SETUP & ALIGNMENT

Last month we discussed the mental dimension at address, CENTRED & CONCENTRATED.

In this issue, working downwards in our 3 x 3 multi-dimensional game improvement blueprint to the technical dimension at address, Steph talks about the effect of different grips on the performance golfer’s ball flight, whilst Gabba offers some basic, sound advice on aim.

SETUP AND ALIGNMENT for New Golfers, by AA-class PGA professional,Gabba Wessels

One of the most common mistakes golfers make is setting up shut to the target line, which  aims the body right of target (for right-handers), which in turn causes of the most common  swing fault of all – coming over the top.

It is therefore extremely important to aim and align well and you are advised to check this on a regular basis with your caddy, playing partner or your Gary Player professional!

Be sure to set up with your feet, knees, hips and shoulders aligning parallel to your target line, as Gabba demonstrates below.

Setup Alignment

Last month we discussed the mental dimension at address, CENTRED & CONCENTRATED.

In this issue, working downwards in our 3 x 3 multi-dimensional game improvement blueprint to the technical dimension at address, Steph talks about the effect of different grips on the performance golfer’s ball flight, whilst Gabba offers some basic, sound advice on aim.

SETUP AND ALIGNMENT for New Golfers, by AA-class PGA professional,Gabba Wessels

One of the most common mistakes golfers make is setting up shut to the target line, which  aims the body right of target (for right-handers), which in turn causes of the most common  swing fault of all – coming over the top.

It is therefore extremely important to aim and align well and you are advised to check this on a regular basis with your caddy, playing partner or your Gary Player professional!

Be sure to set up with your feet, knees, hips and shoulders aligning parallel to your target line, as Gabba demonstrates below.

GRIP POSITIONS, by AAA-class PGA professional, Stephan Spies

It is important to understand the different grip positions and how they will affect the direction of your ball flight.

A “weak” grip, as highlighted below in pink, will help you shape the ball from left to right. Making the grip slightly weaker will help you to leave the clubface open to promote that cut spin which will shape the ball to the right for right-handers.

The “neutral” grip, which sees the V between thumb & index finger pointing to the right shoulder for right-handers, creates a straight flight and should  be your stock standard grip.

A “strong” grip, as indicated below in blue, will help you shape the ball from right to left. Making the grip slightly stronger will help your hands to release the clubface to put more draw spin on the ball.

Make sure to visit your Gary Player professional to help you shape the ball, because there is more to it than just changing your grip…

Steph’s SHORT GAME TIP

Before executing a chip shot, first make a practice chip to see where the club is bottoming out in the grass. This will help you determine where your ball position should be.