PHOTO PROVIDED Start the swing with the shoulders.

The shoulder coil energizes the swing. The resistance between the upper and lower body creates the energy to strike a ball crisp. Like coiling a spring, one end is held while the other is turned.

If the shoulders do not coil the hands and arms become disconnected from the big muscles. Without a good shoulder turn, the hands are doing all the work and are not in the proper position at the top of the swing.

Many golfers raise their hands high and think they are turning their shoulders, but it’s a false feeling. The front shoulder must start the takeaway; turn the shoulder blade behind the ball or as far as your physical condition will allow. The hands stop when the shoulder stops; the shoulder turn dictates how high the hands go.

Don’t forget to enjoy this great game called golf.

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