Pretty much every player understands how important it is to create torque in the swing. More torque equals more power, and you get it as you separate your upper body turn from your lower body turn. Both rotations are important, but the more you can turn your upper against your lower, the more torque — and potential energy — you create.
However, it’s not just about turning. Creating torque has everything to do with how your feet interact with the ground, and where you place your feet is key. Traditional instruction says to situate your feet under your shoulders. My studies and that of many other Top 100 Teachers and researchers suggest that doesn’t quite cut it. The new standard is to take your stance so that your knees — not your feet — are under your shoulders.
You can check if your stance is wide enough by simply dangling a club from either armpit. If the club lines up with your knee (see below), you’re solid — and prepped to get your body in position to create torque and generate a more powerful strike.
Joe Plecker is the director of instruction at the Landings Club in Savannah, Ga.
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