EJS GOLF BLOG
Learn about the golf swing and what you can do to improve your score on the golf course. Fill out the form below if you have any questions or want to set up a time to talk.
Mastering the Art of Golf with Coach Erik Schjolberg
Welcome to my blog at EJS Golf Academy, the premier destination for mastering the art of golf. Here at our Scottsdale location, at McCormick Ranch Golf Club, every golfer who steps into my world-class teaching bay discovers a pathway to enhance their game. My name is Coach Erik Schjolberg, and I am committed to transforming your golf skills through a combination of cutting-edge technology and personalized coaching techniques.
At EJS Golf, we understand that every golfer's journey is unique. Whether you are a PGA Tour professional, a college athlete, a developing junior, or a weekend enthusiast, our blog is designed to provide you with insights and strategies to improve your game. Our posts are not just about golf; they are about becoming a better player through deliberate practice and scientific understanding of golf mechanics.
Explore Our Blogs
Hit the Rory McIlroy Ryder Cup Spinner
How Did Rory Hit That Spinning Chip Shot in the 2023 Ryder Cup? Find out here!
Hey friends and fellow golfers! Coach Erik Schjolberg here from EJS Golf Academy. Many of you have asked me about that incredible shot by Rory at the Ryder Cup on hole 17. It was truly remarkable, with the ball staying low and having an impressive amount of spin. In this short video, I will explain how he achieved such an amazing shot.
Now, before we dive into the details, I want to mention that I have other videos that go into depth about adding spin to your shots. You can find those on my YouTube Channel. You will find other techniques used by the other professional golfers I coach and amateurs just like you.
Rory McIlroy played the ball off his back foot with the face of the club open. You're probably wondering why he did that. Well, playing the ball off the back foot allows him to have more control and feel with his hands. By keeping the face open, he can create the sensation of closing it slightly, similar to executing a draw shot.
Let me demonstrate how he did it.
The ball was struck with a low trajectory and had an incredible spin rate of around 8000 RPMs. The launch angle was approximately 28 degrees, which resulted in a similar carry distance. By incorporating a rotational movement resembling a draw shot, Rory was able to generate immense spin while keeping the ball flight low.
This technique is quite impressive and requires precise execution. However, with practice and dedication, you can add a touch of Rory's magic to your own game.
Adding spin to your shots can be advantageous in certain situations. It allows you to control the ball's trajectory and optimize its performance on the green. Additionally, a shot with high spin can stop quickly upon landing, preventing it from rolling too far away from the target.
To replicate Rory's technique, start by positioning the ball slightly back in your stance. This will ensure contact is made before the club reaches its lowest point in the swing arc, creating that low trajectory. Then, open the clubface slightly, which will give you more freedom with your hands and make it easier to close the face during impact.
As you swing through the ball, focus on rotating your forearms, almost as if you were trying to draw the shot. This action generates the necessary spin while maintaining a low ball flight. Remember, it may take some time to perfect this technique, so be patient and keep practicing.
Now, let's talk about why Rory chose this particular shot. The situation on hole 17 at the Ryder Cup likely called for a low and spinning shot. The pin was located on an elevated green, surrounded by obstacles. By playing the ball off his back foot and with an open face, Rory could control the trajectory, ensuring the ball stayed low enough to avoid any hazards. The added spin allowed him to stop the ball quickly on the green, reducing the risk of it rolling past or off the surface.
I want to clear up the difference between height and spin for stopping a golf ball. Height vs. spin is no contest. If you want to have the most control over your golf shot, learn to execute spin on your chips and pitches vs. trying to hit lob shots. The outcome from the lob shot is much less controllable than a spinning pitch shot.
It's important to note that this technique may not be suitable for every situation. Golf is a sport that requires adaptability, and shot selection depends on variables such as wind, pin position, and hazards. Nevertheless, learning different shot variations and understanding their advantages will undoubtedly improve your overall game.
In conclusion, Rory's incredible shot at the Ryder Cup was the result of skillful execution and smart shot selection. By playing the ball off his back foot and utilizing an open clubface, he was able to achieve a low trajectory with tremendous spin. Incorporating his technique into your own game can enhance your shot-making abilities and give you greater control over the ball.
