Clay Ballard from Top Speed Golf explains how lead wrist flexibility dictates whether a golfer should bow or cup their wrist at the top of the backswing. He demonstrates a quick lead hand test to determine individual mobility and shows how proper forearm crossover through impact creates maximum lag, speed, and clean release without a chicken wing.
Perform the lead hand fist test to see if your anatomy naturally supports a bowed wrist position without losing grip pressure.
Forcing a bowed wrist without necessary joint mobility can lead to a loss of lag and decreased clubhead speed.
Golfers with restricted wrist flexion benefit from a slightly stronger grip and a neutral to slightly cupped lead wrist to preserve lag.
Allow forearms to roll over into an 'X' pattern by chest-high in the follow-through to achieve proper pro-style release and cure a chicken wing.