Four steps to a perfect position at the top:
Getting into a good position at the top is important because it sets you up to make the proper downswing from inside the target line into the ball. An easy way to learn what a good position at the top feels like is to do this simple exercise:
Address the ball as you normally would, bending over at the waist, with your arms and knees slightly flexed (top left photo). Then, while maintaining your address posture, lift the club and lay it on your right shoulder next to your neck, with your elbows bent and close together (top right photo). Now turn your shoulders and hips away from the target exactly as you would if you were making a full backswing (bottom left photo). When your turn is complete, simply extend your left arm out until it’s nearly straight (bottom right photo).
Now you’re in a good position at the top of your swing. Practice this whenever you can—you can even do it at home in front of a mirror—so when it comes time to play, swinging into the proper backswing position will feel like second nature.
MORE THOUGHTS FROM TOM:
Bernhard Langer had a big year on the Champions Tour in 2010, including winning the U.S. Senior Open, the Senior British Open and three other tournaments. His biggest strength is his preparation. He and his caddies spend more time charting the courses we play than anybody else. Jack Nicklaus used to say the same thing about his own success.
