What Is the Chicken Wing in Golf?

What Is the Chicken Wing in Golf?

The chicken wing refers to a swing flaw where a golfer’s lead arm (the left arm for right-handed players and the right arm for left-handed players) bends excessively during the downswing and follow-through. This bending causes the elbows to separate, resembling a flapping chicken wing—hence the name.

From a technical standpoint, this issue leads to a breakdown in arm connection and swing mechanics, making it difficult to maintain control and generate power. The result? Weak, inconsistent shots, often accompanied by a slice or pull.


Why Is the Chicken Wing a Problem?

The chicken wing negatively affects several aspects of your swing, including:

  1. Loss of Power: A bent lead arm disrupts the transfer of energy through the swing, resulting in shorter shots.

  2. Inconsistent Contact: The separation of the elbows often causes the clubface to open or close at impact, leading to mishits.

  3. Reduced Accuracy: The improper mechanics caused by the chicken wing can throw off your swing path, leading to unpredictable ball flight.

  4. Increased Risk of Injury: Repeatedly bending the lead arm and compensating for poor mechanics can strain your joints and muscles over time.


What Causes the Chicken Wing in Golf?

The chicken wing doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s typically the result of other underlying swing issues. Here are some common causes:

  1. Poor Setup or Posture: Standing too close to the ball or being too “crowded” at address can force your arms to pull inward during the swing.

  2. Steep Downswing Path: A downswing that is too steep (often referred to as an “over-the-top” motion) puts your arms in a position where the lead arm bends to compensate.

  3. Lack of Rotation: If your body doesn’t rotate properly through the swing, your arms may separate to make up for the lack of movement.

  4. Fear of Ground Contact: Hesitation to make a divot can cause golfers to pull their arms in, leading to the chicken wing.

  5. Insufficient Arm Connection: A lack of connection between your arms and body is a primary driver of this issue.


Signs You Have a Chicken Wing

Not sure if you’re guilty of the chicken wing? Here are some telltale signs:

  • Your lead elbow points upward during the follow-through.

  • You consistently slice the ball or struggle with pulls.

  • You notice a lack of distance and power in your shots.

  • Your arms feel disconnected from your body throughout the swing.


How to Fix the Chicken Wing

Understanding the chicken wing is only half the battle. The good news is that this issue is fixable with the right approach and tools. One of the most effective solutions for correcting the chicken wing is the Golf Swing Shirt.

How the Golf Swing Shirt Can Help

The Golf Swing Shirt is a revolutionary training aid designed to keep your arms connected to your body throughout the swing. By gently constraining your arms within its single sleeve, the shirt encourages proper arm positioning and prevents the elbows from separating during the downswing and follow-through. It helps you:

  • Build muscle memory for proper arm connection.

  • Shallow your downswing path for better consistency.

  • Promote full rotation and extension for increased power.

  • Eliminate the chicken wing for good.

Additional Tips to Fix the Chicken Wing

  1. Improve Your Posture: Ensure your arms hang naturally under your shoulders at address, creating enough space for your swing.

  2. Focus on Rotation: Practice drills that encourage your body to turn fully through the swing.

  3. Commit to Making a Divot: Overcome any hesitation about hitting the ground by practicing with a divot board or similar tool.


Fix Your Chicken Wing For Good

The chicken wing is a common but correctable swing flaw that can significantly impact your performance on the course. By understanding its causes and using tools like the Golf Swing Shirt, you can eliminate the chicken wing and unlock your full potential as a golfer. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an aspiring pro, addressing this issue will lead to more consistent, powerful, and accurate shots.

Stop letting the chicken wing hold you back. Take control of your swing today and experience the difference the right training aid can make!

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