5 Minute Golf Setup w/ Weight Shift

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Once you've mastered the setup, you can add weight shift to your program to begin developing the motor skills needed for one of the most important aspects of the golf swing.

  • You should be completely comfortable with the setup drill before moving on to this drill
  • From a perfect setup, shift your weight one inch to the right, keeping hands and arms still
  • Keep the weight on the inside of the right foot
  • Shift three inches back to the left, bringing your left leg into neutral
  • You can add a slight rotation of the left thigh to help get into neutral


5 Minutes to the Perfect Weight Shift is one of the most overlooked and critical elements to properly sequencing the golf swing.

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Andrew
What should the position of the front front hip be (relative to the ankle) to get axis tilt vs where I should end up in the weigh shift drill? It seems Iike the starting point of the weight shift drill is the same as the ending point if I bump my hip forward for axis tilt.
July 5, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andrew. Sounds like you may be overdoing the tilt. The distance will be relative to genetics. The spacing/width of hip gridle/sockets. After tilt weight should still be about 50/50, but the bump shouldn't get you perfectly stacked on the lead side. Take a look at Common Setup Faults and Fixes.
July 5, 2021
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William
Craig, when you shift to the right 1 inch, how do you maintain that slight tilt? It feels like I am moving into a neutral, centered position with the shift.
April 6, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. You start with about 8-10 degrees of tilt. You will lose some in the backswing. But, the combined lateral and rotational movement in the real swing will help negate major loss.
April 7, 2021
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Alejandro
Hello Craig. After doing some tilt and perfect setup drills, I’m starting with a few weight shift drills. When shifting to the lead side, I feel some pressure on my left gluteus but most of the pressure is on my internal oblique. I’m not sure if either this is a result of the tilt at the setup or I’m doing something wrong. Actually, that pressure on the internal oblique shows in every drill I’ve done so far. Perhaps, it is a muscle I did not use before. Please your comments. Thanks.
April 5, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alejandro. Could be using the muscle for the first time, or over doing the axis tilt at setup.
April 5, 2021
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Merrick
As I'm sure many have done, I blew through these initial steps of set up and weight shift, and have found that I'm not progressing as I'd hoped. So I'm going back to the beginning and taking my time. I've never sent in a video for review because I was waiting to have more of a swing. But now that I'm starting over, when do you suggest I send in my first video and should it be with or without a club?
March 29, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Merrick. Send in now! Club, or drill. You can send in with club so your instructor can tailor to your specific needs. Or, start with a drill to make sure you are nailing the checkpoints.
March 30, 2021
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Martin
Is the weight shift simply a lateral move to the right or is it ok to feel as though I am increasing ground pressure in the heel of my right foot at the same time, (below the ankle joint)?
March 8, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martin. Take a look at How to Swing from the Ground Up, or My Golf Backswing Secrets. You may increase the pressure.
March 9, 2021
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Jason
Hello I still feel like I want to push off the right to shift back left. What is the feeling I should be getting when shifting weight from right to left?
January 21, 2021
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Jason
when I hinge at the hips more at setup I can feel the glutes on the transfer back left....Is this what you should feel
January 21, 2021
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douglas
I added another pic
December 31, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Douglas. Grip looks slightly weak.
January 1, 2021
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douglas
Am I doing this right. I have always had a problem figuring this out
December 31, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Douglas. I don't see anything glaring. But, check to make sure nails aren't digging too much. Take a look at Are Your Golf Grips Fit Properly? Video.
January 1, 2021
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Matthew
Hello Having a tough time starting the initial move of the weight shift to the right without feeling like I'm pushing off my left foot. I feel the increase in weight on the inside of my right foot and feel the inside of the left leg pull the weight back to the left when i shift. It's starting without pushing off the lead foot that i'm struggling with. Thanks
September 21, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. Take a look at My Golf Backswing Secrets. Also, you may just be moving too much. Some players already shift weight in the backswing due to older movement patterns that are already ingrained. You could be feeling the need to push to exaggerate the feel of weight.
September 21, 2020
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Nathaniel
Was wondering if anyone has had success with apps (iOS or Windows) to video yourself doing the drills while adding reference lines on the screen. Seems like that would be a helpfull tool to get the most out of some of the drills.
August 3, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nathaniel. Most players use their Live Camera System, HUDL, or V1 apps.
August 3, 2020
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Bryan
Hi, I feel my right hip interally rotating quiet a bit during this. Is that correct or is it more of a slide to left?
July 27, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bryan. This is more to get the feeling of weight transfer. But, you will have a little bit if the internal femur rotation when making a full swing plus shift.
July 27, 2020
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Bryan
Thank you!
