Branson Golf Guide

Address to most people consists mainly of being square to the target line; this is of course is a major factor, but not the only one.  The other elements are foot spread, knee flex, posture and distance from the ball.

I beleive that distance from the ball is the most important element of the address position.  Standing too far from the ball causes a number of things detrimental to good hot making.  First your weight moves out towards the toes, which creates poor balance.  Second, you’ll tend to stiffen your knees, which destroys good leg action.  Finally your posture will be poor.  You will almost always slump forward with the shoulders, rather than flexing at the knees.

The most important recognizable signs of standing too far from the ball prior to swinging are; if both arms are rigid or if the butt of the shaft is more than six or seven inches from your body.  You are also too far from the ball if you cannot wiggle your toes at address, meaning you have too much weight on your toes.

Whether teaching or practicing myself, I like to keep it simple on the range.  I like to have my students practice with the mid-iron they are most comfortable with.  By selecting a club like a seven or eight iron, a club you generally hit well, you start off with confidence and can much more prepare for your round of golf or get into a good practice routine.  There are so many variables in the golf swing that we should at least give ourselves the advantage of starting off comfortable.  Try it the next time you go to the range, you will be pleasantly surprised at how much better your session goes when you have confidence in yourself.