Golfing Posture – Golf Pro Paul Thompson’s Tip of the Week
Advanced PGA Professional Paul Thompson is the resident professional at Powerscourt since 1995. In addition to providing coaching on-site he also is a coach with The Golfing Union of Ireland.
Check out our blog where Paul will regularly be posting articles guiding you through all facets of your golf game. This week’s advice features Golfing Posture.
GOLFING POSTURE
Posture is the term used to describe how a golfer stands to the ball. The golfing posture can maximize balance poise and the athletic potential at address. The aim is to carry these qualities over into the swing to increase power and control.
Incorrect posture leads to loss of balance, co-ordination and control in the swing, which inevitably leads to bad shots.
Try this routine in practice to develop good posture:
- Take hold of your club and stand in a natural upright position with your back straight and your arms extended so your club is about belt buckle height and the club is pointing slightly downwards.
- Bend forward from your upper hips/lower waist keeping the back straight until the clubhead touches the ground. Try to keep your hip girdle neutral and not tilted.
- Try not to push your backside out – the idea that you should feel like you are sitting on a bar stool is incorrect and will lead to a weak core position.
- Flex the knees to release the tension that has developed but do not over bend them.
- Position the head so that it forms a natural extension to the spine. The chin should not be tucked into the chest.
- The weight should be on the balls of the feet and not on the heels. The arms should be hanging loosely from your shoulders and your grip should be relaxed.
Paul Thompson
- Advanced PGA Professional
- GUI Provincial Coach
Thanks for the tips Paul!
Appointments with Paul can be booked via Powerscourt Golf Club Reception: Tel (01) 204 6033 or the Golf Shop Tel (01) 2046031. Read more about lessons from Paul Thompson by visiting the Powerscourt Golf Club Website.