July 27, 2020
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Bryan
Should this drill be performed with axis tilt?
July 27, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bryan. Yes.
July 27, 2020
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Mohnishkumar
Hello craig . How are you . While rotating the left thigh i am feeling that my right thigh is also start rotating. Overall as i am shifting to the left i am felling like. I am rotating the lower body from the beginning. Is that the correct movement ??
May 4, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Monishkumar. Right thigh from the start, or in transition?
May 4, 2020
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Mohnishkumar
Hi . I am working in the weight shift right now . Right thigh as start shifting weight towards left side ( transition ) .
May 4, 2020
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Mohnishkumar
Hii guys,while shifting back to the leead leg.Do we have to shift 3 inches by rotating the left thigh or the left thigh will get rotated by the shifting of 3 inch as we pull from the left hip.Which sequence is correct?
April 30, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Monishkumar. You will be pulling with the lead thigh inner adductors as you allow the lead oblique to help square the hip.
April 30, 2020
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Ryan
Is the timeframe over which these drills are completed critical. For example, it says to complete the 1,000 reps over 1 month. If I completed 1,000 reps over 1 week would I have the same result, from a neuroscience perspective?
March 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ryan. The reps are the most important component. If you have the time and ability to do them correctly (each one) during your sequence. No issues cutting down the time.
March 7, 2020
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Gary C
Should my weight stay on the inside or outside of my left foot when I shift back towards the target and neutral joint alignment?
February 11, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. It will from from the inside to over the center of the ankle joint.
February 12, 2020
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Gary C
What is the weight distribution split between my too feet at the completion of this particular drill? I know I will have more weight on my left foot but not as much as I would at the completion of the Post Up move, correct? If about 80% of my weight should be on my left foot and heal at the completion of the Post Up, how much should be on the left foot at this checkpoint.
February 12, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. If you are adding that little bit of hip rotation Chuck mentions in the latter half of the video. You should have 80% of the weight over there. I would recommend you reach that position.
February 12, 2020
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Gary C
I am currently working on the 5 min to perfect setup without weight shift and was thinking that adding the weight shift to that drill would be my next logical step. After reading your last comment I am wondering if I need to do the transition and post up dead drill videos next so I get the knee movement and the hip rotation. Am I overthinking this? Which drill would you recommend as the next most logical step in the process?
February 12, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. If you have a good understanding that weight needs to move in the swing and you can feel the change from trail to lead (as Chuck does in this video). I have no issue with you moving onto the DEAD portions of transition and post up. This will help you make the move more dynamic which will make it more fun to work on.
February 12, 2020
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Gary C
Does the knee pull the body back to neutral joint alignment when the weight shifts back to the lead foot? Should I be performing the squat to square and post up moves to complete this drill?
February 12, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. The lead knee will externally rotate to get stack and the inner thigh adductors will pull the weight. Which Muscles to Feel During Golf Swing Transition Video. For the DEAD Drill 2/3 you will need squat and post. For above just some slight rotation and clearing of the hip.
February 12, 2020
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Mohnishkumar
Hi, As you see in this video while, the chuck shifting to the right his head is also moving an inch . But , if you see the 30 min takeaway video. In that video he clearly said that you should not move your head just pull from the hip and keep the head quite .
February 11, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Monishkumar. The head will have to move a little in the golf swing to shift weight. We tell players to keep it steady because most move it too much. It will move a little and Chuck's moves more than others because his neck is fused from C1-C3.
February 11, 2020
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Chris
Question for Patrick please based on our swing reviews, in a proper full swing , during the one inch lateral weight shift ( backswing ) , is the any rotation at all? It feels like there should be a few degrees of turn to feel natural ?
October 25, 2019
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Patrick (Certified RST Instructor)
In actuality, there is rotation on the right hip. However, if you're not loading the right leg and glute, you need to exaggerate the shift at first. Do this slowly and break into two parts: shift (1), PAUSE, and rotate (2) USING YOUR ABS to turn. As you get better and put in more reps, you will increase the pace a little and it will become one fluid motion. All the while, make sure you're looking in front of a mirror to get feedback.
October 26, 2019
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Mohnishkumar
Hii craig,hope you are doing well,with long irons,woods and driver too;should we have to shift 1inch in backswing and 3 inches in downswing.I'm quiet confused about this cause with those clubs we are increasing our stance witdh.
October 2, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mohnishkumar. The driver should be the only one we are really adjusting the stance in. Therefore, with those if you have the wider stance you will have to move/work a little harder to complete the weight transfer back to the lead side. Backswing will be roughly the same with the increase in pressure.
