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Power from the Ground Up

If you want more yards, get your hip tilt right


Published: May 01, 2007

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The Problem
You're short with every club because you make a weak, handsy swing.

The Reason
You fail to transfer power from your legs to your upper body. Your problems start at address, where you follow the typical advice and try to make your back as flat as possible. When you do this, however, you create an arch in your lower spine, which tilts your hips too far back. It's impossible to rotate fully and efficiently from this position.

The Solution
Tilt your hips (your "thrusting" move) so they make a perpendicular line with your lower spine. You have the correct amount of tilt when your belt buckle points just above the shaft. This eliminates the curve in your lower back, and sets you in the most efficient—and painless—position to turn and transfer max power from your legs to your upper body.

TRY THIS DRILL TO SET YOUR HIPS FOR A POWER TURN

Step 1
Thrust your hips back until your belt buckle points at the ball.

Step 2
Now reverse your hip thrust, using minimal leg movement.

Step 3
Finally, thrust your hips back slightly to position your pelvis in the middle of your spine.