AboutMichael Hoffman Expertise I have been a golf professional since 1981. I was elected into the PGA in 1987. I attained my master clubfitter certificate in 1992. I have given thousands of lessons over the years and I can answer questions about instruction, golf in general, rules, equipment, practice techniques etc.
I have served served ojn the board of directors of the Southern Texas PGA for twelve years and was the President from 2002-2003.
Experience I started as as assistant golf professional in 1981. I have been a head golf professional at several clubs as well as the general manager at two clubs. I am master clubfitter and have given many individual as well as group lessons over the years. I was the President of the Southern Texas PGA 4 years ago. I have been a rules official for the tour qualifying school as well as other events. I have won the Merchandiser of the year award in our section twice.
Expert: Michael Hoffman Date: 6/30/2008 Subject: shorten the shafts on golf clubs ?
Question Hi Mike,
I'm a senior golfer. Recently, I developed pain and stiffness in my shoulders which limits my left shoulder turn on my backswing. I was toying with the idea of shortening the shafts on my clubs which I assume would enable me to use more of an upright backswing . I was advised by a pro shop owner that a shorter shafted club would throw the swing weight off. The truth is that I know nothing about swing weight ! I remember years back, hitting with a #2 wood with a shortened shaft and I had much more control hitting the ball and the distance didn't suffer either. In fact, I hit the ball much further than with the other clubs .
In your expert opinion, do you think that it advisable to shorten the shafts, or perhaps choke down a little more on each club? Thank you kindly for any help that you can offer in this regard.
Joe
Answer Joe,
Instead of doing anything to your clubs, let's try the following first. If your limited in your backswing because of your shoulder ailment, try using your arms and hands more during your swing. This will enable you to take a fairly long backswing and generate enough clubhead speed to meet your satisfaction. When you try this be aware of where your shots go and see the patterns of your divots.
