While many of us may think that the golf swing is all about the hips, back and arms, oddly enough, it’s the feet that play a major role in how effective you hit your shot.
No, you’re not using your feet to leap like a basketball player or run like a football player, but the feet are a key principle in the swing because they allow you to rotate properly when used the right way. This allows you to have better ball-striking ability and distance.
Problem is, too many amateurs often overlook how important their feet are while swinging the golf club. The information below provides some quick tips to correct the issue, leading to longer, more accurate shots.
Narrow your stance
Sure, having a strong base is important, but being too wide promotes swaying and limits your rotation. Instead, try narrowing your stance, which engages the hips more into the swing.
By doing this, it gives you the ability to turn your body back and through the ball much easier, which can help hit the ball straighter. A recommended width is about two to four inches outside of your hips.
How to use your feet and ankles to generate more power in your swing
Keep your weight in the middle of your foot
When your weight is too far forward and on your toes, it can restrict your hip rotation. If you do this, you’re risking an open clubface and limiting your distance.
But by keeping the weight in the middle of your feet, you’ll be able to rotate properly, loading up the weight on your back foot — which maximizes club speed.
Flare your feet
Many amateurs just don’t have the hip mobility that professionals have — and it’s just not something that can easily be picked up, as it comes with years of practice. To help rotate more and get a bigger backswing to gain more distance, try flaring your feet out.
Start with your front foot, flaring it out about two inches. Then do the same with your back foot, flaring it about one inch. This helps with your flexibility, creating a greater range of motion in your hips.