October 2, 2019
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Peter
I'm 400 reps into the Setup drills and have just started the 1st weight shift drill. When should I send in the 1st video and should it be a full swing?
September 21, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. I would send in a Face On and Down the Line of new improved setup trying to shift your weight correctly in a full swing. Therefore, the instructor can have a baseline of what is your typical tendencies.
September 21, 2019
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Nolan
The feeling I get when shifting weight to my lead leg is pushing through my lead heal and straightening my lead leg. Would this be correct?
August 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nolan. Pushing through the lead heel is a correct feeling. However, the lead leg won't start straightening until you start posting up.
August 7, 2019
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Michael
What constitutes a repetition for the rep tracker? Is it each individual weight shift or the sequence of 10 (i.e. if I do 10 shifts, is that 1 rep or 10 reps)?
July 4, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. In posture and moving the weight to the trail and back to the lead constitutes 1 rep. 1 move 1 rep.
July 5, 2019
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Michael
Thanks Craig!
July 5, 2019
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Bradley
After sending my video on for review I was told to watch this video. Shifting my weight one inch to the right feels like “swaying” my hips. How do I shift my weight one inch to the right but not sway?
July 4, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bradley. In this drill it may feel like swaying, but when combined with rotation it won't be. Take a look at Weight Shift Video Part 2.
July 5, 2019
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Mike
My question is when practicing this drill, should you add Axis Tilt?
June 23, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Mike. My understanding. You want axis tilt in your golf swing so I would add axis tilt in the drill.
June 23, 2019
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Mike
Thanks
June 23, 2019
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Tram
I have posted my video in the Swing Review. I was informed I started shifting the weight to the right by pushing the left side. What is wrong with this move. Thank you very much.
June 15, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tram. Take a look at Push vs Pull. You don't move to the right by using your left side. That would be like driving and turning on your right turn signal, but making a left. If you push from the left to get to the right you will have a tendency to sway, or move too much off the golf ball. One thing I commonly see from this move it excessive head movement.
June 16, 2019
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Bill
I have moderate to severe arthritis in my left hip and swing the club from the left side. Could this impact my ability to turn from the core and get turn with still keeping my knees from moving back. Any suggestions.
June 1, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bill. It may have some impact, but you shouldn't be moving too much laterally to cause too many issues. I would work on the Body Rotation in Golf Backswing - Chair Drill Video to feel how the core rotates with little hip movement. And, then combine with the Weight Shift Part 2 Video to make sure you load the glute and don't break the hip line (sway).
June 1, 2019
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Cameron
When I do this, I feel the weight in my left glute when I shift to the left but still some pressure on my quad. Is some pressure ok or am I moving wrong? Cheers
May 2, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Cameron. The quad will be providing support, but shouldn't be the main show of attraction. As long as the majority of pressure is felt in the lead glute you should be fine.
May 2, 2019
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Bill
It appears to me that Chuck is doing this drill without axis tilt. Should I be doing the drill without axis tilt? If one were to first stand with left hip joint 2" inside neutral, the axis tilt pushes the left hip about 2" left (from what I see in the perfect setup videos). Then a 1" right and 3" left weight shift would put the left hip 2" past neutral. Where am I going wrong?
April 26, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bill. Yes, you should be doing this with axis tilt. Sounds like you are adding too much axis tilt. You shouldn't have so much axis tilt, or the stance so narrow you are already in perfect NJA. Take a look at Common Setup Faults and Fixes Video.
April 26, 2019
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David
Great Video!
March 13, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Thanks!
March 14, 2019
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Patrick
I go through my routine daily (missed 3 days since Dec. 26) from set up to rotation to impact and finally to full swing. This takes anywhere from 2-3 hours. I video everything and couldn't be happier with my progress, I truly look to have a solid fluid swing with plenty of speed and i hit all my spots. The trouble is it is not traveling, today was the third time at the dome hitting balls and for the third time I was hitting the ball worse than before I started the program. My question is when will it start to translate to my actual game? Does it take others as long, putting in the so many hours of deep practice? (I read Coyle's book).
February 13, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patrick. You need to start smaller and/or at pace. Work from a proper 9 to 3 and gradually make it longer so it will be easier to apply the newer motor patterns. Also, try some swing at a much slower pace. Focus on proper movements and not ball striking. It will start to show up. Also, are you sure you are hitting the correct positions with a ball in front? Or, looks good and just bad striking? Take a look at Why Your Practice Swing and Real Swing Aren't the Same Video too.
February 13, 2019
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Gerald
Hi Craig, I have been performing the weight shift drill and I am pulling from left side but my right foot stays flat and does not tilt up. When Chuck does the drill his right foot appears to tilt to left. Am I doing the drill correctly? Thanks
January 31, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gerald. You maybe not getting enough weight to the lead side. Take a look at Role of the Right Foot.
