Cheat Sheet: A 5-part checklist to make your setup perfect every time

A good setup is such an important part of a good golf swing. Yet routinely golfers overlook it, dismiss its importance or let it slide. Often, problems in your ball-striking emanate from your setup position. And the thing is, it’s probably the easiest thing in golf to fix.

There’s no excuses not to have that nailed-down. To help you do that, it’s best to work it into your pre-shot routine, says coach Jackson Koert, who works alongside GOLF Top 100 Teacher Tony Ruggiero at Frederica Golf Club. Follow this simple five-part checklist in the video, and your setup will be locked-in without much thought.

Checkpoint #1: Grip Behind Ball

Don’t get into a habit of fussing with your grip while you’re standing over the golf ball. Get it set behind the ball so you don’t have to think about it at any point in the future.

Checkpoint #2: Pick An Intermediary Target

Pick a spot just in front of the ball use that as your target. And, as recent research shows, the more you lock into that intermediary target, the more likely you are to hit it well.

Checkpoint #3: Set Your Feet, Hips, Shoulders

Now that you’ve got your grip and clubface set, focus on your feet, hips, and shoulders, they should all be lined up parallel to your target line.

Checkpoint #4: Spine Tilt

This is an important one, and it’s often overlooked by recreational golfers. Tilting your upper body slightly away from the target will help prevent you from coming over the top and — especially with a driver — promote an upward swing at the ball.

Checkpoint #5: Tempo

Now that you’re setup, you’re ready to swing. But I don’t want you thinking about much. You can have one swing thought, maybe a maximum of two. Your main thought should be of making a smooth, un-rushed swing.

Watch the full video below: