To hit a golf ball consistently, you need a solid mental approach to the game. That mental attitude includes knowing that you know how to take a stance, no matter the circumstances. To have the correct posture and swing plane, you must be focused in your mental approach to the game.
Function
Make sure your left shoulder -- if you are right-handed -- is facing the target. To have the correct posture when you line up to hit the ball, your left foot should be directly under the shoulder. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart and the ball should be played about one ball-width closer to your front foot than your back foot. Bend your knees so you can easily shift your weight to your back leg during the backswing and then come forward as you prepare to make contact with the ball.
Significance
Always check your grip before you swing. If your grip is too tight, you may get a bit too close to the ball and have to make an adjustment in your posture as you swing. You want to take that variable out of the equation by making sure your grip is consistent. Grip the club at a "6" on a scale of 1 to 10, which is about the same as a firm handshake with a new business associate.
Swing Plane
Once you are comfortable with your stance and grip, you can take the proper swing at the ball. When you take your club back, you are establishing the arc of your swing. This is known as the swing plane. Some players have a higher swing plane and descend steeply into the ball. Some players have a wider swing arc and do not take the club back as high. There is no right or wrong way to swing the club. However, don't change your arc in the middle of your swing. Whatever plane you are on in the backswing, use the same plane to come down and through the ball.
Considerations
Taller players may have a higher swing plane, while smaller players may take a wider arc when swinging the club. Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf are examples of all-time great players who had a higher swing plane. This is regularly referred to as a two-plane swing. Legendary Hall of Famer Ben Hogan is an example of a player with a lower and wider swing plane. This is known as a one-plane golf swing.
Expert Insight
New and high-handicap golfers may be better served by trying the single-plane golf swing. According to PGA director of golf instruction Ken Martin, the single-plane golf swing is easier to learn. That will make the swing easier to implement on a consistent basis. "Swinging the club on an arc around your body with your arms will deliver the club through impact with a square clubface sending the ball to your target," Martin said.
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