February 1, 2019
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Steven
Criag, thanks for the feedback on my set-up and full swing. Could you clarify that you want to see the next submission without a golf club? Should this video be with my arms across my chest.
January 16, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. Yes, without a club and across the chest. The video above you may hang the arms, but I would like to see across the chest like Step 2 - Core Rotation Video.
January 16, 2019
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Steven
Thanks
January 17, 2019
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dave
With the weight shift to the left, what happens to the left knee bend. Maybe for this exercise it is still bent slightly? But for a full swing, does it straighten completely?
January 15, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. During the shift the knee shouldn't be straightening. The straightening will happen when you post up and clear the hips.
January 15, 2019
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Charles
When you shift your weight to the right (back foot), do you lose the some of the axis tilt created at setup? If not, how is it possible to shift the weight right without also swaying your head?
January 14, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Good connection. You will lose a little bit of tilt due to the weight shift. Hence, why you need a good amount of tilt at address.
January 15, 2019
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Theunie
Hi Craig I’m now working hard on my weight shift and core rotation having not done this properly in all my years of golf. Should one try to start the right weight shift movement and the core rotation at exactly the same time or perhaps rather start the right shift a fraction earlier than the rotation? If I start fractionally earlier with the right shift only (thus meaning that the club moves back slightly later) I somehow manage to get my right heel down easier and firmer and also hold my balance better than when I try to do both exactly together
January 12, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Theunie. Shift and rotate. Starting slightly with weight shift will help with tension and make the move much more free flowing. Take a look at My Golf Backswing Secrets Video.
January 12, 2019
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Steven
When Chuck shifts an inch to the right it looks like his shoulders move laterally as well. Is the aim to try and move the hip only when transferring wieght to the right? Also, is the weight to stay over the ankles with each lateral move or is the weight more on the heel when pulling to the left?
January 11, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. Weight should remain over the ankle joints and when you shift it shouldn't solely be a hip slide. The whole body needs to move. When you start combining with rotation it will appear as if you never move off the ball.
January 11, 2019
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Steven
Thanks Craig. If the whole body moves laterally does this also apply to the head moving to the right and then left for the drill? Cheers
January 13, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. There will be minimal head movement to the right and left. Not much. But, it can't stay perfectly still.
January 13, 2019
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Steven
Thanks Craig I will keep practicing and send a review through when I think I have it nailed.
January 13, 2019
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Theunie
Thanks for your quick reply Craig. I’m really enjoying working through the videos sequencially. I’m only at the weight shift drill now and don’t want to jump too much forward. So in the mean time can I assume that the weight shift in the full swing will also only be 1”L/3”R? If so then it is actually a rather delicate move in the bigger swing movement
January 9, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Theunie. The weight shift in the full swing you will actually be shifting the width of the pelvis. Roughly 6 - 8 inches. The 1 - 3 is lateral, but when combined with rotation the distance will be greater and also make the move more balanced.
January 9, 2019
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Theunie
Craig further to the various axis tilt questions and your answers thereto below please clarify for me. In Chuck’s axis tilt video in the setup section it appears as though the tilt takes him to neutral left leg alignment. In this 5 minute setup video he says that the 3 inch left shift following the 1 ince right shift will take one to neutral joint alignment. Is this correct or would one not end outside left alignment?
January 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Theunie. You shouldn't end up outside NJA after the shift back to the left. It may appear that he is perfectly stacked at setup, but his his socket is slightly behind after adding tilt.
January 8, 2019
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Steven
I have really enjoyed starting this course but am a bit confused about how far I should have progressed by the end of step1. Is it the 5 min setup with weight shift?
January 4, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. Setup and weight shift would be ideal. Therefore, you could start adding more advanced movements with rotation next.
January 5, 2019
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Steven
Thanks very much Craig.
January 8, 2019
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Patrick
when I send in my weight shift video for review, do you require a full swing with club, or just my progress up to this point? I'm reluctant to put a club in my hands just yet.
December 31, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Patrick. Either one will do. I would suggest a normal swing for you to see progress so far and to get a good baseline of priorities.
December 31, 2018
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Patrick
What happens to my spine angle set up when i make my 1inch weight shift?
December 23, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Partick. Spine angle should remain readily the same. Axis tilt you will tend to lose a couple degrees do to the shifting into the trail leg. That's why we start out with so much at setup.
December 23, 2018
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James
Is the left arm ideally straight down at address? I see slightly angled inward.
December 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Are you referring to the elbow position, or arm from the socket. Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips will help you with placement as will Should You Have Forward Press Video. The elbow will be pointed away from the body as the lead hand is on the inside of the lead thigh.
