I’ve been watching and learning from Julian for a couple of years now. I found his videos based on trying to find a swing method that didn’t cause me any back pain. I injured my back in my early 20’s, from a bad fall off a roof while working. The pain I endured swinging like Julian describes early in this video (the way I was taught when I was young, think X factor type swing, with lead foot planted and heavy torsion on my lower back) for 25 years was getting to the point that I wasn’t enjoying the game any longer, and my scores were just getting worse each year. I put in the time to really get comfortable with Julian’s swing method, and I play pain free golf now. My scores are continuing to improve, and I’m down to an 11 index, and feel like I can get to a single digit index this year. My ball striking is more consistent then ever. I played 27 holes yesterday! My back feels fantastic and I shot 83, then 39. I’m in love with the game again, and looking forward to playing pain free for the rest of my days.
@@62PNAC I don’t think about it that way. I rotate my torso and hips together so there is no twist in my lower back. Arms have to stay connected, and I focus on my right arm bending as I go back, and straitening as I swing through. Most importantly you have to stay relaxed…no tension. The best thing about this swing method is I don’t do a lot of practice with a ball. I swing almost every night never hitting a ball…just getting the feeling of staying connected and swinging the club head, feeling its weight. It’s been suite a few years now of us in this swing, and it’s gotten very powerful for me. I’m hitting a 7 iron with a 154 carry, with low effort. It’s just smooth and relaxed. My index is an 8.7. Watch Julian’s earlier videos on this swing. Swing in a mirror so you can see how you’re progressing. Just do the drills he suggests and it will come together. It’s never easy to make changes, but this was worth it for me.
Hi Julian, I am a 37 year old below knee amputee (left side) now for about 3 years and I've decided to play golf as a sport since I can play it into older age... I Became an amputee due to a motorcycle accident so my back was also a bit injured. Anyway, I took out my driver yesterday just to swing a few and loosened up, I must have hit less than 10 shots. Got up this morning with extremely locked up lower back... Stumbled across your video this morning and geez your golf swing looks so fluid and natural... I recorded my swing yesterday and I can see how tight it looks. I've got all the problems you've described. That's definitely the cause of my pain today. I really can't want to give your method a try. Once my pain subsides I will try it out and give you feedback.
Hi Chris, Many thanks for sharing your story with me, sounds like you’ve had your challenges but pleased that you’ve seemingly come through them. I hope this video helps you with your golf and if so I’d love to hear back from you. Enjoy the transformation 😀
I'm 41 and 28 of those years I have been an above knee amputee, right handed trail leg prosthetic. I'm having problems with my lower body rotation with my leg on and pretty much injuring my lower back every round. I've been beating it up for a long time before this so it's not all from golf. Thinking I may have better results golfing without it on! Check my progress n follow and give pointers! Trying to put all my golf experiences on yt.
As I lay here in bed as a new golfer (age 58) with serious backpain caused by an improper swing -- reinforced by players and teachers that say "don't move your head" and "keep your lead foot planted" -- I can't wait to heal so that I can try this out. I literally just recieved and installed a NetReturn in my backyard and have used it once before hurting myself. Wish I found your video sooner. Thanks for this info!!!
Oh wow, so sorry to hear about your back issue. Hope you feel better soon. The new ProperGolfing handbook is now available on Amazon if you need something to inspire you to a speedy recovery. Wishing you a happy pain free golfing season next year 👍
Hello Julian, thank you for your video! I am an Osteopath who just this morning had a patient who had injured his back through poor golf swing technique, and whilst I explained how to swing better, it was great to be able to share this video of yours with him :) So much nicer for the back; I hate seeing all those fixed hips and ankles!! Such a strain on the knee and lower back!
Hi, thank you so much for your kind message and I’m pleased that you agree with this methodology. I just wish more coaches understood this and helped their students avoid bad backs and other joints.
Thank you Julian, I now see where I have been moving wrong and destroying my back....been off the course for 3 months now out of fear.....I feel what you showed me could get me back.....off the the range and I am taking you with me...
Great tip Julian , my game has improved greatly shortened my swing my handicap down from 22 to 14. I’m a senior (74) and recently being getting lower back pains exactly as you explained so well. I think and please correct me if I’m wrong but over the last few years modern teaching has been keeping the feet more planted and since then I’ve had the odd back pain. Another thing I like to do is flare my lead foot out slightly and drop the trail foot back this helps me to turn and hit a straight shot which I now do consistently. But I will now revert to the raising the left heel after watching your video should get more distance too! Many thanks Julian!
