During a round of golf, you make different types of swings based on how far you have to hit the ball. You need to take a full when using your woods and irons to hit the ball farther than approximately 125 yards; a short swing when hitting pitch shots from short distances or chip shots from just off the green; and a putting stroke with the ball on the green. Each of these requires you to position your feet differently to strike the ball effectively.
Full Swing
Step 1
Move to the side of the ball so your body is parallel to the target line—the line between the ball and your target. Place the club head on the ground behind the ball with your arms hanging below your shoulders. Position your front foot directly opposite the ball, perpendicular to the target line.
Step 2
Place the instep of your back foot against your front foot, so your back foot also is perpendicular to the target line, and the toes of your back foot point a couple of inches behind the ball.
Step 3
Pivot on the heel of your front foot, and rotate your toes forward so they point about 6 inches in front of the ball. That way, your hips can turn freely during the downswing and follow-through.
Step 4
Step away from your front foot with your back foot, placing it back on the ground perpendicular to the target line. Step so your feet are about 2 inches wider than shoulder-width when you prepare to take a full swing with your driver. Shorten this distance about 1 inch with each shorter club.
Pitching
Step 1
Address the ball with your arms and hands directly below your shoulders to set your feet the proper distance from the ball.
Step 2
Position your feet about 12 inches to 18 inches apart, and perpendicular to the target line, with the ball in the middle.
Step 3
Open your front foot about 45 degrees toward the target, pivoting on your heel. Leave your back foot in place.
Chipping
Step 1
Address the ball from the side with your feet far enough from the ball to allow your arms to hang directly below your shoulders.
Step 2
Set your feet only 2 inches to 3 inches apart, perpendicular to the target line. Align your back foot with the ball.
Step 3
Turn both feet forward toward your target, rotating on your heels, to align the ankle of your back leg with the ball. This will promote clean contact.
Putting
Step 1
Address the ball with your arms and hands hanging below your shoulders to position your feet the proper distance from the ball.
Step 2
Set your feet slightly narrower than shoulder width, and perpendicular to your aim line—the line on which you must start the ball so it will finish in the hole. Position your feet so the ball is aligned between them.
Step 3
Step back slightly with your back foot, making your feet exactly shoulder-width apart, and positioning the ball forward in your stance, so you can strike it properly.
References
- "Swing Like a Pro"; Dr. Ralph Mann and Fred Griffin with Guy Yocum; 1998
- "Dave Pelz's Short Game Bible"; Dave Pelz; 2000
- "Dave Pelz's Putting Bible; Dave Pelz; 2000
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