Every round of golf can hold a measure of uncertainty, even if you are a scratch golfer. Swings fall apart on the first tee box and shots fly in all directions, despite the hours spent at the driving range perfecting your swing. It's possible that only minor adjustments are needed, but you also might be ignoring fundamental rules of the golf swing.
Feet
Your feet stabilize your swing, provide balance and keep your shot on target. Check the spacing of your feet. They should be no less than shoulder-width apart and preferably no wider. Place a club shaft parallel to your feet and confirm the alignment of the swing. When you begin your swing, keep your feet planted until your downswing. Then shift your weight forward and place most of your weight on your front foot, with your back foot turned.
Hips
Your hips provide the power. As you begin your backswing, wind your hips back as well. Timing is everything in golf. Your hips should not rotate toward the ball until your hands begin to bring the club down. A successful golf swing will result in your hips pointing toward your target. If your hips are underrotated or overrotated, the ball will slice or hook. Also, maintain a smooth tempo in your hips; being too rushed or relaxed will bring unsatisfactory results.
Arms
By all appearances, your arms are the key to an effective golf swing. But, in reality, your arms are an extension of your entire body's movement. Bring the club back slowly and never bend the arm that is nearest to the ball. Pause at the top when your club shaft is parallel to the ground. Bring your hands down first and do not decelerate until you have made solid contact with the ball.
Grip
If you cannot detect a difference between your grip on a golf club and your grip on a baseball bat, problems abound in your swing. Right-handed golfers should have their left hand resting above the right, and vice versa for left-handed golfers. Overlap or interlock the pinkie of the bottom hand and the pointer finger of the top hand. But most importantly, hold the club firmly enough that it doesn't fly farther than the ball, and loosely enough that the club can turn during your swing. Failure to have a loose grip during your swing will result in hooks and slices.
Posture
Posture will allow you to maintain athletic balance and poise, but it can be the easiest fundamental to forget to double-check. If you are golfing with a partner, get into your golf stance and ask him to push your chest somewhat forcefully. Anything less than remaining absolutely still means your posture is off. Lean forward slightly and keep most of your weight on the balls of your feet. Your knees should be bent comfortably. Leaning too much or standing too straight means you are standing too far or too close to the ball. Always keep your head down during your swing until your club is resting on your front shoulder.
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