Just what I needed to watch and hear, Julian. You’re restored my hope that I’ll return to playing golf after I recover from a T12 compression fracture (not caused by golfing). I’ve subscribed to your UA-cam channel and will go on to your website. Again, many thanks for your demonstration of good body mechanics and how they are the pivotal component to a stressless golf swing.
That’s great to hear, Janet The way golf is being taught now can cause a lot of back issues if it’s not executed correctly. Good luck with your recovery and journey to swinging pain free 🏌️♀️👍
Thank you so much for this! I’m in the middle of getting lessons as a complete beginner and was told I need to keep my left foot down for the back swing. My back is stiff and it’s been sore doing it that way. I’ll definitely be doing it your way from now on regardless of what others say. Thank you!
Going to try this on the range. Lower disc is compressed and pinched a nerve a month ago. Afraid to swing but I’m going to give it hell tomorrow. Thanks for some insight and instruction. It’s worth a shot.
Thank you for your video and explanation Julian, it makes a lot of sense! I am quite a beginner, and in the last few months every time I play only 9 holes, I end up with left hip and left lumbar side pain, which lasts for 5-7 days. I am not sure what part of my swing is causing the pain but will try your advice next time I play. Thank you again
If you follow the video correctly you should find it really helps your back. The modern golf swing often aggravates the knees, back and neck. Hope it helps. I have a lot of content on the members website called www.Propergolfing.com that help with a more natural swing 👍
This looks great. I have spinal stenosis in my low back. Everytime I played golf I would be down in pain for several days. Hopefully this will help. I dont want to give up golf. It's my only hobby. Bless you!
👍👍👍 The swing we strive to achieve. I would liked to have seen that swing from the front and back as well. I am sure it is easy enough to find in a number of your previous videos. Great tips as always.
This is how golf should be taught to beginners, as well as a healthy change for any casual golfer. I wish I would have been taught this way 40 years ago and would have never applied the x-factor mechanics taught in the 80's and early 90's or so. Destroyed my back. I began to fear my days of golf were probably numbered when 3 advil and a couple shots of whiskey are no longer effective. However, I must say with core training and re-vamping my swing using this method taught by Julian and others, I am seeing some positive changes in the swing AND the pain.
I feel you. Just realized how completely different my performance is when I take 1500 mg of Tylenol compared to none. You would swear I just started playing compared to when I absolutely feel no pain.
Hi Julian - Thankful to have found your video. I do quite fine with my iron swing but my driver swing is causing me pain and frustration. Do you have a video like this for driver? What modifications would you make for the driver swing?
Julian, Love your videos! I have DIsh ( fusing) in lower R. side thoracic spine. Is this swing suitable for me? ? any other suggestions please. Raymond Halpin( NSW)
Hi Raymond, yes, this will certainly help you play golf with less pain, allow you lead foot to move freely in the backswing and follow the flight of the ball with your eyes so that your head turns and this allows your body to turn naturally and help avoid unnatural positions in the swing.
As a new golfer, I’ve been told not to raise my left heel and have since bulged a disc in my lower back. Will be going back to lifting the heel once more!
I like the sound of this! I am a little confused though about how you are dealing with the side bend since there is no down the line view for this video. I had a spinal fusion surgery 40 years ago and only my bottom two lumbar vertebrae and top 3 vertebrae are not fused together, so I have almost NO side bend....it is physically impossible to get more than just a few degrees. This has always been my nemesis playing. Every time I have taken a lesson, I have been told that if I can't get any side bend, I will never get better. I may have misunderstood what you said, but can you please explain if you are getting less side bend with this method since you do not hold your head still? (although from the front view in slow motion it really looks like you hold it still through impact). Thanks!
Thanks for your comment, I wouldn’t be trying to get side bend in your position, simply allow you ankles to move freely and keep relaxed and listen to your body, work with it not against it, where abouts are you located?
Julian, what compensation to the easiest swing needs to be made to accommodate for wider shoulder men and those with a barrel torso? As the arms come into impact zone, the arms bump up against the body if one has a very upright stance. Please assist.
Julian you may definitely be on to something here with the back-saver swing. I am almost 60 and have been battling lower back golf injuries for the past 20 years. I am certain it has everything to do with too much side bend in my swing. I have been working on this new swing at the range Julian and it seems to work well. Only issues so far is I tend to hit quite a few pulls & fades with this swing? Your thoughts Julian and thank you for posting this video!
