Plaguing Pelvis Positions

I just wanted to take the time to thank all my readers and golf students who continue to motivate me to provide highly quality instruction. I pride myself in bringing a research based approach to golf instruction that is often insightful and less talked about. My teachings debunk a lot of myths and faulty traditional teachings that have thus plagued golfers in the trying to get better. So after reading some of my articles, you find yourself swing better, please share my blog and tell others in return for this free service :) In this article, I discuss the motion in the pelvis that contribute to a faulty swing, what I call "Twisting." A deadly move that most people do.

In an earlier article, I talk about how the discerning difference between pros and amateur swings is their ability to create more separation int their bodies (Arms, torso and hips) and how this creates in effect a sort of "Gear" effect. The correct motion gives an appearance that the hips and body are more open and impact and the spine angle is in tact. This motion is in contrast to high handicap players who try to "Clear" their hips simply by trying to fire their hips! Does this sound like you? If this is you be very careful because you may cause more injury and you'll in fact get the opposite effect which is early extension and getting on your lead toe on the finish. I cannot count the amount of people who come to me with this problem, it's nearly everybody.

In order to solve this problem, one of the first things I look for is the pelvis orientation at setup. Most people are under the impression that their backs need to be perfectly straight and do so by excessively sticking out their butt. If you do this, it will engage too much of the lower back muscles in your swing. When you do this, your pelvis will begin to twist in more of a level fashion sending your upper body too much away from the target. The fancy term for this is having too much anterior tilt at address. When you setup to more of a neutral position in regard to front to back tilting of the pelvis, you will engage your core and work your swing pressures between you feet more. This will help you feel more centered in you swing and help enormously with balance. I was inspired to write this piece because the recent winner of the Open Championship a model for this subtly but crucial pelvis condition in action, Francesco Molinari.

Take a look and Molinari's swing at setup and you'll notice his completely neutral pelvis position.  It almost looks like he's standing up doesn't he?  I know it's subtle and it's actually really non-exciting, but this is a key to getting into key golf positions.  

So now it's you're turn,  grab a club and try swinging the club feeling like you're standing up.  You'll be surprised because you'll still be able to get the club on the ground.  Also remember this drill will only work if your pressure is also shifting correctly.  If you haven't already please read my articles on ground reaction forces in the swing and get that down before trying this drill.  If you're doing it right, you'll start gaining consistency, power and your golf swing will start looking better.