What is a Flat Left Wrist? Wrist Flexion/Extension explained.

One of the key topics on my Learning Platform, GOLF COACH ACCESS, is that your clever coordination system always will prioritise getting the clubface back square when you hit the golf ball. If the face is way out in the downswing though, this means making some pretty funky 'last-minute adjustments to deliver the face. Understanding how the flat left wrist (lead wrist flexion) works can make the whole process a lot more predictable and less frantic.

A flat left wrist is all about creating a strong impact alignment to get the multiple benefits below.

The lead Wrist Must be Flexed to get the Bottom of Arc Past the Ball

A forward-leaning shaft at impact will push the bottom of your arc forwards of the ball giving you:

• A downward angle of attack
• Contact with the ball before the ground.
• A better chance of an IN-OUT patch (dependant on horizontal plane/swing direction)

Lead Wrist Flexion Reduces Dynamic Loft

You will also have greatly decreased the dynamic loft to effect of:

• Greater smash/ ball compression and ball speed
• Lower spin rate
• Lower launch
• Greatly improved distance (see dynamic loft video)

Woods

This is a big topic for irons where a shaft lean at impact is hugely desirable. With wood and to a lesser extent, a rescue, we are looking for the shaft to be in line with the ball and return with approximately the neutral loft of the club. With wood, the left wrist would still flatten but recover mostly by the time the club reaches the ball.