This is great advice… I get pain in my legs and back, granted I hit the ball a long way as my club head speed is around 118mph on average. My left knee and lower hurts after around due to this so my question is will this change affect my distance?
Great drill, thanks Julian, found this after frustration with a bad back and definitely doing the things you stated which are hurting my back, practicing this drill and feels much better, subscribed to this excellent channel 👍🏻🏌️♂️
Thank you for this video. I've been trying to get my swing corrected to save my back. I'm a scratch golfer in early 50's, 6'7" who grew up with a low hand set, narrow stance, flat swing, elbows in and hit cut shots all my life. I'm dealing with chronic back issues these last few years that has really limited my golf. I'm working on your swing by standing taller, more upright, wider stance. I've bent clubs upright to help with height. My clubs are only 1" over but feel that I still bend down with back angled to hit shorter clubs. I try to keep upright as possible but it is an issue. I've also always kept ball up in my stance to help with cut shot. I feel like I must play the ball in middle of stance with your technique. Will your method work with narrow stance and ball forward? Do you think I should lengthen clubs more to help with getting more upright? Thank you.
I’ve had the right side bend because I’m trying to hit up on the driver. It’s compressed my discs on the right side. I’m going to work on my stance and set up and try swinging like this
@@JulianMellor I started doing it after seeing examples of tour pros with their heads lower at impact than at address. However, they are athletes and very flexible. I will definitely try your method!
What about mid back pain, just below the scalula? When I go into the down swing I feel it on the left side of my middle back and then I pulled that muscle. Not sure what I am doing wrong to cause pain in the rhomboid/Lat area?
I’d be very interested to see your swing so that I could see what might be causing the issue. How about you email a short video and I’ll feedback to you? Julian@propergolfing.com
Thanks for this video Julian. Is there a shot shape that's more conducive to someone with a bad back? I feel if I'm trying to swing more in-to-out to hit a draw it worsens my lower right back pain. Is a more upright "fade swing" better for someone with a bad back? Or does that method you describe in this video suit any shot shape?
Hi Darren, the true swing path will be - in to square to In - this normally produces a draw shot if you release the club head correctly. The in to out swing patch may well hurt your back. Remember to allow your ankles to move freely and you should be fine
I’d like to share my recent success in engaging Julian Mellor as my swing coach. I’m a 72 year old senior left handed golfer from Virginia. I have played for over 50 years. Golf is a major focus of my retirement years. It gives me great pleasure to report my handicap index yesterday fell below 10 for the first time in my life. I have Julian to thank for that. My story- About 3 years ago I was struggling with inconsistent ball striking. I found Julian and his colleagues on UA-cam, started working with the Easy Swing philosophy and incorporating la dance du golf in my pre- shot routine. It worked quite well over time. However, about 4 months ago my swing began to deteriorate and my scores ballooned up. I was really frustrated. Something was off. Poor drives, chunky weak irons.. skulled chip shots to name a few. So I decided to engage Julian in a 60 day improvement program … remotely. In the beginning, my wife video recorded my swing with different clubs from various angles and I emailed them off to Julian. (Btw, if you’ve never seen a video of your golf swing, be prepared… uuugh!). I didn’t know what to expect in return .. maybe a focus on la dance du golf? Sending along already available videos from UA-cam?…canned responses that he gives everyone? I had no idea. What I received was problem identification and improvement guidance on the idiosyncrasies of MY swing. It was personal, direct and easy to understand. I tried his suggestions, exchanged more videos.. kept him up to date on results. We went through it all- from driving, irons, punch and runs, putting.. the whole gamut. I would have never ever identified these issues on my own let alone fixed them. I’d been trying for 50 years! I couldn’t be happier. Particularly when I really pure a 6 iron or pound out a long straight drive with a controlled and relaxed swing. There is no better feeling. Thank you Julian for what you’ve done for me. You’ve made my game what it is today, and set the groundwork for long term continued improvement. Your most grateful student from Virginia, Lloyd Anderson Ps- if anyone has a question of me and my experience, I’d be happy to answer.
Good question, firstly “ Do NOT “ force the movement. Secondly allow your lead ankle to move freely during the backswing as this will take pressure off your spine. And through impact follow the ball with your eyes as this allows the head to turn and thus allows your body to turn naturally without putting any extra tension through your back. Start off slowly and build up to a speed that is comfortable for you.
