Golf Tip: Set-Up And Pre-Shot Routine

When searching for consistency in golf, it’s important to understand the value of a good set-up. The more consistent we are when setting up to the ball, the more likely we are to produce consistent results. Good routines create good habits, and good habits create consistency. Many missed shots begin before the swing even starts, often due to poor set-up fundamentals. Our mental and physical preparation to address the ball is one of the most important factors in hitting quality golf shots.

Too often, golfers carry too many swing thoughts onto the course and become overly mechanical. Maybe it’s from watching too many videos online or working on changes after a lesson, but when it comes time to play, we can’t overthink the golf swing. While swing changes may be necessary during practice, those thoughts should be minimized during a round.

To simplify things when playing on the course, it’s best to focus on our set up and remembering “GPA” — Grip, Posture, and Alignment. Once those fundamentals are in place, we can swing freely and athletically. Watch the video explanation below, or keep reading for more details.

Grip

Your grip is your only connection to the club, so it’s important to make sure it’s correct. The club should sit more in the fingers than the palms, with just enough pressure to maintain control of the club — not too tight and not too loose. You should be able to see two knuckles on your lead hand, and the “V’s” formed by your thumbs and index fingers should be parallel and pointing toward your trail shoulder.

Alignment

Alignment starts with the clubface. The face should point where you want the ball to begin, understanding that the shot may curve or break depending on the situation, so the start of the ball may not be where you want it to end up. Whether it’s a drive, iron shot, chip, or putt, every shot should begin with a clear visual picture of the desired start line and outcome.

Before stepping into the shot, stand behind the ball facing the target and pick your target line. This should also include an intermediate target — something two or three feet in front of the ball that helps you aim the clubface accurately. Using an intermediate target makes it easier to commit to your line and swing with confidence.

Posture

Posture is unique to every player, but there are a few general fundamentals. Your feet should typically be about hip-width apart, slightly wider with the driver. Bend from the hips with a straight back and a slight knee flex. With irons, allow the arms to hang naturally from the shoulders, while with woods and the driver the hands can sit slightly farther from the body. Your weight should feel balanced in the balls of your feet throughout the swing.

Create Flow and Rhythm

Lastly, every golfer should develop a pre-shot routine that includes movement and flow. This may include a practice swing/warm up swing, but it should feel loose and athletic rather than rigid or overly technical. The routine should only take 15-20 seconds and move with flow.

The goal of the pre-shot routine is to prepare both mentally and physically for the shot ahead. Remember, when you’re on the course, you’re playing — not practicing. Trust your preparation, let go of excessive swing thoughts, commit to the shot, and swing freely. Creating rhythm and flow in your routine can lead to a freer motion and, ultimately, better execution on the course.

This tip was provided by Ashley Wolford, PGA. Visit the Golfing Tips page at GolfIncline.com for more tip videos and articles and the Golf Academy page for lessons and clinics.