GOLF Top 100 Teacher Martin Chuck describes a simple feel to generate effortless power and compression with irons. Drawing from coach Craig Shankland's analogy, he defines 'nun' as body-driven motion and 'sum' as wrist hinging. These concepts build swing sequences for various shots.
Martin Chuck, a GOLF Top 100 Teacher, draws on a teaching seminar from about 30 years ago led by Craig Shankland, who worked with Moe Norman. Shankland used 'nun' and 'sum'—terms reminiscent of a Chinese food menu—to describe wrist and body conditions in the golf swing. 'Nun' represents the basic motion driven by large muscles with minimal wrist involvement, forming the foundational action for clean contact. 'Sum' involves wrist hinging to add leverage and power, described as the swing's secret 'oomph.' Chuck applies these to shot progressions. For a bump-and-run, use 'nun, nun, nun' through backswing, downswing, and follow-through. The next level is 'sum, nun, nun,' introducing a subtle wrist set on the backswing while keeping 'nun' in the downswing and follow-through for structure. The advanced 'nun, sum, nun' starts and ends with body motion but adds wrist hinge in the downswing. This sequence promotes effortless speed, better compression, and a 'through impact' feel. Chuck values the memorable phrases, crediting Shankland, as they translate to usable on-course feels. The approach emphasizes starting simple, layering complexity, and accessing advanced moves when ready.