@@JulianMellor the golf club is designed with shaft lean ,if not the club would be delofted. All pros and good golfers have right side bend through impact, what do you recommend?
@@JulianMellor it’s not comparing with anyone, it’s about finding the best way to swing a club pain free. Are you saying the pros are sacrificing their body to play at that level?
Absolutely and there is no consequence to some of the coaches who are advocating this, I have evidence of a guy who was being taught this by a world renowned coach and he ended up in hospital with ruptured discs
Hi Julian. I'm right handed but play golf left handed. My left hip was getting painful turning back. I now set up with my feet and shoulders at 45* closed. I now don't turn on my left hip. But l then turn through on my right hip as normal.
I am so tempted by his swing, which looks so effortless. But I find it hard to believe that he gets any distance at all with a swing like that. What club is that and how far did it carry?
170 with 7 iron 275 with driver. I have to say I’m constantly amazed with golfers obsession with distance ( btw I’m over 50 and not a young whipper snapper lol )
@@JulianMellor As a guy who had an L 4/5 fusion on my back I would love to drive 225 to 250 without pain. Watching your video, I suspect I am doing something weird or perhaps many weird things. I want to learn your swing, are there drills or something to help get started?
This will be an interesting Zoom chat, Doug, who’s a professional in the US is struggling with his golf swing as his normal swing is killing his back😱 I’ve got a cure for that 👍😀
@@JulianMellor I think twisting too much. I build my confidence back up and start swinging faster and end up pulling something Kind of how you explained. Will try your lifting the heel technique.
I’ve been watching and learning from Julian for a couple of years now. I found his videos based on trying to find a swing method that didn’t cause me any back pain. I injured my back in my early 20’s, from a bad fall off a roof while working. The pain I endured swinging like Julian describes early in this video (the way I was taught when I was young, think X factor type swing, with lead foot planted and heavy torsion on my lower back) for 25 years was getting to the point that I wasn’t enjoying the game any longer, and my scores were just getting worse each year. I put in the time to really get comfortable with Julian’s swing method, and I play pain free golf now. My scores are continuing to improve, and I’m down to an 11 index, and feel like I can get to a single digit index this year. My ball striking is more consistent then ever. I played 27 holes yesterday! My back feels fantastic and I shot 83, then 39. I’m in love with the game again, and looking forward to playing pain free for the rest of my days.
That’s awesome Chris, fabulous to read 👍😀
Well done man!
Do you rotate the shoulders and hip together?
@@62PNAC I don’t think about it that way. I rotate my torso and hips together so there is no twist in my lower back. Arms have to stay connected, and I focus on my right arm bending as I go back, and straitening as I swing through. Most importantly you have to stay relaxed…no tension. The best thing about this swing method is I don’t do a lot of practice with a ball. I swing almost every night never hitting a ball…just getting the feeling of staying connected and swinging the club head, feeling its weight. It’s been suite a few years now of us in this swing, and it’s gotten very powerful for me. I’m hitting a 7 iron with a 154 carry, with low effort. It’s just smooth and relaxed. My index is an 8.7. Watch Julian’s earlier videos on this swing. Swing in a mirror so you can see how you’re progressing. Just do the drills he suggests and it will come together. It’s never easy to make changes, but this was worth it for me.
Hi Julian,
I am a 37 year old below knee amputee (left side) now for about 3 years and I've decided to play golf as a sport since I can play it into older age...
I Became an amputee due to a motorcycle accident so my back was also a bit injured.
Anyway, I took out my driver yesterday just to swing a few and loosened up, I must have hit less than 10 shots. Got up this morning with extremely locked up lower back...
Stumbled across your video this morning and geez your golf swing looks so fluid and natural...
I recorded my swing yesterday and I can see how tight it looks. I've got all the problems you've described. That's definitely the cause of my pain today.
I really can't want to give your method a try. Once my pain subsides I will try it out and give you feedback.
Hi Chris,
Many thanks for sharing your story with me, sounds like you’ve had your challenges but pleased that you’ve seemingly come through them.
I hope this video helps you with your golf and if so I’d love to hear back from you.
Enjoy the transformation 😀
Yep just let that left foot come off the ground a bit more and you should be good
I'm 41 and 28 of those years I have been an above knee amputee, right handed trail leg prosthetic. I'm having problems with my lower body rotation with my leg on and pretty much injuring my lower back every round. I've been beating it up for a long time before this so it's not all from golf. Thinking I may have better results golfing without it on! Check my progress n follow and give pointers! Trying to put all my golf experiences on yt.
