Last Updated: Nov 20, 2023
Golf Swing Position: Takeaway (P2)
The takeaway, or "P2" is the start of the golf swing and absolutely critical for getting the swing on the correct inclined plane.
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The golf swing has 10 distinct swing positions. The purpose for classifying each position is so that online writers (like myself) and instructors can more easily communicate with the student. While some positions are more relevant than others, each has unique characteristics that allow us golfers to analyze our swing piece-by-piece to improve our overall motion.
The Takeaway (P2) position, also known as “P2” for short is the second position in the golf swing and is part of the backswing.
Takeaway (P2) Position: Overview
The most important factor in achieving an on-plane golf swing is your takeaway.
Sure, you can "re-route" your swing at the top, but for most golfers, getting the takeaway right is one of the most beneficial aspects of the swing to practice.
Down the Line (DTL) View of the Takeaway (P2) Position
Below is the “down the line” view of the Takeaway (P2) position. When filming from the DTL view, it is important to have the camera at waist height pointing down your target line directly below your hands. You can learn more about filming your golf swing in the DTL view in my post on recording and analyzing the golf swing.

Face-On (FO) View of the Takeaway (P2) Position
Below is the “face-on” view of the Takeaway (P2) position. When filming from the FO view, it is important to have the camera at waist height pointing directly in front of your body. You can learn more about filming your golf swing in the DTL view in my post on recording and analyzing the golf swing.

Back (B) View of the Takeaway (P2) Position
Below is the “back” view of the Takeaway (P2) position. This is for illustrative purposes only and I don‘t recommend filming your golf swing from this angle. You should be able to learn whatever you need from the DTL and FO views alone.