December 7, 2018
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Andres
When shifting to the left, if I try to keep my hip alignment on left side neutral (ankle, knee, hip socket), the only way for me to feel the glute muscle load is to feel as if im pushing left hip towards my back side, as if im sitting down. Is that the correct feeling?
November 14, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andres. Take a look at Sitting Into the Left Side to see the glute sit. After you shift and get stacked. The lead hip needs to clear and will start to work behind you (away from the ball). You Hit the Golf Ball With Your Legs Video.
November 14, 2018
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roger
Hello, Patrick wants my weight shift to automatically move my arms/hands over my right thigh but with Chuck's move in this video his 1 inch move to the right doesn't get his hands over his right thigh. I feel like I want to settle into my right hips a tiny bit and rotate my hips a tiny bit which bring my hands over my right thigh. ie. a bit of a left move and a little rotation. Is this on track or not so?? Thanks, ROger. Is there a different video that explains this first 'to the thigh' move.
November 9, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. Weight shift and rotation will help you with this momentum Patrick is referring too. I can't think of another video that will show it exactly. But, I would take a look at My Golf Backswing Secrets.
November 9, 2018
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roger
Thanks Chris - yes esp. at 3:49 in vid. you refer to - pushing ankle into the ground. For some reason I thought for swing just to 9 o'clock i wasn't allowed to move hips AT ALL.
November 9, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. Glad it helped. Craig by the way. I know it can get confusing. Everyone here at Rotary has a name that starts with a "C" .
November 9, 2018
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roger
Whoops sorry Craig - is it Friday where you guys are?
November 9, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Roger. Yes. 11pm on a Friday. No problem. I was just ribbing you a little
November 9, 2018
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roger
Hi I am doing some work on shifting weight into the right leg with Patrick. I'm a bit confused how to move your weight the 1 inch without moving your head. The person on the right only moves his head a bit near the top of the swing. How do you move to the right a inch but not move your head? Do you just move your lower body? Will this cause a reverse pivot? Thanks, Roger.
October 29, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. The guy on the right is Chuck . Chuck's neck is fused in the C1-C2 area and now C3. You may see a little more movement in his versus some other swingers. Nevertheless, you are correct. You can't shift your weight without slight head movement. The head won't stay perfectly still throughout the swing. Very minimal movement in the backswing is okay.
October 29, 2018
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Gregory
I have found that when i initially do my axis tilt and then i shift to the right an inch that i sometimes lose some of the axis tilt. does this happen? I am trying to be very conscious of it
October 12, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gregory. You will tend to lose some axis tilt as you shift, but not all of it. Take a look at How to Fix Golf Reverse Pivot Video to help you overcome losing it too much.
October 12, 2018
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roger
is there a 5 min video on the hip turn mentioned at 4:14, ta
September 17, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs, Perfecting Lower Body Stability and Step 2 - Core Rotation.
September 17, 2018
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John
During the shift to the left, into neutral position, is the head moving left at all?
September 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. There may be some slight movement. The head doesn't much much in the swing, but definitely isn't completely static.
September 7, 2018
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John
Thanks Craig. What I’m getting at, is as the weight / hip shifts left into neutral position, does the axis tilt increase, due to the head staying back? Also, as the hip is pulled left is that a distinct separate movement from the rotation of the hips?
September 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You will have some increase in tilt called Secondary Axis Tilt when shifting the weight with the head staying mostly quiet. The hips will have to rotate as you shift weight in the swing (Closed Hip Slide and Preventing Hip Pain). The post up and weight shift are two different movements though.
September 7, 2018
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Navid
Hello. I've been doing this drill and feel like Ive done hundreds of reps correctly. When i go to the range, however, its very difficult to implement. Should we not be going to the range or practicing until we finish the course? As for the weight shift. Is the entirety of the weight shift just the one inch to the medial aspect of the trail foot and then two inches back?
August 20, 2018
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Howard (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Navid. When you challenge yourself by adding more speed or distractions like a club or ball, try to stay at a level that you can still do the motions correctly. Having proper feedback such as video will help you determine how fast you can go, which in many cases is no more than a chip shot at first. As for weight shifting forward, if your feet are set up properly at 2 inches outside of neutral, 1 inch back and 3 inches to the left will align your lead foot, knee and hip socket correctly.
August 20, 2018
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Billy
I just started the course 2 weeks ago. I have done about 1600 reps of this drill. I grabbed a golf club and swung to see if I could feel the weight shift. I felt like I didn't shift at all. Is it normal to do this many reps and not be able to feel the drill with a full swing? Granted, I'm only on step 1 so wasn't sure if it all came together later on.