The best video made regarding this vital issue of backpain that has been made. Thanks Julian.
Absolute pleasure Bob, I wish all golfers knew about this.
As I lay here in bed as a new golfer (age 58) with serious backpain caused by an improper swing -- reinforced by players and teachers that say "don't move your head" and "keep your lead foot planted" -- I can't wait to heal so that I can try this out. I literally just recieved and installed a NetReturn in my backyard and have used it once before hurting myself. Wish I found your video sooner. Thanks for this info!!!
Oh wow, so sorry to hear about your back issue. Hope you feel better soon. The new ProperGolfing handbook is now available on Amazon if you need something to inspire you to a speedy recovery. Wishing you a happy pain free golfing season next year 👍
Brilliant....this was how I found your teachings a few years back...I've kept with this method which is saving my back (and lowering my scores/hc)!
Clear and simple. That’s the way… Thks…
Glad it helps
Hello Julian, thank you for your video! I am an Osteopath who just this morning had a patient who had injured his back through poor golf swing technique, and whilst I explained how to swing better, it was great to be able to share this video of yours with him :) So much nicer for the back; I hate seeing all those fixed hips and ankles!! Such a strain on the knee and lower back!
Hi, thank you so much for your kind message and I’m pleased that you agree with this methodology. I just wish more coaches understood this and helped their students avoid bad backs and other joints.
Such a beautiful rhythmical swing
Thank you 🙏
Thank you Julian, I now see where I have been moving wrong and destroying my back....been off the course for 3 months now out of fear.....I feel what you showed me could get me back.....off the the range and I am taking you with me...
Give it some time and practice, Patrick and allow your swing to change before your eyes 👍
Great tip Julian , my game has improved greatly shortened my swing my handicap down from 22 to 14. I’m a senior (74) and recently being getting lower back pains exactly as you explained so well. I think and please correct me if I’m wrong but over the last few years modern teaching has been keeping the feet more planted and since then I’ve had the odd back pain. Another thing I like to do is flare my lead foot out slightly and drop the trail foot back this helps me to turn and hit a straight shot which I now do consistently. But I will now revert to the raising the left heel after watching your video should get more distance too! Many thanks Julian!
Very true what you’ve described. So pleased that you’re playing so well and I’m sure you’ll benefit from your left heel being free
@@JulianMellor many thanks Julian and for all your great videos!
so pleased to see you posting video tips again Julian. Thanks for your brilliant advice and inspiration
It’s nice to be able to get out and make videos again, lockdown was no fun that’s for sure, hope it never happens again
As a 69 year old golfer heading for an MRI this week, I am going to try this to help my lower back. Thank you.
Trust it Mike, it really works
Just what I needed to watch and hear, Julian. You’re restored my hope that I’ll return to playing golf after I recover from a T12 compression fracture (not caused by golfing). I’ve subscribed to your UA-cam channel and will go on to your website. Again, many thanks for your demonstration of good body mechanics and how they are the pivotal component to a stressless golf swing.
That’s great to hear, Janet
The way golf is being taught now can cause a lot of back issues if it’s not executed correctly. Good luck with your recovery and journey to swinging pain free 🏌️♀️👍
Will try when back gets better. Thank you for the advise.
Let me know how you get on Dennis
Excellent advice!!
Hope it helps you paul
Thank you so much for this! I’m in the middle of getting lessons as a complete beginner and was told I need to keep my left foot down for the back swing. My back is stiff and it’s been sore doing it that way. I’ll definitely be doing it your way from now on regardless of what others say. Thank you!
I just wish more Pros knew about the Kinetic chain then they wouldn’t teach people to keep their foot still, pleased it’s helped
Going to try this on the range. Lower disc is compressed and pinched a nerve a month ago. Afraid to swing but I’m going to give it hell tomorrow. Thanks for some insight and instruction. It’s worth a shot.
Take it easy James, remember to follow the ball with your eyes so that your body turns and doesn’t tilt keeping pressure off your spine
I struggle with a lot of backpain. Can't wait to try this. Thanks for making this video!
Hope you feel better soon 👍
Great video, such a smooth swing!👏👏
You next Tony 😀
Brilliant thank you so much
Go put it into practice I say 👍😀😀
Thank you for your video and explanation Julian, it makes a lot of sense!
