Proper weight placement - starting from address and continuing through the entire swing - is one of the most overlooked parts of the golf swing. (Michael Zito/Eclipse Sportswire)

Proper weight distribution creates solid shots

By Les Miller,
Contributor

One of the most overlooked parts of the golf swing is proper weight placement - starting from the address position and continuing through the entire swing.

When you address the golf ball, you need to have your weight set to maintain proper balance as you strike the ball. As I observe golfers, the first thing I notice is how far they stand from the ball at address.

Standing too far away: This causes the upper body to lose the proper frame, as you become hunched over the ball. The results can vary from hitting behind the ball, fat shots or standing up as you swing through, causing topped or thin shots.

Standing too close: This tends to force you to keep your weight on the heels and leads to an over-the-top motion, creating slices or pulls.

The number one sign that you're addressing the ball improperly? Losing your weight through the hitting area of your golf swing. During your swing, your mind is telling your body it has to move forward or back to hit the ball, so as you enter the impact zone you shift your weight to make contact. This excess movement causes you to lose your balance, which makes you move your head off the ball. If your head moves out or back in the hitting zone, it is almost impossible to strike a solid shot, no matter how good a golfer you are.

Next time you go to the range, experiment with hitting shots, first standing closer to the ball and the farther away from the ball. By this, I mean just an inch or two, no more. You should feel your weight shifting more to your toes as you move farther away and more on your heels when closer. The trick is to find a set-up distance that allows you the ideal weight distribution throughout your swing. Once you find that distance and that improved balance, you should start to notice improved ball striking.

Remember: When you make changes to your set up, it will feel awkward at first, so you'll need to experiment a few times until you find the best position for your swing.

November 2, 2009

Les Miller was a longtime Golf Writers of America member who covered golf instruction for several newspapers and golf publications. His many years of experience as a golf professional, director of product development and tour relations for several major golf companies gave him a unique background and ability to help golfers increase their enjoyment of the game.