Beginning golfers are always focused on improving their flawed swings. What many of them don't understand is that their swings may be doomed before they even get started because of an improper set-up.The set-up is defined as the position of the golfer takes before starting his swing. The components of the set-up include the posture the player takes; the positioning of the ball in relation to the stance; the stance itself including weight distribution; and the muscular readiness of the player.To have the right posture the golfer should maintain an erect spine structure (no slumping) with the bend forward coming from the hip sockets. The hip sockets themselves should be pushed backward behind the heels. This creates the forward spine angle.Ball position is determined by the club you are using and the desired trajectory of the shot. The grip end of the club should be where the lead arm falls from the shoulder socket. The angle of the club shaft will move the ball position from under the lead shoulder with a driver to under the sternum for wedge shots.For the stance the ankles should be placed as wide as the shoulder joints and the weight spread across the feet as it is when you are standing tall. With the hips positioned behind the heels the knees should be slightly flexed to create a bent-forward position of balance.The spine needs to tilt toward the trail side (away from the target) so the trail hand is lower then the lead hand. The tilting of the spine forward from the hips and toward the trail side sets your sternum pointing toward the ball and determines the center of rotation for the swing.When you have your body in the set up position you need to monitor the amount of tension in each muscle group. Try to keep your body position so that your balance is stable and the muscles are ready for motion.The set up position has a major influence on both distance and direction of the shot, and thus is a critical element of consistent performance. Even experienced players can benefit by having an expert review their set up from time to time, and during the month of May golfers of all abilities are encouraged to take advantage of PGA Free Lesson Month, when they can receive a free, 10-minute lesson from a participating PGA Professional.To find a PGA Professional near you who is participating in PGA Free Lesson Month, visit www.PlayGolfAmerica.com and click on the PGA Free Lesson Month link, then use the zip code search.(Rick Martino is director of instruction at the PGA Learning Center in Port St. Lucie, Fla. Contact him at pgalearningcenter@pgahq.com or at (800) 800-GOLF.)
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