I am quite a beginner, and in the last few months every time I play only 9 holes, I end up with left hip and left lumbar side pain, which lasts for 5-7 days. I am not sure what part of my swing is causing the pain but will try your advice next time I play. Thank you again
If you follow the video correctly you should find it really helps your back. The modern golf swing often aggravates the knees, back and neck. Hope it helps. I have a lot of content on the members website called www.Propergolfing.com that help with a more natural swing 👍
This looks great. I have spinal stenosis in my low back. Everytime I played golf I would be down in pain for several days. Hopefully this will help. I dont want to give up golf. It's my only hobby. Bless you!
Stick with it Ty it should help if you move correctly
👍👍👍 The swing we strive to achieve. I would liked to have seen that swing from the front and back as well. I am sure it is easy enough to find in a number of your previous videos. Great tips as always.
Thanks Richard, This week I will be making another 20 videos for my new website, lots of interesting things to cover
Thank You! 🙏
Hope it helps,David
I’m 74 years old I’ve had 2 surgeries on my back my back is gone out recently, so I’m gonna try this method
There are other things you should be doing as well. I’ve helped 1000”s of golfers with back backs, please let me know how you get on 👍
This is how golf should be taught to beginners, as well as a healthy change for any casual golfer. I wish I would have been taught this way 40 years ago and would have never applied the x-factor mechanics taught in the 80's and early 90's or so. Destroyed my back. I began to fear my days of golf were probably numbered when 3 advil and a couple shots of whiskey are no longer effective. However, I must say with core training and re-vamping my swing using this method taught by Julian and others, I am seeing some positive changes in the swing AND the pain.
That’s fantastic, so pleased that you are still playing and improving 👍
I feel you. Just realized how completely different my performance is when I take 1500 mg of Tylenol compared to none. You would swear I just started playing compared to when I absolutely feel no pain.
Great video,, thanks for the help....I had my whole lower back fused last January, this will hep
It will indeed, start off with a slower swing and gradually build up the speed
I am thinking of getting the Cobra T Rail hybrid irons ? Any thoughts or do you think it would help ?
They are really forgiving that’s for sure
I don’t know if I could make myself use them lol
Very good Julian is the swing a little harder when you get to the ball to follow long
Not sure what you mean, James
Hi Julian - Thankful to have found your video. I do quite fine with my iron swing but my driver swing is causing me pain and frustration. Do you have a video like this for driver? What modifications would you make for the driver swing?
Glad they are helping. Just move the ball position up towards your front heel that’s all
Hi Julian, with regard to the swing mechanics, where does the clubface point? 👍
At the target Martyn
Julian, Love your videos! I have DIsh ( fusing) in lower R. side thoracic spine. Is this swing suitable for me? ? any other suggestions please. Raymond Halpin( NSW)
Hi Raymond, yes, this will certainly help you play golf with less pain, allow you lead foot to move freely in the backswing and follow the flight of the ball with your eyes so that your head turns and this allows your body to turn naturally and help avoid unnatural positions in the swing.
As a new golfer, I’ve been told not to raise my left heel and have since bulged a disc in my lower back. Will be going back to lifting the heel once more!
I hear this so often, I just wish some coaches knew how bad it is to keep the foot pinned to the floor. Hope you are ok now 👍
Thanks Julian I have found out what is causing back pain I was just about to quit golf.
Thank goodness you watched this Patrick, hope it helps and your able to enjoy your golf once more
Me too
I get stiff lower back after about 13 holes...same cause? Great videos!
Yes, more than likely
I like the sound of this! I am a little confused though about how you are dealing with the side bend since there is no down the line view for this video. I had a spinal fusion surgery 40 years ago and only my bottom two lumbar vertebrae and top 3 vertebrae are not fused together, so I have almost NO side bend....it is physically impossible to get more than just a few degrees. This has always been my nemesis playing. Every time I have taken a lesson, I have been told that if I can't get any side bend, I will never get better. I may have misunderstood what you said, but can you please explain if you are getting less side bend with this method since you do not hold your head still? (although from the front view in slow motion it really looks like you hold it still through impact). Thanks!
Thanks for your comment, I wouldn’t be trying to get side bend in your position, simply allow you ankles to move freely and keep relaxed and listen to your body, work with it not against it, where abouts are you located?
Julian, what compensation to the easiest swing needs to be made to accommodate for wider shoulder men and those with a barrel torso? As the arms come into impact zone, the arms bump up against the body if one has a very upright stance. Please assist.
