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A perfect swing begins with a perfect set-up. By
aligning our body and our club square and on-line to the target, if
we hit it correctly, the ball will go exactly where we “hope” it
will go. Our alignment however, is just one piece of the puzzle.
With a correct neutral grip, we can now set-up to the ball.
Whether you are
hitting a driver off the tee box, or chipping around the green,
having a correct set-up is essential. A perfect set-up always
includes two important parts: posture and balance. Perfect posture
means that no matter what the shot, you are comfortable over the
ball, and are in an athletic position. Since golf is a sport and
golfers are athletes, it goes without saying that all athletes must
“look the part”. To do this, first, relax.
Tension is the #1
killer in all golf swings. When addressing your ball, your spine
should be angled in such a way that has your shoulders on top of
your toes and our arms hanging freely down from the shoulders. A
good way to test this is by getting into position, and taking
your right arm off of the club and let it hang freely. If you let
your right arm swing loosely, it will come right back to your club.
With this, bend your knees just enough to earn our second point of
discussion, balance.
Without balance, it is guaranteed our perfect swing will fail. Our
weight should be centered over the sole of your feet, and your feet
should be spread accordingly
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For chips, pitches, and your
low irons (8,9) your feet should be closer than shoulder width
apart.
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For your mid-irons (5-6-7)
your feet should be shoulder width apart.
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For your long-irons and
woods, your feet should be wider than shoulder width apart, because
with the increased shaft length means increased stability.
Balance also
comes with swinging within your limits. A controlled tempo golf
swing will incorporate balance, so know your limits. Good exercise
programs and proper practice techniques will help you develop a
sound swing!
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