The Hip Rotation Check & Fix
If you find it difficult to fully rotate or load into your hips, use this simple check and setup adjustment to improve your mobility:
Flaring the feet opens up the hips, allowing for a nice, smooth loading into the trail side and an easier unloading through the shot.
The Hip Rotation Self-Check:
Stand with all your weight on your right foot first.
Place a golf club horizontally across your hips.
Allow your free foot to move internally and externally while noticing any tightness in your hips.
Repeat this process on the other side to compare your range of motion.
Adjust Your Setup:
If you feel tightness, avoid keeping your toes pointing straight forward.
Flare Your Feet: “March” your toes outward at address to create external hip rotation.
Questions and Answers
Q: Why does Shawna Elliott suggest flaring the feet at setup?
A: Flaring the feet creates external hip rotation, which opens the hips and provides the range of motion needed for a smoother swing.
Q: How can I tell if my hips are too tight for my current stance?
A: You can check by balancing on one foot with a club across your hips; if moving your free leg internally or externally feels restricted, your setup may need more foot flare.
Q: What part of the swing does this setup change help the most?
A: It specifically helps you load into your trail side better during the backswing and unload more smoothly on the way through.
Q: Should my toes be pointing straight forward?
A: Not necessarily. If you have limited internal or external hip rotation, pointing your toes straight ahead can cause tightness and limit your swing.
