How to Set Yourself Up for the Shot: Creating the Perfect Golf Stance

Ever wonder how the golf pros are so good at their game? They pay attention to the golfing basics and are extremely focused on technique. Even if you do not plan on becoming a pro, it is still vital that you learn the principles of how to play the game properly. You can improve your game by mastering one skill at a time. One of the simplest elements of golf is the stance, or the way you stand before striking the ball. If you want to make a change to your golf game, work on stance first. Here are a few tips to help you learn the correct posture of the golfing stance.

• Align your Body: The first thing that you need to do is align your body with the position of the ball. Aim your club and body towards the target; incorrect alignment will lead to misdirected shots.

• Shoulders: Your shoulders should be parallel. This means that they will be aiming slightly left of the target (for righties) or right (for lefties).

• Feet: Both feet should be positioned the same way. Most often they will be square with your shoulders. Good positioning of feet will allow for flexibility in your backswing and better rotation speed.

• Weight Transfer: Your feet also determine the amount of weight you transfer while playing the shot. So it is crucial that you get this step right!

• Solid Foundation: When golfers take up a square stance, it translates to a solid foundation. This helps in easily performing the backswing.

• Hands: Place your hands slightly ahead of the ball. Your posture should ensure optimum swing balance for maximum efficiency.

• Equal Weight: Don’t overburden either of your feet with more weight. Try to get the right balance, and place your weight equally on both feet.

• Knees: Flex your knees slightly but not too much. This will give your lower body freedom and give you better fluency.

• Inconsistency: Regularly changing the angle of your back, knees and feet will lead to inconsistency and poor shot making.

• Varying Positions: Remember that the actual position of the body will vary depending on the type of club you are using. You will only need to make minor adjustments while the basics will remain the same.

• Tension-Free: Keep your body tension-free. Do not put additional pressure or force on your upper torso. Just let it move naturally.

A good set-up immensely increases your chances of making a good swing, which is why it’s important to learn the basics of stance before practicing shots. Everyone seems to be in a hurry to play golf, which is not the way the game is meant to be played. Golf requires dedication and patience, and it takes a lot of time to get the techniques down pat. If you can master positioning, then you will have already improved your chances of achieving your golfing goals before you hit the green.