August 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Billy. You will feel a little more when you start working on body dynamics and lead arm only. However, you may still not be moving enough in the full swing. Step 2 more than likely will give you some added sensations.
August 7, 2018
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roger
Ha this is great i can do this right in front of my wife and she doesn't know I am practising golf !!
August 1, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. Nice. Sneak in those practice sessions.
August 1, 2018
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Eric
Is it fair to say that it is a shift into the right heel (avoiding moving to the outside of the right heel) and shift to the left heel on the downswing?
July 29, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Yes.
July 29, 2018
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Navid
Hello. Thanks a lot for these videos. When shifting to the left, is the first move to load into your left heel and then externally rotate your knee, etc. I'm only asking because in other videos, loading into the heel is very much emphasized. Thanks a lot for your inpu.
July 24, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Navid. The first move will be a slight external rotation of the lead knee followed by the loading of the glute/settling into the heel.
July 25, 2018
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Artur
Hello. Setup with Axis Tilt ?
June 18, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Artur. Yes.
June 18, 2018
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Kim
I’ve been practicing this but am now told that I’m moving off the ball in my swing review! Is this just a feeling drill? Does it happen in the full swing as a result of core rotation? Pulling?
May 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kim. You definitely will need to shift your weight, but the rotation will make it appear you haven't moved as much off the ball. Take a look at Weight Shift Video Part 2. Also, more often than not moving off the ball is indicative of lead shoulder push.
May 30, 2018
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Kim
Which video is that precisely? Thank you
May 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kim. Weight Shift Part 2 - Right Hip Line. Head Moving off the Ball.
May 30, 2018
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James
After the initial weight transfer, does any more weight transfer? Said another way, is 80% of the weight in the right heal after the initial weight transfer?
May 27, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. 80% of weight into the trail heel during the takeaway. No need to add more.
May 28, 2018
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Roger (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Craig Is it okay to sense a very slight rotation of the uppermost portion of my inner right thigh as I use a slight rotation of my left, knee, inner left thigh, and left hip to pull me 3" left and into neutral joint alignment? Thanks again Roger
April 29, 2018
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Roger (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Craig, Should I establish axis tilt during the setup in golf posture for weight shift drill with and without club? Thanks.
May 10, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. Yes, go ahead and add tilt.
May 10, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. You shouldn't have much sensation, but the trail hip has to follow the lead side motion. A slight rotation (as long as not active) is fine.
April 29, 2018
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stephen
So far in the university series, I see nothing about doing a certain number of reps and keeping track on the rep tracker. Does it come in later or should we make up our own timeline on moving on to the next video or lesson?
April 15, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. The work you need to gauge at your own pace. Some players need more time and reps on individual drills to get the proper movement pattern down. The learning curve is still the exact same. A minimum of 100 reps per session and 3000-5000 to master.
April 15, 2018
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stephen
But if I am understanding the training on learning plus progressing with the movements correctly , than the reps can be on “stacked” drills. Do I understand? Or,would you qualify it further?
April 15, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. Exactly. Drills maybe stacked upon one another. As long as you can perform the move correctly. You may ingrain a drill/move that has multiple pieces. If you can perform Move 1 (takeaway) and Move 2 (takeaway to the top of the backswing) properly in one motion. You can certainly drill the full move as a complete set.
April 15, 2018
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Marc
Hi when I move my weight an inch to the right and push into the inside of my right foot, is this move triggered by the left side or the right side in other words is that a tiny bit of push from the left foot and the left shoulder? I know full well that the game is all about pulling as opposed to pushing and indeed after this 1 inch move, the pulling and the sliding of the right scapula is helping to make things happen but as the shoulders are supposed to move at twice the speed the hips move I find that if I only pull from the start position, the hips will have a tendency to rotate too much. Best, Marc
April 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marc. You require zero push from the lead side to shift into your trail side. You don't use your left to go right. Take a look at My Golf Backswing Secrets to help with the initial move.
April 8, 2018
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Jim
When I rotate my core around my spine, because the bulk of my torso+arms+club is in front of my spine it seems to create a natural weight shift to my right leg without any conscious effort to shift (or maybe that's because there is too much bulk in front of my spine! ). This rotation also seems to create appropriate "loading" of my right side naturally. Is this the weight shift I am looking for or should I be trying to move more to the right as well? Thanks in advance.
February 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. Some players automatically shift their weight due to an older motor pattern already in place. If you are rotating properly and getting loaded into the trail glute. That is the main goal. You may not need to think about the shift if already performing it with your rotation.
