Posture for Left-Handed Golfers
By Steve Silverman
Golf can be a complicated game. The difficulties can start early, as there is a proper way to set up and stand even before you tee your ball up and hit it. When you're left-handed and the initial instructions you receive are designed for a right-handed golfer, you have to switch them around to suit your needs. In a sport as complicated as golf, this can send a new golfer into a state of frustration.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Stand to the right side of the ball. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, and you should play the ball midway between your right and left feet.
Bend your knees slightly as you line up to hit the ball. You should be about 2 feet from the ball, and your arms should be loose as you put the clubhead behind the ball. Keep your back straight and don't lean over to improve your positioning. If you feel like you must bend your back to reach the ball, you need to get a little bit closer on your original setup.
Keep your weight on the balls of your feet. Some golfers make the mistake of keeping their weight on their heels. This will restrict your ability to turn as you come through the ball. Keeping your weight on the balls of your feet will make it easier to turn.
Bend your left knee slightly before you begin your swing. You will rotate your knee nearly 180 degrees as you swing the club, and by twisting it inward before you start, you will be able to swing the club much easier.
Point your right shoulder directly at your target. This will either be the green or a spot on the fairway. Look down at your right foot. It should be directly underneath your right shoulder.
Tips & Warnings
Go to the driving range, and make sure you are comfortable in your setup. If you find you are reaching for the ball, you are too far away and need to move closer.
About The Author
Steve Silverman is an award-winning writer, covering sports since 1980. Silverman authored The Minnesota Vikings: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly and Who's Better, Who's Best in Football -- The Top 60 Players of All-Time, among others, and placed in the Pro Football Writers of America awards three times. Silverman holds a Master of Science in journalism from the Medill School of Journalism.
