cover image The Hogan Way: How to Apply Ben Hogan's Exceptional Swing and Shotmaking Genius to Your Own Game

The Hogan Way: How to Apply Ben Hogan's Exceptional Swing and Shotmaking Genius to Your Own Game

John Andrisani. Harper Paperbacks, $14.99 (160pp) ISBN 978-0-06-273660-4

In this brief handbook, Andrisani (The Nicklaus Way) draws lessons from Ben Hogan's pure swing, unparalleled concentration, dedication to practice and unique approach to golf--and demonstrates how these lessons can be applied to any golfer's game. Beginning with Hogan's early mistakes (such as his crossover grip), Andrisani points out how damaging poor fundamentals can be. Then he explains how Hogan fixed his mistakes, and how""the setup and swing secrets Hogan talked about, and those that were never shared before now, can help you become a more skillful wood and iron player."" Black and white illustrations clearly show the mechanics of Hogan's grip and swing; photographs of the master in action clarify extremely detailed descriptions of Hogan's physical game (from his address to the""twelve movements"" of his swing). The author also goes beyond the physical to the mental aspect of Hogan's play, because""maybe you can't move the ball with your mind, but you can think your way to lower scores."" Reading about Hogan's extensive practice routines, course management tactics, preparation for a round and patience may be inspiring. At the least, readers may find it reassuring to know that, even for the game's greatest players, golf is a constant struggle.