As a co-founder of the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI), Dave Phillips has revolutionized the way we understand the connection between the body and the golf swing. Here is an overview of his career, his method, and a summary of his lesson.
Who is Dave Phillips?
Dave Phillips is a golf and performance coach and a member of the PGA of America since 1993. He founded the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) with Dr. Greg Rose.
Based in Oceanside, California, the TPI studies the connection between the body and the golf swing. Today, it trains thousands of certified experts around the world, including instructors, strength and conditioning coaches, and healthcare professionals.
The Career of Dave Phillips, Co-Founder of TPI
A Leader in Education
- Ranked among GOLF Magazine's Top 100 Instructors since 2000.
- Ranked among the top 50 instructors in the United States by Golf Digest.
- Voted Teacher of the Year by his PGA chapter and recipient of the Horton Smith Award for youth golf development.
On television and in the press
He co-hosted the shows “Golf Fitness Academy” and “Titleist Performance Institute” on the Golf Channel. He has also written for *GOLF Magazine*, *Golf Digest*, *Sports Illustrated*, and *Men’s Health*.
Dave Phillips' Method: Starting with the Body and Measurements
Dave Phillips relies on 3D measurements from the TPI. There isn’t just one “right” position at the top of the swing: whether your wrist is bent or flat, both work. On the other hand, all good players do the same thing on the downswing. They flex their left wrist to bring the clubface back, then the rotation of the torso and hips keeps it on line. For him, it’s all about the coordination between the hands and the body.
Dave Phillips' Lesson on Best Golf Tips
- Club Break (Downswing and Transition, Impact Position): Dave Phillips (TPI) Explains the Club's Relaxation.
In this lesson, he revisits an exercise from Padraig Harrington. Titleist also filmed Joe Plecker on the swing sequence.
FAQ About Dave Phillips
Who is Dave Phillips?
Dave Phillips is an American golf coach and member of the PGA of America who co-founded the Titleist Performance Institute with Dr. Greg Rose.
What is the TPI?
The Titleist Performance Institute, located in Oceanside, California, studies the connection between the body and the swing. It trains and certifies instructors, strength and conditioning coaches, and healthcare professionals.
Is Dave Phillips a well-known teacher?
Yes. He has been listed among GOLF Magazine's Top 100 Instructors since 2000, and Golf Digest has ranked him among the top 50 instructors in the United States.
What lesson by Dave Phillips can be found on Best Golf Tips?
A summary of his Titleist lesson on club release: the left wrist on the downswing, rotation that keeps the clubface on target, and the “hit and stop” drill.
