Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you become a smarter, better golfer.
So, you want to become a more consistent golfer? It all starts with the fundamentals.
There’s a reason coaches are always harping on fundamentals. They’re the foundation for a solid golf swing, and if you don’t have a solid foundation, you’ll never be able to play consistent golf.
These basics are not “sexy” nor are they the most exciting things to work on. But if you dedicate yourself to learning them the right way, you’ll be well on your way to a much more sound golf game.
One such fundamental that is crucial is your setup, and in the video below, LPGA teaching professional Gia Liwski explains how you can find the best possible setup position for your swing.
How to find the right setup position
When finding the best setup position for your swing, it’s important to note that it will look a little bit different for everyone. Just like most things in the swing, there’s no one-size-fits all position that will work for everyone.
To find the position that is best for you and your body type, Liwski suggests doing a simple test. First, stand tall with your arms dangling and your hands flat on the front of your upper thigh. Now, start to push your hinge at the waist and start to push your hips back as your hands slide down the front of your legs.
Once your fingertips reach the top of your knees, stop and start to move your weight forward onto the balls of your feet. It should feel almost like you are getting ready to dive into a pool.
“This is gonna be especially important with your irons,” Liwski says. “It’ll get your shoulders turning a little steeper and get the club working steeper, which is what we want with the irons.”
From this position, you will be in a great position to put a solid swing on the ball and create crisp, ball-first contact.
By doing this test, you’ll soon find that your setup position may look a little different than your playing partners. Because of our body types, the amount we need to hinge forward will differ slightly from person to person. The key is finding the position that allows your arms to dangle freely in front of you while leaving the correct amount of room to make a solid and consistent swing.
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TheStack App – Speed Training, Wedging, and Putting
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Includes 1-Year Membership to TheStack App
Now on iOS, Android (Beta), and Chrome Web (Beta)
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Guided workout timer for reps, sets, and rest intervals
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Bluetooth Connectivity to integration devices. Hands-free data entry using voice entry technology for non-integrated devices
Membership includes Bundled access to Stack Putting (iOS), Stack Wedging (iOS), and the Learning Library (All Platforms)
Train and track up to twenty local (i.e. family) users under one login. App works with Family Sharing so the entire family can train easily on separate devices
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TheStack Hardware
5 milled Stack weights enable 30 weight combinations between 0g and 300g
Dual-purpose weight case / phone stand
Precisely engineered training club – Adult (41.5″). For Junior sizing, see Fitting Juniors
Stack training requires a speed device that can measure swings without ball contact. This bundle includes our own Stack Radar. View all compatible devices here.
Stack Radar
Measures Swing Speed and Ball Speed. Calculates an estimated Carry Distance and Smash Factor. Can capture swing speed without ball contact
Powers Stack Wedging (iOS), our newest gamified practice feature. Enjoy Seriously Fun wedge practice indoors or outdoors and get accurate feedback regardless of range ball quality or practice environment conditions.
Pairs with TheStack App via Bluetooth to enable advanced features. Adjust for temperature and altitude while fine-tuning ball speed and launch angle for the most accurate feedback
Set speed trigger threshold at 25, 35, 45, or 55 mph to avoid false triggers from fast backswings
Includes a stylized carry case to protect the screen while stored (available exclusively for purchases from our website)
Platform Availability
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