How Can I Improve My Golf Swing for Beginners?

Are you tired of hitting a weak slice or shank on the golf course? Want to improve your golf swing and start hitting those straight, powerful shots? Look no further! Improving your golf swing as a beginner can seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and practice, you can transform your game. In this article, we’ll cover some essential tips to help you improve your golf swing, from setting up correctly to executing a smooth, powerful motion. So grab your clubs and let’s get started on improving your golf swing today!

Understanding the Golf Swing

The Mechanics of a Golf Swing

A successful golf swing is built on a foundation of sound mechanics. As a beginner, it is important to understand the basics of the golf swing in order to improve your technique and develop good habits.

Grip

The grip is the first point of contact between you and the club. A correct grip is essential for control and accuracy. A firm, but relaxed grip, with the hands placed in the correct position on the handle, will help to prevent the club from twisting during the swing.

Stance

The stance is the position of the body in relation to the ball and the target. A good stance should be comfortable, balanced, and allow for a full range of motion. The feet should be shoulder-width apart, with the ball positioned in the center of the stance.

Swing Plane

The swing plane is the path that the club head travels during the swing. A correct swing plane is crucial for achieving accuracy and power. The swing plane should be parallel to the intended target line, with the club head moving along a consistent path throughout the swing.

Rotation

Rotation is the circular movement of the body during the swing. Good rotation is essential for generating power and control. The torso should rotate in unison with the arms and club head, creating a smooth, flowing motion.

By focusing on these key mechanics of the golf swing, beginners can develop a solid foundation for improvement and achieve greater success on the course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most crucial aspects of improving your golf swing as a beginner is to avoid common mistakes that can negatively impact your shot. Here are some of the most common mistakes that beginners make:

Swaying

Swaying is a common issue that beginners face while swinging. It occurs when the body sways away from the intended target, leading to a misaligned shot. To avoid swaying, beginners should focus on keeping their weight shifted towards the ball throughout the swing. This can be achieved by keeping the knees bent and the shoulders relaxed.

Casting

Casting is another common mistake that beginners make. It occurs when the clubhead is cast away from the body instead of being swung towards the target. This mistake is often caused by a lack of wrist hinge and an inability to maintain a proper grip on the club. To avoid casting, beginners should focus on maintaining a strong grip and keeping the wrists cocked during the backswing.

Hitting from the toes

Hitting from the toes is a mistake that can cause the ball to be pushed to the right (for right-handed golfers) or to the left (for left-handed golfers). This occurs when the ball is struck before the clubhead has reached the optimal impact position. To avoid hitting from the toes, beginners should focus on keeping the clubhead behind the ball during the backswing and then turning the hips and shoulders through the impact point.

Lifting the head

Lifting the head is a common mistake that can lead to a loss of balance and control during the swing. It occurs when the golfer raises their head up too early, which can cause the body to twist and the arms to become unbalanced. To avoid lifting the head, beginners should focus on keeping their eyes on the ball until it has been struck and then lowering the head to maintain a proper alignment.

Warm-up and Stretching Exercises

Importance of Warm-up and Stretching

As a beginner golfer, it is important to understand the significance of warming up and stretching before you start your swing practice. Here are some key points to consider:

• Increasing flexibility: Golf swings require a range of motion, particularly in the shoulders, hips, and back. Warming up and stretching can help increase your flexibility, making it easier to make a full swing without feeling restricted or in pain.
• Preventing injury: Golf swings can put a lot of strain on your muscles and joints, particularly if you’re not used to the movements involved. Warming up and stretching can help prevent injuries by preparing your body for the physical demands of the swing.
• Improving swing: Stretching can also help improve your swing by increasing your range of motion and improving your balance and stability. Additionally, a proper warm-up can help you get into the right mindset for your swing practice, allowing you to focus on your technique and make improvements.

Overall, taking the time to warm up and stretch before your swing practice is an essential part of improving your golf swing as a beginner. It can help prevent injuries, increase your flexibility, and improve your overall swing technique.

