This is a discussion of rhythm versus tempo. The following video chat covers extemporaneous thoughts about the two terms. As it turns out, the definitions are different. Therefore, considering the role each occupies in a golf swing and a golf game, the discussion is warranted. Consider how you approach improving your game with regard to each, and I believe you will appreciate how the Open Stance fosters both\u2026 even more than before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rhythm is an employment of structural components and states in a coordinated sequence of movement that express an underlying objective. Terms like \u201cCoil\u201d, \u201cLeverage\u201d, \u201cLag\u201d, \u201cRotation\u201d, \u201cAcceleration\u201d, \u201cExtension\u201d, etc. are all subsets of the \u2018Hitting a golf ball\u2019-objective with a golf swing. They each constitute a segment of, and have a beginning and an end within, the overall movement. Therefore, components and states cannot dictate tempo. We spend time in each state with our corresponding components employed, but without regard to amount of time. Coordination is our key to rhythm versus tempo, which holds a time component.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tempo is how long it takes us to get our coordinated components through the movements. Some have fast tempo, like Dan Pohl. Others have slow tempo, like Payne Stewart. In either extreme, our backswing is slower than our downswing. Our transition determines how we coordinate our change of direction – with our components in a state unique to that segment of our swing. The faster our backswing, the faster our downswing must be to maintain proportional. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You will know if you have mastered coordination when you strike your ball. The foundation of coordination is set-up. If your set-up changes, your coordination compromises because your mind changes. Repeating a disciplined set-up will bring coordination, provided that your set-up allows for maximum flexibility of shots with a minimum of damaging motion. Solid impact is our proof of coordination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Open Stance is the only set-up philosophy that demands efficiency and minimizes damage to our components, states, and coordination. Tempo, and its perfection through set-up discipline, is an eventuality and not a hope. And that\u2019s good because \u201cHope is not a plan\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n