There are changes to be made that’s for sure. I’d be happy to work with you if you wanted to really understand what you should be concentrating on.
Julian you may definitely be on to something here with the back-saver swing. I am almost 60 and have been battling lower back golf injuries for the past 20 years. I am certain it has everything to do with too much side bend in my swing. I have been working on this new swing at the range Julian and it seems to work well. Only issues so far is I tend to hit quite a few pulls & fades with this swing? Your thoughts Julian and thank you for posting this video!
That’s cool, Kelly, the reason you’ll be hitting the ball to the left is because you’ll be keeping your head down too longer through impact. 👍
@@JulianMellor Thanks Julian!
I'm thinking the driver would put the most pressure on your back so I'm going to take that out of the bag but your advice is spot on
Sound thinking I’d say, when you feel comfortable then maybe reintroduce it, James
Hi Julian, is this swing better suited to stiffer metal shafts or graphite shafts?
Graphite shafts Chris
This is great advice… I get pain in my legs and back, granted I hit the ball a long way as my club head speed is around 118mph on average. My left knee and lower hurts after around due to this so my question is will this change affect my distance?
That’s a lot of speed, the only true way to find out is give it a go, what’s worse stopping playing or playing pain free
I slipped a disc in my back a few years back and I really struggle to play golf. It’s so frustrating because I love playing golf
Hope this helps you to get back swinging again 🙏
@Julian Mellor - does this hold true when hitting the driver?
Yes it does Robert
Julian, Question: how far do you hit your 7 iron with your easy natural swing? Thank you, Robert
Depending on conditions I hit my 7 iron 175 yards
@@JulianMellor hard to believe. That’s great! Love your videos. Thank you.
Great drill, thanks Julian, found this after frustration with a bad back and definitely doing the things you stated which are hurting my back, practicing this drill and feels much better, subscribed to this excellent channel 👍🏻🏌️♂️
Thanks Cris, often, the modern swing is really hurting and restricting golfers and it’s important to think differently and free up the swing 👍
Thank you for this video. I've been trying to get my swing corrected to save my back. I'm a scratch golfer in early 50's, 6'7" who grew up with a low hand set, narrow stance, flat swing, elbows in and hit cut shots all my life. I'm dealing with chronic back issues these last few years that has really limited my golf. I'm working on your swing by standing taller, more upright, wider stance. I've bent clubs upright to help with height. My clubs are only 1" over but feel that I still bend down with back angled to hit shorter clubs. I try to keep upright as possible but it is an issue. I've also always kept ball up in my stance to help with cut shot. I feel like I must play the ball in middle of stance with your technique. Will your method work with narrow stance and ball forward? Do you think I should lengthen clubs more to help with getting more upright? Thank you.
Hi Brad, nice to hear from you. The method will work with a narrow stance and ball forward. Always worth getting the length of your clubs checked
I’ve had the right side bend because I’m trying to hit up on the driver. It’s compressed my discs on the right side. I’m going to work on my stance and set up and try swinging like this
Please let me know how you get on 👍
Will this method help neck pain as well? I've been trying to keep my head down to keep in posture but now I have neck pain.
Absolutely it will, watch this space with regards to avoiding injuries 👍, keeping the head down is the worst piece of advice ever btw
@@JulianMellor I started doing it after seeing examples of tour pros with their heads lower at impact than at address. However, they are athletes and very flexible. I will definitely try your method!
What about mid back pain, just below the scalula? When I go into the down swing I feel it on the left side of my middle back and then I pulled that muscle. Not sure what I am doing wrong to cause pain in the rhomboid/Lat area?
I’d be very interested to see your swing so that I could see what might be causing the issue. How about you email a short video and I’ll feedback to you? Julian@propergolfing.com
Thanks for this video Julian.
Is there a shot shape that's more conducive to someone with a bad back? I feel if I'm trying to swing more in-to-out to hit a draw it worsens my lower right back pain. Is a more upright "fade swing" better for someone with a bad back? Or does that method you describe in this video suit any shot shape?
Hi Darren, the true swing path will be - in to square to In - this normally produces a draw shot if you release the club head correctly. The in to out swing patch may well hurt your back. Remember to allow your ankles to move freely and you should be fine
I’d like to share my recent success in engaging Julian Mellor as my swing coach.
I’m a 72 year old senior left handed golfer from Virginia. I have played for over 50 years. Golf is a major focus of my retirement years.
It gives me great pleasure to report my handicap index yesterday fell below 10 for the first time in my life. I have Julian to thank for that.