February 8, 2018
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Jim
I think that is where I am. I've probably had too much weight shift, especially on the downswing, so weight shift was not a new concept to me. But the videos have been VERY helpful in understanding the sensations I should feel on the backswing and using the left side to generate the weight shift to the left (I was totally pushing off the right side). Thanks again.
February 8, 2018
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Mark
I have now gone thru all of the videos up thru the end of Weight Shift. Should I now pause here while I complete the 1000 reps of the se up/weight shift drill before moving forward? And, I presume it is okay to also do the 100 reps per day of the Weight shift drill with the club (left to right with large steps then smaller steps, some with balls) at the same time as I am working thru my 1000 set up/ weight shift drill? Thanks for your input. I am enjoying the video series and learning a lot of answers to questions I have had for years about set up, ball position, etc.
December 27, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. I would pause here until you are able to freely move weight with the proper setup. Once, you get comfortable and moving properly every time. We will really hone in and/or button up the whole body movement with Step 2. However, like you said "some balls." Try not to get too carried away hitting a ton. More about movement mastery of the engine at this stage.
December 27, 2017
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Mark
Thanks Craig. I have 2 more, unrelated, questions: 1. I usually play a weekly game with a group of friends. Should I not play at all for a few months while I work thru this, or is it ok to go out and play and just realize I won't be able to take the very new moves to the course? 2. Re the building of new neural pathways that come as a result of the daily reps we are doing...I am curious. If I do 300 reps per day, and in 10 days have done 1000 good reps, is that as effective as doing the suggested 100 reps x 30 days? Thanks for your help and input!
December 27, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. Ideally, you wouldn't play golf until you own your new movement patterns. But, I know that is a tough pill to swallow. The key would be if you play. Make sure you keep at least one item you are working on in mind. And, come hell or high water you make that move with the ball in front regardless of the result of the shot. Also, if you are performing them correctly learning is learning. The only issue I see is around 200 it is easy to tire and have the brain start to wander a bit.
December 27, 2017
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Nick
Hi, question on weight shift. At setup i can feel weight is 50/50. When shifting weight one inch to the right i have no problems. When shifting weight back to the left i am not sure if i am doing it correctly. In the video Chuck says to pull from the left. I feel like most of the pull is coming from the left knee to get my weight to transfer without pushing from the right foot. Is this correct or should i be feeling the pull from somewhere else? Thanks, Nick.
December 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nick. The knee starts to externally rotate first followed by lead hip adduction. Take a look at Preventing Hip Pain and Fixing Your Weight Transfer for more details.
December 6, 2017
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David
Hi Craig I have just completed my 1,000 reps on the perfect setup and am raring to get start ... d on weight shift. I have devoured all the videos and have a couple of questions. 1. Regarding the drill demo'd in this video ... do I have to take 4 weeks to get through this, or could I do (say) a morning session and an evening session to get finished. 2. The dashboard only shows a rep counter for "5 minutes to perfect setup/weight change" drill, but the weight shift section include another 5 drills as follows: Video 9 A "Step and swing" drill. This appears also in Video 15 Video 12 A "hop to left heel" drill, a "forward lunge drill" and "sequence of moves from loading the right glute to shifting to the left" Video 16 A "tempo" drill How many reps of these 5 drills should I be doing? What sequence should I follow for the 6 drills and can I can I do some of the drills concurrently? That a lot of questions but I really want to do this right. Dave Carse
November 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. I don't believe you need to perform all 6 of those drills. We can use a combination of them both to achieve the end result. I would start to get at least a 1000 of the above mentioned drill. And, then upload a swing for review. Let me see how it is progressing and adjust the exact video/drill you need to perform a bunch.
November 6, 2017
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David
Thanks Craig. Do you mean 10000 of just "5 minute setup with weight shift" and nothing else? Dave Car
November 6, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Yes. Once you get comfortable with the setup/weight shift. We will make it more dynamic combined with body rotation.
November 6, 2017
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David
Thanks again Craig Dave Carse
November 8, 2017
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Ron A. Sr.
You got the one that I just notice, WEIGHT TRANSFER. I notice with my right leg straight, it will Lock you up for a split second, if you are not paying attention and make you spin your hip. Thanks, keep it coming Ron Nelson
October 11, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ron. No problem. Yes, it will definitely have an effect on proper weight transfer.
October 11, 2017
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Ron A. Sr.
You are right,, but give me some more. l think I notice one but I am not sure. I want all of them.
October 11, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronald. Don't over think this one. The big picture is to keep proper glute load and hip stability. That is the main function. Lacking those causes the chain reaction of all the bad issues. Over turning backswing, early extension/spine angle loss downswing, lack of leverage from ground pull, improper weight transfer back to the lead side, and reverse pivot/loss of axis tilt.
