenced heavily by the Golfing Machine and Brian Manzella.
He was an authorized instructor from 1990 to 2005, deeply involved in those early methodologies.

INSIGHT

No Free Actions in Swing

No part of the golf swing happens without active input from the player; the club follows the commands given.
There is no free mechanism where the club magically aligns itself at impact.

ADVICE

Fix Clubface First

Fix the clubface first when coaching players, especially slicers, to improve ball flight.
Use grip adjustment and forearm rotation cues like those shown in the Jon Rahm video to help close the clubface.

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The Science of the Golf Swing

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Mike Jacobs

Steven Nesbitt

"The Science of the Golf Swing" by Steven Nesbitt and Mike Jacobs is a comprehensive exploration of golf biomechanics, combining scientific research with practical instruction. The book delves into the complex physics and biomechanics of the golf swing, providing a detailed analysis of movement patterns and their impact on ball flight. It offers a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application, helping golfers and instructors improve their understanding of swing mechanics. The book's use of data and scientific principles provides a strong foundation for effective golf instruction. Its detailed analysis of various swing elements and its emphasis on scientific rigor make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their golf game.

The Search for the Perfect Swing

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John Stobbs

Alistair Cochran

Alistair Cochran and John Stobbs's "The Search for the Perfect Swing" is a seminal work in golf instruction, applying scientific principles to analyze the golf swing. Published in 1968, it uses biomechanics and physics to explain the golf swing, providing a more data-driven approach compared to previous methods. The book's detailed analysis of swing mechanics and its emphasis on scientific rigor revolutionized golf instruction. It challenged many traditional beliefs and introduced new concepts that are still relevant today. Its influence continues to shape modern golf instruction, emphasizing the importance of understanding the physics and biomechanics of the swing. The book's enduring legacy lies in its contribution to a more scientific and effective approach to golf teaching.

The golfing machine

Homer Kelley

Homer Kelly's "The Golfing Machine" is a highly influential, yet controversial book on golf instruction. Published in 1969, it attempts to scientifically analyze the golf swing, breaking it down into numerous components and variations. The book's complex terminology and approach have led to both praise and criticism, with some instructors finding it insightful and others finding it confusing and misleading. Its impact on golf instruction is undeniable, shaping the teaching methods of many instructors for decades. However, modern research has challenged some of its core principles, leading to a reevaluation of its methods. Despite its flaws, it remains a significant text in the history of golf instruction.