Warm-up Exercises

• Shoulder circles: Shoulder circles are a great way to loosen up your shoulders and get your arms ready for the swing. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and raise one arm out to the side. Make small circles with your arm, gradually increasing the size of the circles. Repeat with the other arm. Do 5-10 reps with each arm.
• Arm swings: Arm swings are a simple exercise that can help loosen up your arms and get them ready for the swing. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a golf club with both hands. Swing the club back and forth, using your arms to generate speed. Keep your upper body still and focus on the movement of your arms. Do 10-15 reps.
• Hip rotations: Hip rotations are important for developing a powerful and efficient golf swing. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a golf club with both hands. Shift your weight onto your back leg and rotate your hips, bringing the club with you. Make sure to keep your upper body still and focus on the movement of your hips. Do 10-15 reps with each leg.

Stretching Exercises

Warming up before golfing is essential for preventing injury and improving performance. However, it is equally important to include stretching exercises in your warm-up routine. Stretching helps to increase flexibility, range of motion, and reduces the risk of injury. Here are some effective stretching exercises for golfers:

Hamstring Stretch

The hamstrings are a group of muscles located at the back of the thigh. They are responsible for bending the knee and extending the hip. Tight hamstrings can cause back pain, hinder movement, and affect your golf swing. To stretch your hamstrings, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing forward. Lean forward, keeping your back straight, until you feel a stretch in your hamstrings. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat three times.

Calf Stretch

The calf muscles are located at the back of the lower leg and are responsible for plantarflexion, which is the movement that pushes your foot away from your shin. Tight calf muscles can cause pain and affect your balance and swing. To stretch your calf muscles, stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at shoulder height. Shift your weight onto one foot and bend your knee slightly. Lean into the wall until you feel a stretch in your calf. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat three times on each leg.

Triceps Stretch

The triceps muscles are located at the back of the upper arm and are responsible for extending the elbow and pushing the shoulder forward. Tight triceps can cause pain and limit your range of motion. To stretch your triceps, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing forward. Raise one arm straight up and bend your elbow until you feel a stretch in your triceps. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat three times on each arm.

Incorporating these stretching exercises into your warm-up routine can help improve your golf swing and prevent injury. It is important to stretch gently and avoid bouncing or pushing into the stretch. Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat three times on each side to ensure a full warm-up.

Improving Your Golf Swing

The Basics

A proper grip is crucial for a successful golf swing. The most common grip used by golfers is the overlapping grip, where the little finger of the left hand (for right-handed golfers) overlaps the index finger of the right hand. This grip provides a stable and consistent point of contact between the hands and the club.

Your stance is another fundamental aspect of your golf swing. A good stance ensures balance, stability, and proper alignment. For a right-handed golfer, the left foot should be slightly in front of the right foot, with the knees bent and leaning slightly forward. The hips and shoulders should be facing the target, and the arms should be relaxed and hang naturally from the shoulders.

Ball position

The position of the ball in your stance is essential for a proper golf swing. For most golfers, the ball should be placed slightly forward of the center of their stance. This promotes a smooth and natural swing motion, reducing the chances of hooking or slicing the ball. The ball should also be positioned in line with the target for optimal results.

Posture

Proper posture is critical in creating a solid golf swing. Stand up straight, with your shoulders relaxed and your chest facing the target. Keep your head still and your eyes focused on the ball. Avoid leaning too far forward or backward, as this can affect your balance and swing mechanics. A proper posture ensures that your body is in the right position to make a powerful and accurate swing.

Swing Techniques

Improving your golf swing requires dedication, practice, and attention to detail. Here are some essential techniques to help you improve your golf swing as a beginner:

• Keeping the spine angle: Maintaining a proper spine angle during your swing is crucial. This angle helps you to maintain balance and control throughout the swing. To achieve this, you should rotate your hips and shoulders, keeping your spine straight and in line with your target.
• Using the legs: The legs play a vital role in the golf swing. They provide power and stability, so it’s important to use them correctly. As you approach the ball, you should shift your weight onto your back leg, and as you make contact with the ball, transfer your weight to your front leg. This will help you to generate power and control.
• Keeping the arms and hands loose: It’s essential to keep your arms and hands loose during the swing to maintain control and avoid tension. To achieve this, you should keep your elbows bent and your wrists relaxed. As you swing, your arms should move naturally, with your hands maintaining a natural grip on the club.
• Finishing the swing: After making contact with the ball, you should continue to swing through to the finish. This involves bringing your arms and club back to the starting position, with your hands above your shoulders. This finish helps to maintain balance and control and ensures that you make the most of your swing.

