How to Turn Without Hurting Your Back

Your Action Plan

What: In the backswing, allow your entire lead side (hip, knee, ankle) to release back and around to complete a full, centered rotation.

Why: Many golfers try to restrict the lead side, which prevents a full turn and forces the body to sway (shift off the ball) instead of rotating around a center point. Releasing the lead side enables a deep, powerful, and balanced coil.

How to Practice the Release:

Notice how your feet must gently come off the ground to allow your hips and shoulders to rotate fully beneath your head. This confirms the natural athletic movement.

Feel the Hip Move Back: Focus on turning the lead hip back, almost as if it’s moving behind the golf ball.

Observe the Knee: The lead knee should also be pointing back behind the ball’s position.

The Result: A natural consequence of proper rotation is that the lead heel and foot will lift off the ground . Do not try to keep the foot planted if it restricts your turn.

The Standing Pivot Drill (No Club):

Place your hands behind your back and stand up straight (forget golf posture).

Start pivoting/turning right and left, keeping your gaze fixed straight ahead (don’t let your head turn).