Learn how UCLA standout Jake Knapp generates impressive clubhead speed.

By: John Ortega

Jake Knapp, a standout college golfer at UCLA, has a free-flowing and unrestricted swing. His strong fundamentals and use of his lower body allow him to create clubhead speeds well above even PGA Tour average. Jake uses ample hip and shoulder turn to create that speed; study these images of his swing and see how you can gain speed and power using some of his mechanics.

Address:: Jake stands with a modest amount of knee bend, which allows him to move his entire lower body with great balance and athleticism. Hinging forward from his hips allows him to rotate his trunk and remain forward prone throughout the swing. His arms hang nearly vertical from the shoulder joints, a classic position that allows the arms to move freely, precisely and swiftly.

Near halfway back:: Jake’s arms and trunk rotation are leading the way. However, note the difference in his knee bend compared to address. His right knee has straightened slightly and his left knee bend has increased. Jake’s active use of his feet and knees assist in turning the body.This allows him to reach the top of his swing with exceptional hip and trunk rotation.

Top of the Backswing:: Notice that the end of the grip handle is well above his head. The right elbow and arm are well away from the torso. Like Jack Nicklaus, this gives him a lot ofstretch, leverage and torque to be used for power on the downswing.

Start-Down:: Jake reestablishes his knee bend and increases his hip hinge compared to address. It gives the appearance of an abbreviated squat. These movements allow him to take advantage of the vertical forces that biomechanical researchers are finding in the better ball strikers, who are pushing down with their feet in addition to moving laterally and rotationally.

Impact:: Jake has many techniques to emulate at this point. His weight has transferred from his trailing right leg to his lead left leg, and he posts up on his left leg. This posting action allows for a dynamic and repeatable unwinding of his core and upper body. Ultimately, this action transfers momentum to the arms, hands and the golf club.

Follow through:: The quality of the work Jake has put in on his swing is revealed in the follow through. His footwork and ankle movements support his impressive hip rotation.

Arm and Club Exit:: Near the finish, you can see how much Jake’s weight has shifted and how forcefully he has rotated and released his hips. Also, take notice of his left forearm; it’s vertical to the ground. This is a benchmark to look at when measuring a player’s rotation. Jake’s left wrist being bent back demonstrates a free release of his hands and wrists.

Finish: Starting with the footwork, you can see the amount of weight transfer that took place during the swing. Very little weight remains on his right foot and the majority of his weighthas been transferred left side. A finish that looks like Jake’s usually produces well struck, quality shots.

John Ortega is a PGA Class A Member, and is a member of the SCPGA Teaching Committee. A contributing writer for the SCPGA, John began coaching Jake Knapp when Knapp was 10 years old.