By focusing on these swing techniques, you can improve your golf swing and develop the skills needed to become a proficient golfer.

Practice Drills

Improving your golf swing requires dedication, patience, and practice. Here are some essential practice drills that can help you enhance your swing and improve your overall game.

Waggling

Waggling is a practice drill that involves making small swings with your club, allowing you to feel the clubhead’s weight and get a sense of the correct swing path. To perform a waggle, stand behind the ball with your feet shoulder-width apart, hold the club with both hands, and make small swings back and forth. This drill helps you develop a smooth takeaway, transition, and acceleration through the ball.

Ball Toss

The ball toss drill is an excellent way to develop a consistent and accurate ball strike. To perform this drill, toss the ball up towards the sky, then swing the club and hit the ball as it comes down. Focus on making solid contact with the ball and maintaining a smooth and controlled swing. This drill will help you develop a sense of timing and rhythm, which is crucial for hitting the ball accurately.

Irons Swing

Irons are the clubs used for short-distance shots and are essential for improving your accuracy and control around the green. To practice your irons swing, set up a few balls in a row, and focus on making solid contact with each one. Pay attention to your body position, grip, and swing path, ensuring that you maintain a smooth and consistent motion throughout the swing. This drill will help you develop the muscle memory needed to hit accurate shots with your irons.

These practice drills are just a few examples of the many exercises that can help you improve your golf swing. By incorporating these drills into your practice routine, you can develop the skills and confidence needed to become a better golfer.

Mental Game

Understanding the Mental Aspect of Golf

The mental aspect of golf is often overlooked by beginners, but it plays a crucial role in one’s overall performance on the course. To improve your golf swing as a beginner, it’s important to understand and develop your mental game.

Pressure

Golf is a sport that can be both mentally and physically challenging. The pressure to perform well can be overwhelming, especially for beginners who are still learning the game. However, it’s important to understand that pressure is a natural part of the game and can be managed with the right mindset.

One way to manage pressure is to focus on the process rather than the outcome. Instead of worrying about making a certain score or hitting a specific shot, focus on the mechanics of your swing and the techniques you’ve learned in practice. By focusing on the process, you’ll be less likely to feel overwhelmed by the pressure of the game.

Confidence

Confidence is a key factor in any sport, and golf is no exception. As a beginner, it’s natural to feel unsure of your abilities and question your swing. However, it’s important to build confidence in your own skills and trust in your ability to improve.

One way to build confidence is to set realistic goals for yourself. Whether it’s hitting the ball a certain distance or reducing your score by a few strokes, setting achievable goals can help you feel more confident in your abilities. Additionally, focusing on your strengths and accomplishments can help boost your confidence on the course.

Focus

Focus is crucial in any sport, and golf is no exception. To improve your golf swing, it’s important to maintain a clear and focused mind throughout your shot. This means avoiding distractions and staying committed to your shot from start to finish.

One way to improve your focus is to use visualization techniques. Imagine yourself making a successful shot, from the start of your swing to the follow-through. This can help you stay focused and committed to your shot, even in high-pressure situations. Additionally, taking deep breaths and practicing mindfulness techniques can help you stay centered and focused on the task at hand.

Building Mental Toughness

In golf, the mental game is just as important as the physical aspect. Building mental toughness is crucial for beginners who may struggle with their confidence on the course. Here are some tips to help you build mental toughness in your golf game:

• Visualization: Visualization is a powerful tool that can help you improve your golf swing. Before you start your swing, take a moment to visualize the perfect shot. See the ball flying towards the hole, and feel the satisfaction of making a great shot. This visualization can help you stay focused and calm during your swing, and it can also help you make adjustments to your swing if necessary.
• Positive self-talk: The way you talk to yourself can have a big impact on your performance on the course. If you’re struggling with a particular shot, try to reframe your thoughts in a positive way. Instead of saying “I can’t make this shot,” say “I can make this shot.” Positive self-talk can help you stay confident and motivated, even when things aren’t going well.
• Deep breathing: Golf can be a stressful sport, and deep breathing can help you stay calm and focused. Take a deep breath before you start your swing, and exhale slowly as you make contact with the ball. This can help you slow down your heart rate and clear your mind, allowing you to make a more focused and accurate shot.

