Grip, Stance, Posture, Alignment & How a Swing Feels can Boost Your Game.
Golf is a simple game that, if studied correctly, can seem complicated. The best way to tackle anything complicated is to start with the basics, or in this case, the fundamentals. The fundamentals of golf are Grip, Stance, Posture, Alignment and How a Swing Feels. You can use these fundamentals in learning golf and to boosting your performance to the next level. Here are a few simple ways to master each fundamental’s building block.
1. Grip —
Marking your top hand (or glove) and marking knuckles (or using rings) can be easy reminders for how to position the club handle in your hands.
2. Stance —
Individual for each player, but we find the middle ground is usually best. Here are easy ways to measure your stance.
1) Place your feet very close together and slowly rotate in both directions. Pay attention to your range of motion and your balance.
2) Move your feet wide apart and slowly rotate in both directions. Feel your range of motion and balance. Be honest about if there’s any pain.
3) Stand with your feet directly under your knees and repeat the previous directions. Evaluate mobility compared to balance in each stance to chose which is best for you.
3. Posture —
Our favorite posture drills are Salute the General, Alligator Arms and Close the Car Door. Each movement almost perfectly reflects correct golf postures.
4. Alignment —
Lining up with your golf target is a must! Our favorite practice includes visualizing railroad tracks extending from your body/ball to the target.
5. How a swing feels —
Your swing is a dance; effortlessly slow to begin with an easy transition to effortlessly fast at the end (connecting with the ball) is always the goal.
By Doug Weaver, Director of Instruction Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy