Science of Golf Swing Release: Mickelson vs. Trebuchet

Published: May 16, 2024

I discovered a surprisingly vivid way to illustrate the forces behind a proper golf swing release — and it involves medieval siege weaponry.

In this video, I flip a slow-motion trebuchet clip upside down and set it side by side with Phil Mickelson's release. A trebuchet is a counterweight catapult, and the physics it uses are remarkably close to what an elite golfer does through impact.

Want to feel this in YOUR swing? Try a free AI-powered golf lesson → — GOATY gives you real-time voice coaching, pose tracking, and instant feedback on every rep.

Related: Golf swing lag — why AI coaching fixes it faster →

(Golf swing mechanics rarely look this dramatic, but trust me — it works.)

science behind golf swing releaseFind out what a medieval weapon can teach you about your golf swing release!

You'll be astounded by how similar the two motions are, and comparing them is one of the clearest ways to truly understand the lag release and why timing matters so much. Whether you're working on your own through a free AI swing analysis or following structured drills, seeing this comparison will reframe everything.

You'll find out:

  • How your trail arm and wrists should decelerate through the impact zone to release the angle correctly, and
  • How to avoid the most common early release mistakes that cost golfers serious clubhead speed

Check out this video now to see why you should "let it go" to release your club properly — and why fighting that release is the single biggest brake on your power.

Checkpoints for Practice

  • Momentum Plays a Large Role in the Release of Lag — don't force it
  • Near Impact, the Hands Must Slow Down to Release the Wrist Angle Naturally
  • If the Arms Move Too Fast Through Impact, It Becomes Impossible to Release Clubhead Lag — review the GOAT Drill video lesson to train the correct sequencing

Related Golf Instruction

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the release in a golf swing?

The release refers to the unhinging of the wrists and rotation of the forearms through the impact zone. A proper release lets the clubhead accelerate past the hands after impact, squaring the face and directing energy into the ball. The timing of the release determines clubhead speed, face angle, and shot shape.

How does a trebuchet model apply to the golf swing release?

A trebuchet generates maximum projectile speed by decelerating its arm rapidly, which whips the sling at enormous speed. In the golf swing the body deceleration through impact similarly allows the arms and club to sling past, producing peak clubhead speed at the ball rather than before it. Trying to muscle through impact actually reduces speed.

What does studying the release of skilled players teach us about golf swing mechanics?

Elite players demonstrate how active forearm rotation through impact controls face angle and produces high launch. Their release shows that forearm rotation must match body rotation timing. You cannot rotate the forearms ahead of a stalled pivot and expect consistent results.

How can I train a more consistent release?

Practice slow-motion swings focusing on keeping the club in front of your chest all the way to a balanced finish. The pump drill, stopping at impact three times before completing the swing, builds awareness of where the club is when the wrists release. Consistent body rotation through impact is the most reliable foundation for a repeatable release.

Learn the 3 Tour Pro Consistency Secrets You've NEVER Heard!

Watch part 2 now to see how you're moving your body in the opposite direction of the pros!

GOATY AI Golf Coach
Get a Free AI Golf Lesson — 10 Minutes of Live Coaching Just prop up your phone, start swinging, and GOATY coaches you live with real-time voice feedback. No upload needed.
Try GOATY Free

We're after one thing: Real Results - Real Fast. And that's exactly what our members achieve. And that's why they say the AXIOM is: Mind-blowing. Game changing. Revolutionary.

Check it out ...

Here at RotarySwing, talk is cheap and the proof is always in the pudding. Come see the massive transformations we can achieve together in your swing.

See for yourself ...

From beginner to pro, we have what you need to get you where you want to go.

See how inside ...

RotarySwing was founded out of frustration with the current state of golf instruction. Quinton knew a better way had to exist to learn this game we all love.

Learn more ...

Join RotarySwing
Member Login