By incorporating these tips into your golf game, you can improve your mental toughness and build the confidence you need to succeed on the course.

Dealing with Distractions

When it comes to improving your golf swing as a beginner, it’s important to recognize the role that your mental game plays. One key aspect of this is learning how to deal with distractions that may arise during your swing. Here are some tips to help you stay focused and maintain concentration:

• Staying in the present: It’s easy to get caught up in thoughts about the past or future, but when it comes to your golf swing, it’s important to stay in the present moment. This means focusing on the current shot and not worrying about whether you made a good or bad shot on the previous hole. By staying in the present, you can give your full attention to the task at hand and make the most of your current shot.
• Ignoring external factors: Golf courses are often surrounded by a variety of external factors that can distract you from your swing, such as noise from other players or the wind. It’s important to learn how to tune out these distractions and focus on the internal factors that will help you make a good shot. This might include visualizing your swing, focusing on your breathing, or repeating a mantra to yourself.
• Maintaining concentration: It’s easy to lose focus during a round of golf, especially if you’re playing with others who may be chatting or making noise. To maintain your concentration, try to find a quiet spot on the course where you can take a few moments to focus on your shot before hitting it. You can also try using visualization techniques to help you stay focused, such as imagining the ball flying towards the hole before you actually swing.

By practicing these tips, you can improve your mental game and learn how to deal with distractions that may arise during your golf swing. This will help you stay focused and make the most of your shots, ultimately leading to improved performance on the course.

Incorporating Mental Training into Your Practice Routine

Mental training is an essential aspect of improving your golf swing as a beginner. It can help you develop the necessary focus, confidence, and resilience to perform at your best on the course. Here are some ways to incorporate mental training into your practice routine:

Warm-up exercises

Before you start practicing your swing, take some time to warm up your body and mind. This can include stretching, light exercise, and deep breathing. These activities can help you prepare for the physical and mental demands of your practice session.

Practice drills

During your practice sessions, it’s essential to focus on specific aspects of your swing, such as your grip, stance, and posture. You can use practice drills to help you develop these aspects of your swing. For example, you can practice your grip by holding a club with different hand positions, or you can practice your posture by standing in front of a mirror and adjusting your stance.

Post-round analysis

After each round of golf, take some time to analyze your performance and identify areas for improvement. This can include reviewing your swings on video, analyzing your scorecard, or discussing your performance with a coach or mentor. By reflecting on your performance, you can identify patterns and make adjustments to your swing.

Incorporating mental training into your practice routine can help you develop the mental skills necessary to improve your golf swing. By focusing on your physical and mental preparation, you can improve your confidence, focus, and resilience on the course.

Equipment and Gear

Choosing the Right Clubs

Selecting the appropriate golf clubs is crucial for a beginner, as it can greatly impact the quality of your shots. To ensure that you have the right set of clubs, consider the following factors:

1. Clubhead Speed: Clubhead speed plays a significant role in determining the distance and accuracy of your shots. If your swing speed is slow, you may want to opt for clubs with a higher loft, which will help the ball to travel further. On the other hand, if your swing speed is fast, you may want to consider clubs with a lower loft, which will allow you to hit the ball further.
2. Shaft Flex: The flex of the shaft can also impact your shots. If you have a slow swing speed, a shaft with a higher flex point may be more suitable. Conversely, if you have a fast swing speed, a shaft with a lower flex point may be better.
3. Club Length: Club length is another important factor to consider. For beginners, it is recommended to use clubs that are appropriately sized for your height and swing. Clubs that are too long or too short can result in a loss of control and accuracy.
4. Type of Club: Different golf clubs are designed for different types of shots. For example, drivers are typically used for long, straight shots, while irons are used for shorter, higher lofted shots. Wedges are used for specialized shots, such as chip shots and bunker shots, while putters are used for putting on the green.
5. Budget: Lastly, your budget can also play a role in determining which clubs to purchase. High-end clubs can be expensive, but they may offer improved performance. On the other hand, entry-level clubs can be more affordable, but may not offer the same level of performance.