My story- About 3 years ago I was struggling with inconsistent ball striking. I found Julian and his colleagues on UA-cam, started working with the Easy Swing philosophy and incorporating la dance du golf in my pre- shot routine. It worked quite well over time.
However, about 4 months ago my swing began to deteriorate and my scores ballooned up. I was really frustrated. Something was off. Poor drives, chunky weak irons.. skulled chip shots to name a few.
So I decided to engage Julian in a 60 day improvement program … remotely.
In the beginning, my wife video recorded my swing with different clubs from various angles and I emailed them off to Julian. (Btw, if you’ve never seen a video of your golf swing, be prepared… uuugh!).
I didn’t know what to expect in return .. maybe a focus on la dance du golf? Sending along already available videos from UA-cam?…canned responses that he gives everyone? I had no idea.
What I received was problem identification and improvement guidance on the idiosyncrasies of MY swing. It was personal, direct and easy to understand. I tried his suggestions, exchanged more videos.. kept him up to date on results. We went through it all- from driving, irons, punch and runs, putting.. the whole gamut.
I would have never ever identified these issues on my own let alone fixed them. I’d been trying for 50 years!
I couldn’t be happier. Particularly when I really pure a 6 iron or pound out a long straight drive with a controlled and relaxed swing. There is no better feeling.
Thank you Julian for what you’ve done for me. You’ve made my game what it is today, and set the groundwork for long term continued improvement.
Your most grateful student from Virginia,
Lloyd Anderson
Ps- if anyone has a question of me and my experience, I’d be happy to answer.
What are the main drills to do if you have back pain
Good question, firstly “ Do NOT “ force the movement. Secondly allow your lead ankle to move freely during the backswing as this will take pressure off your spine. And through impact follow the ball with your eyes as this allows the head to turn and thus allows your body to turn naturally without putting any extra tension through your back. Start off slowly and build up to a speed that is comfortable for you.
What about all the talk about right side bend through impact?
Only applicable if you work on shaft lean through impact and you want a bad back
@@JulianMellor the golf club is designed with shaft lean ,if not the club would be delofted. All pros and good golfers have right side bend through impact, what do you recommend?
Depends on your age and athletic ability, comparing yourself to an elite golfer is a fool’s errand in my opinion
@@JulianMellor it’s not comparing with anyone, it’s about finding the best way to swing a club pain free. Are you saying the pros are sacrificing their body to play at that level?
Absolutely and there is no consequence to some of the coaches who are advocating this, I have evidence of a guy who was being taught this by a world renowned coach and he ended up in hospital with ruptured discs
Hi Julian. I'm right handed but play golf left handed. My left hip was getting painful turning back. I now set up with my feet and shoulders at 45* closed. I now don't turn on my left hip. But l then turn through on my right hip as normal.
That will work John
I am so tempted by his swing, which looks so effortless. But I find it hard to believe that he gets any distance at all with a swing like that. What club is that and how far did it carry?
170 with 7 iron 275 with driver. I have to say I’m constantly amazed with golfers obsession with distance ( btw I’m over 50 and not a young whipper snapper lol )
@@JulianMellor As a guy who had an L 4/5 fusion on my back I would love to drive 225 to 250 without pain. Watching your video, I suspect I am doing something weird or perhaps many weird things. I want to learn your swing, are there drills or something to help get started?
Have you a video that shows your swing in slow motion.
There is a video on UA-cam somewhere that shows my swing in SLO mo
This will be an interesting Zoom chat, Doug, who’s a professional in the US is struggling with his golf swing as his normal swing is killing his back😱 I’ve got a cure for that 👍😀
I'm back! Double entendre there people
My upper torso twisting while leaving my feet planted is hurting my back also.
Alllow your ankle to move freely and it will really help your back
Right handed golfer. Every few months. I pull a muscle in my left lower back.. Agony for a bout 2 weeks.... 😢
That’s interesting, any thoughts on the cause?
@@JulianMellor I think twisting too much. I build my confidence back up and start swinging faster and end up pulling something Kind of how you explained. Will try your lifting the heel technique.
Lovely swing......forget trying to look like a tour pro people!
Wise words, they are elite and train like athletes
I don’t see any pros doing this Julian. Why is that?
You’ll see senior pros doing it 👍
It looks like you are swiveling left ankle, and turning your shoulders and hips at the same time - all in one rotational movement.
Good observations, all because I allow my ankles to move freely