I like to explain the mechanics of the golf swing using a simple analogy inspired by one of my coaching influences, the legend Craig Shankland. About 30 years ago, when I was a young instructor, I attended a seminar taught by Craig, and he explained a concept that still sticks with me to this day.
Craig, who worked with the legendary Moe Normanhe liked to explain wrist and body conditions using the terms “nun” and “many” like you’d see on a Chinese food menu.
The “nun” is the basic swing motion, driven by your big muscles. This is the basic motion of the golf swing, with minimal wrist involvement. It’s a simple body-directed action that makes the ball move without unnecessary complexity. It’s the basic starting point that helps create clean contact and sets the stage for everything that follows.
“Sum” is the wrist hinge, which adds some leverage to the swing. Think of it as your own secret source of energywhich gives your swing some “oomph”.
Now that we’ve defined the two terms, we can mix and match them together for a variety of poses.
For the simplest shots – like a crash and run – you have to think “nun, nun, nun”, about backflip, landing and follow through. From there we move on to “sum, nun, nun”, which I think of as the first course. Here we start to add something.
“Shuma” introduces a subtle hand set, adding some leverage while maintaining structure in the arms. Then we’re back to the familiar “nun, nun” feel of the ebb and flow. This progression allows you to build strength and endurance without overcomplicating the movement.
Finally, there is “nun, sum, nun.” This variation reverses the sequence: you start and end with minimal wrist and arm action, but introduce the “bulk”—or wrist hinge—on the downstroke. In my experience, this is a bit of a hidden gem. It can help create effortless speed, improve compression and produce that “through impact” feel that so many players are looking for.
What I’ve always appreciated about this way of thinking—with all credit to Craig—is how memorable it is. These simple phrases stick, and more importantly, they translate into sentiments that players can actually use on the course.
The bigger idea here is that a great golf swing isn’t about reinventing the wheel. It’s about building things in the right sequence. Start gradually, with a complex layer, and then learn to use that more advanced movement when you are ready.
We are all the summation of our experiences – and sometimes, a little “nun” is just what you need to play better golf.
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