Golf Balls

Choosing the right golf ball is crucial for beginners as it can affect the distance, accuracy, and spin of your shots. There are different types of golf balls available in the market, each designed for specific playing conditions and skill levels. Here are some of the most popular golf balls used by beginners:

• Three-piece balls: These balls have a soft feel and are designed for players who prioritize control and accuracy over distance. They have a three-layer construction with a soft core, a firmer middle layer, and a hard outer layer.
• Two-piece balls: These balls are designed for players who want more distance and less spin. They have a two-layer construction with a hard core and a thin outer layer.
• Tour balls: These balls are designed for advanced players who have a fast swing speed and need a ball that can handle high-speed impacts. They have a four-layer construction with a hard core, a soft middle layer, a firm middle layer, and a soft outer layer.

When choosing a golf ball, it’s important to consider your playing ability, swing speed, and the conditions of the course you’ll be playing on. For beginners, it’s recommended to use a three-piece ball as it provides a soft feel and good control around the greens. As you progress and gain more experience, you can experiment with different types of golf balls to find the one that best suits your game.

Golf Shoes

When it comes to improving your golf swing as a beginner, having the right equipment is crucial. One essential piece of gear that you’ll need is a good pair of golf shoes. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right golf shoes for your needs:

• Spiked vs. spikeless: Traditional golf shoes have metal spikes that can provide excellent traction on the golf course. However, they can also be quite heavy and may not be suitable for playing on wet or soft ground. Spikeless golf shoes, on the other hand, are lighter and more versatile, making them a good option for beginners who may not yet have mastered their swing.
• Lightweight vs. supportive: Some golf shoes are designed to be lightweight and flexible, while others are more supportive and provide better stability. If you’re a beginner, you may want to opt for a pair of shoes that offer more support, as this can help you maintain your balance and swing more accurately.
• Waterproof vs. breathable: Golf shoes can be made from a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic fabrics, and waterproof membranes. If you’re playing in wet or humid conditions, you may want to choose a pair of shoes that are waterproof and breathable. This can help keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout your round.

Ultimately, the right golf shoes for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s a good idea to try on several different pairs of shoes before making a purchase, and to consider factors like fit, comfort, and support when making your decision.

Golf Accessories

Golf Bag

A golf bag is an essential piece of equipment for any golfer. It is designed to carry all the necessary items needed for a round of golf, such as clubs, balls, tees, and gloves. There are various types of golf bags available, including carry bags, cart bags, and stand bags. Beginners should consider investing in a bag that is comfortable to carry and has enough storage space for all their gear.

Tees

Golf tees are small pegs used to elevate the golf ball for tee shots. They come in various sizes and materials, such as plastic, wood, or metal. For beginners, it is recommended to use a standard size tee that is 2.8 inches (7.1 cm) tall. This size provides enough elevation for the ball to be easily hit while still maintaining a proper ball position.

Glove

A golf glove is worn on the hands to improve grip and control during the swing. It is essential to choose a glove that fits well and provides adequate grip on the club. Beginners should look for a glove with a tacky surface that allows for a firm grip on the club. A glove with a moisture-wicking material can also help keep the hands dry and comfortable during a round of golf.

Rangefinder

A rangefinder is a device used to measure the distance to the golf hole or other objects on the course. It is particularly useful when playing approach shots or calculating the distance to hazards and other obstacles. There are two types of rangefinders: laser rangefinders and GPS rangefinders. Laser rangefinders work by emitting a laser beam that measures the distance to the target, while GPS rangefinders use satellite technology to calculate distances. Beginners should consider investing in a rangefinder to improve their accuracy and distance control on the course.

