PHOTO PROVIDED Hips and hands should start the downswing together.

A common denominator among good players is a smooth transition from the backswing to the downswing. The swing speed should increase gradually while maintaining good balance.

Several things are required to create a smooth transition from start to finish. First, a golfer must be in the proper position at address and maintain the spine angle until impact. Second, the left shoulder should take the club back with a one piece take away.

Third, the hands, club and right hip must be timed to meet at impact.

Practice swing by allowing the right hip and the hands to start the downswing together. The hands drop as much as the hip moves toward the ball, somewhat of a pumping motion, as if there was a rope connected to the left hip and the hands.

It should feel as if the left hip is pulling the grip toward the ball. The hands separate from the right shoulder in a downward motion. The entire right side should finish the swing with the shoulders, hips, and knees level, facing the target.

Don’t misinterpret a smooth swing as a slow swing; you can swing aggressively, with a smooth, well-balanced motion.

Rick Musselman, golf author and professional, is the founder of Musselman’s Golf in Williamsport.