The Most Difficult Part of the Swing

In this episode of the Athletic Motion Golf Podcast, hosts Mike Granato and Shaun Webb dive into what they believe is the most misunderstood—and most difficult—part of the golf swing: the transition. Specifically, they explore the “middle part” of the swing, the split-second moment between backswing and downswing that separates pros from amateurs.

Most amateur golfers finish their backswing and start everything down at once—hips, arms, and club all move together. In contrast, elite players like Xander Schauffele maintain just enough rotational reserve to create a dynamic, sequenced transition. That stretch and separation allow for more clubhead speed, better face control, and fewer injuries.

Mike and Shaun make the case for thinking of the golf swing as a unified “windup” instead of two distinct motions—backswing and downswing. They share lessons from tour pros, insights from motion capture data, and drills like continuous motion swings to help you feel the right stretch and sequencing in your own game.