Recap of Key Points

Improving your golf swing is not just about the right equipment and gear. However, having the right tools can make a significant difference in your performance. Here are some key points to keep in mind when it comes to equipment and gear for beginners:

• Understanding the golf swing: Before investing in any equipment, it is essential to understand the basics of the golf swing. This includes the correct grip, stance, and swing technique.
• Warm-up and stretching exercises: Warming up and stretching before playing golf can help prevent injuries and improve your performance. Make sure to stretch your muscles, especially your back, shoulders, and wrists.
• Improving your golf swing: The right equipment can help you improve your golf swing. For example, using a driver with a higher loft can help you hit the ball further and straighter.
• Mental game: Your mental game is also crucial in improving your golf swing. Focus on your swing and stay positive, even if you make mistakes.
• Equipment and gear: When it comes to equipment and gear, it is essential to choose the right clubs, balls, and accessories for your skill level and playing style.

In summary, while having the right equipment and gear is important, it is only one aspect of improving your golf swing. It is essential to understand the basics of the golf swing, warm up and stretch before playing, focus on your mental game, and choose the right equipment for your skill level and playing style.

Final Tips and Advice

Improving your golf swing as a beginner can be a challenging task, but with the right mindset and approach, it is definitely achievable. Here are some final tips and advice to help you improve your golf swing:

Be patient

Improving your golf swing takes time and patience. Don’t expect to see significant improvements overnight. It’s important to practice regularly and stick to your routine, even if you don’t see immediate results. Remember, golf is a game of precision and accuracy, and it takes time to develop the necessary skills.

Practice regularly

Consistent practice is key to improving your golf swing. Set aside time each day or week to practice your swing, whether it’s on the driving range or in your backyard. Repetition is important to develop muscle memory and to ingrain proper swing mechanics.

Get professional help if needed

If you’re struggling to improve your golf swing, consider seeking professional help. A golf instructor can provide personalized feedback and guidance to help you identify and correct any flaws in your swing. They can also provide tips and drills to help you improve your swing mechanics and develop your overall game.

Have fun!

Remember, golf is a game, and it’s important to have fun while playing. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to perform well, and don’t get discouraged if you make mistakes. Enjoy the process of learning and improving, and take pride in your progress. Golf is a lifelong sport, and there’s always room for improvement, no matter how good you become.

FAQs

1. What are the basic principles of a good golf swing for beginners?

The basic principles of a good golf swing for beginners include grip, stance, and alignment. A firm grip on the club with the hands positioned appropriately on the handle, a comfortable stance with the feet shoulder-width apart, and proper alignment of the body, eyes, and the intended target are essential.

2. How should I position my body during the swing?

Your body should be positioned with your weight shifted to your back foot, allowing for a smooth transition to the forward foot during the swing. Keep your head down, eyes focused on the ball, and your arms relaxed. Maintain a straight back and avoid rotating your hips too much, as this can lead to a loss of power and accuracy.

3. What is the correct way to grip the golf club for beginners?

The correct way to grip the golf club for beginners is with the palms facing each other and the hands slightly bent. Place the fingers over the club handle, with the thumbs pointing down towards the ground. The grip should be firm but not too tight, allowing for natural wrist movement during the swing.

4. How should I stand when preparing to swing?

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with the ball positioned slightly forward in your stance. Ensure your knees are slightly bent and your weight is distributed evenly on both feet. Your body should be relaxed, with your head down and eyes focused on the ball.

5. What is the proper way to swing the golf club for beginners?

The proper way to swing the golf club for beginners involves a smooth, rhythmic motion. Begin with a slow, controlled backswing, rotating your shoulders and keeping your arms extended. As you approach the top of the backswing, transfer your weight to your back foot. On the downswing, shift your weight forward and use your legs to power the club through impact. Finish with a smooth follow-through, allowing your arms to naturally return to the golf bag.

6. How can I improve my accuracy when swinging a golf club?

To improve your accuracy when swinging a golf club, focus on keeping your eyes on the ball throughout the swing. Avoid lifting your head or shifting your focus, as this can cause misalignment and poor contact. Maintain a consistent rhythm and tempo, ensuring your body stays in sync with the swing. Practice your aim and use a target-oriented approach to improve your accuracy over time.

7. How can I increase my swing speed for better distance?

To increase your swing speed for better distance, focus on a smooth, powerful motion. Use your legs and core to generate speed, and avoid relying solely on your arms. Maintain a rhythmic tempo and keep your body relaxed throughout the swing. Practice swinging at a faster pace by using lighter clubs or practicing with shorter, controlled swings. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the swing.