Connection
Also known as: connected swing, body-arm sync
Connection is keeping the arms and body moving together during the swing so the arms never get ahead of or behind the body's rotation, maintaining a consistent arc and face delivery.
Popularized by Jimmy Ballard and adopted widely in instruction, connection describes the syncing of the upper arms to the chest throughout the swing. When the arms "disconnect" — flying up and away from the body — the arc is unpredictable and the path is unreliable. A connected swing keeps the triangle of the hands, arms, and shoulders intact through the backswing, transition, and into impact. The classic drill is placing something under the lead arm to feel the arm staying against the chest.
Example
A player who keeps the lead arm close to the chest throughout the swing is "connected" — the club arc follows the body turn reliably.
Related terms
- TakeawayThe takeaway is the first movement of the club away from the ball. Where and how the club moves in the first 18–24 inches often determines the rest of the backswing shape.
- Arm SwingThe arm swing is the movement of the arms across and around the body during the golf swing, which must coordinate with body rotation to produce a consistent, powerful arc.
- Shoulder TurnShoulder turn is the rotation of the thoracic spine and shoulders during the backswing. A full shoulder turn (near 90°) is the primary source of swing arc and coil — the engine of a powerful backswing.
Related guides & benchmarks
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