Thank you for watching this short video, and I hope you found this explanation helpful. If you want to learn more about adding spin to your shots or other golf techniques, feel free to check out my other videos on the EJS Golf Academy channel. Until next time, keep practicing, and may your shots be as impressive as Rory's!
What You Can Expect from Our Blog
1. Expert Insights on Swing Mechanics:
With over 25 years of experience as a PGA Professional Golf Instructor, I delve deep into the nuances of golf swing mechanics. My articles break down complex theories into understandable concepts, focusing on ground reaction forces (GRFs), biomechanics, and efficient energy transfer.
2. Advanced Technological Guidance:
Our academy is equipped with state-of-the-art tools like the Trackman 4 Launch Monitor, 3D Pressure Plates, and Hackmotion, among others. On the blog, I share how to leverage these technologies to gain precise feedback on your swing, helping you make informed adjustments and see measurable improvements.
3. Tailored Practice Routines:
My philosophy is built on the belief that improvement should be evident from the first lesson. I advocate a '15 minutes per day' practice model, designed to fit into your busy schedule while ensuring consistent progress. Each blog post aims to offer practice drills and routines that are easy to implement and effective in refining your skills.
4. Real Success Stories:
Read about the experiences of those who have trained at EJS Golf Academy. These testimonials not only inspire but also illustrate the practical application of our teaching methodologies and the real results achieved.
5. Interactive Learning:
We occasionally feature video tutorials and interactive content that allows you to visually grasp techniques and corrections. This blended approach helps reinforce learning and allows you to engage with the content actively.
How Our Blog Helps Golfers Get Better
Every post is crafted with the intent to educate. We cover everything from basic fundamentals to advanced techniques, ensuring there's something valuable for every skill level. By presenting data and evidence-backed strategies, our blog demystifies the 'why' and 'how' behind effective golf training. This analytical approach empowers you to make smarter decisions about your practice and play. We understand that generic advice does not suit everyone. Our blog posts are designed to help you identify your own needs and adapt our techniques accordingly. Whether it’s adjusting your grip, stance, or swing path, you’ll find personalized tips that resonate with your specific challenges. Beyond just reading, our blog serves as a community hub where you can interact with fellow golfers and share your experiences. This supportive environment encourages learning and improvement through collective wisdom.
Join Us on Your Path to Mastery
Whether you’re looking to refine your swing, understand the biomechanics of your body, or simply get more enjoyment out of the game, our blog at EJS Golf Academy is your go-to resource. Bookmark our page, subscribe to updates, and start transforming your game today.
Remember, at EJS Golf, we don’t just teach golf; we craft master golfers. Let’s begin this journey together. Visit us atEJSGolf.com to learn more about our programs and start your training online or at our Scottsdale location. Let’s make every swing count!
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I've taken multiple private lessons with Erik and he's been by far the best swing coach I have ever worked with. He has the ability to dissect your swing and make small changes for big improvements. What I love most about his lessons is they go far beyond the 1 or 2 hours you're with him. He follows up with videos of how you can improve at home and on the range. The value he provides is absolutely worth the cost of his sessions. I would recommend any golfer at any level who truly wants to get better to go see Erik.”
- Reanol H.
Erik is the best! and that is not an exaggeration. There has not been a single lesson where I haven't walked out and felt like a far better golfer than before. What can't be praised enough is the effort and dedication that Eric puts into each of his students, as his approach to fixing and improving my golf swing was specific to me. While teaching, Erik takes the extra time to truly dive into what he is trying to convey rather than just telling you, allowing for a better understanding. Beyond the instruction at the course, Erik sends specific drills to you from an app that allows for slow motion replays, letting you break down everything and work on your game at any time. I genuinely mean it when I say that I would recommend Erik to anyone wanting to improve their golf game, as he is not only a top not instructor but also a top notch person who cares about his students.
- Brennan K.
Erik is flat out a great coach and mentor! I highly recommend him! Working from the ground up, my swing is healthier and smooth! I wanted a coach that shared the same main principles as the late Tony Manzoni and Erik hits the mark! Found Erik by listening to the Golf Smarter podcast by Fred Greene and connected with EJS Golf through the Perfect Motion app. Erik is motivated and incredibly gifted at his craft!
- Bryan B., Indiana, USA
