Smooth Takeaway Secrets: How to Eliminate Tension and Start Your Golf Swing Like a Pro
If you’ve ever felt frozen over the ball—locked in place, tight with tension—you’re not alone. Countless golfers fall victim to what I call the “statue effect.” The good news? A smooth, tension-free takeaway is just one solid trigger away.
In this lesson, you’ll discover four proven golf swing triggers used by tour professionals to create a natural, flowing start to every swing. Master these moves, and you’ll set the stage for better rhythm, contact, and effortless power.
👉 For personalized coaching, visit MAKE THE TURN Golf Performance Online Lessons.
🎥 Watch the full lesson below!
👉 Watch Jeff Ritter share four proven golf swing triggers to eliminate tension and create a smooth, effortless takeaway!
Why Golf Swing Triggers Matter
A static setup kills motion before it starts. The longer you stare at the ball, the tighter your muscles become, making it nearly impossible to move freely.
Professional golfers avoid this by using a trigger—a simple body cue that sparks motion and keeps tension at bay. The best part? Each of these triggers builds athletic sequence into your takeaway automatically.
The Core Principle: Motion Toward the Target Creates a Smooth Start
Here’s the surprising truth:
Your swing away from the target begins with a move toward it.
This concept, championed by top coach Jim McLean, builds flow and rhythm from the ground up. When your first move is grounded, connected, and purposeful, the rest of your swing unfolds naturally.
4 Proven Golf Swing Triggers
1. Lead Foot Pressure
The simplest and most reliable trigger. Before taking the club back, press slightly into your lead foot. As your body senses that pressure, it instinctively shifts to the trail side to start the backswing smoothly.
2. Trail Heel Lift and Replant
Lift your trail heel about half an inch, then replant it as your signal to move. That subtle heel action initiates the motion sequence while keeping your lower body engaged and balanced.
3. Gary Player Knee Kick
Gary Player’s famous “knee kick” move gets the body moving dynamically. Gently kick your trail knee toward your lead knee before starting the backswing—this applies pressure into the lead foot and sets your pivot in motion.
4. Matthew Wolff / Sam Snead Rotation
A classic move with modern flair. Slightly rotate your hips or lower body toward the target, then let that action naturally initiate your takeaway. This pre-motion creates flow, and athletic movement without tension.
Avoid the Common Mistake: The Risky Forward Press
A forward press done ONLY with the hands may look like a trigger—but it’s a trap. Independent hand motion can twist the clubface, distort your takeaway, and throw off timing.
Instead, let all handle movement stem from your body-driven trigger, not your hands.
Train Smart This Off-Season
You don’t need a driving range to groove your triggers. Practice at home with a mirror, or hit wiffle balls in your garage. Focus on feel—the sense of sequence and flow—rather than ball flight. When spring returns, your motion will already be smooth, athletic, and ready for performance.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready for personalized feedback, video swing analysis, or in-person coaching, I’d love to help.
