PGA instructor Chris Ryan identifies three critical takeaway errors common among amateurs: moving the hands too far outside, losing swing width through trail arm collapse, and snatching the club with poor tempo. Using an alignment stick drill and feel-based cues, he demonstrates how to maintain connection and rhythm for a more consistent backswing. These techniques ensure the club stays on plane and the body stays in sync from the very first move.
Keep the hands closer to the body during the first 18 inches to prevent the club from diving behind you.
Avoid rotating the forearms too early, which opens the clubface and ruins the swing plane.
Maintain 'width' by keeping outward pressure in the arms, preventing the trail arm from folding prematurely.
The takeaway should be smooth and rhythmic; use waggles to feel the club's weight and avoid snatching the club away.
Use an alignment stick against your lead hip to monitor if your hands are moving too far away from your body at the start.