October 11, 2017
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Ron A. Sr.
What are the reasons the right leg should not be straight?
October 11, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronald. There are a lot of reasons. The main one being when the trail leg straightens it will be hard to load the trail glute properly. Therefore, causing lack of load and hip stability. You can over turn, stand up, etc..
October 11, 2017
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Martyn
Hi. I'm going back to the beginning and going through the five steps again from scratch. I've been doing a lot of weight shift drill reps but can't see how to update. I use a Mac not a PC. Is that why I can't see how to add reps to my tracker?
August 20, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martyn. The rep tracker is located under the RST 5 Step Drill Only Videos. For all other drills you will need to use the printouts under the Checkpoints for Practice Tab.
August 21, 2017
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ALEXEY
Hello, please advice if the left leg should stay straight or bent a bit (as in setup position) after you transfer the weight to the left side in the real swing..?
August 2, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alexey. I apologize. Your question was posted when the forum was being rebuilt and therefore was never listed on my system. Sorry for the wait. The lead leg will straighten when you post up into impact. When you transfer the weight you will settle into a squat leaving the lead leg bent or even slightly increased in flexion.
August 21, 2017
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ALEXEY
Hi Graig, thanks for reply! When you say the left leg is "straighten when you post up into impact" - its mean its really straighten completely-completely or still a bit bent..? Don't know how to ask it in details - I mean should you push your knee back to make it really hard straighten or the knee still a bit soft..?
August 22, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alexey. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs Video. The leg should be straight, but not locked out backwards. Therefore, the knee maybe a little soft, but not a whole lot of bend.
August 22, 2017
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ALEXEY
Thank you Graig!
August 22, 2017
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Antonio
I can not see at the video the tilt of the body at setup. If so, the one inches to the right and the three inches to the left would not take you to the neutral alignment, because moving the hip to the left is necessary to tilt the body. Or maybe I misunderstood it.
July 31, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Antonio, you only need a slight amount of axis tilt at address and the one inch to the right would keep the trail hip inside of neutral and the 3 inches back to the lead side would get you back in to nja if you stance width is correct. Send in a video for review and we can take a look at you weight shift on both sides to see if you are doing it correctly.
August 1, 2017
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shayne
Hi I'm doing the weight shift drill with set up , and I feel like my left knee is trying to rotate , I'm trying to do exactly what Chuck is teaching by trying to find neutral joint alignment for my hip over my knee but I'm really having difficulty with my left knee , can you advise me what I might be doing wrong .
July 10, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shayne. Take a look at Fixing Your Weight Transfer.
July 10, 2017
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shayne
Thanks Craig for getting back to me so quickly , I will take a look at the video and hopefully it will fix my problems
July 10, 2017
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Z
Can someone tell me where I can find the printable practice sheets?
June 30, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sherry. Swing Reviews ---> Checkpoints for Practice.
July 1, 2017
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arthur john
I noticed recently I had gradually was developing some pull hooks . I realised I was getting a little outside in downswing and also coming out of the shot. I went through the basics of the system and looked at the weight shift drills. I was not getting properly on my left heel and engaging my left flute. Immediately I felt different. Practiced this proper motion and its fixed. Shows the value of the system that one can return to it when problems occur. Old faults always return. This Rotary system is the real deal.A.John
June 25, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Arthur. Thanks for the positive post and glad you found a cure to your ailment. Keep loading that left "flute" properly .
June 25, 2017
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Steve
I wish you all would add a reps tracker to this drill. This is a drill that requires a rep tracker so we can get our 50 reps a day in over 5 days per week for one month. Steve
June 5, 2017
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roberto
i have been doing the drills for weight transfer, but i am hitting ball with a pitching wedge and hitting between the toe and sweet spot? what may be cause of problem?
June 4, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roberto. I apologize for the late response. Your question was listed on my system. It sounds like you are rushing it a little from the top and getting slightly steep. Trying to save the shot with over rotation of the face.
June 25, 2017
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roberto
thank you for the reply. how do you eliminate this move? does this give you outside in shot? am i not turning correctly or sufficient in the back swing? thanks roberto
June 25, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roberto. Without seeing your swing it would be tough to say exactly what is your issue. It may be lack of rotation back, insufficient weight back to the lead, etc. Too many variables to diagnose the exact issue with face contact I would suggest a swing review hitting your wedge so that one of our instructors could take a look. In the meantime,( if this is for a full wedge shot) make sure you aren't rushing the transition and saving with the hands (How to Fix Plane and Path Video, Flip vs. Release).
June 26, 2017
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David
When I'm in the basic setup position and have set the pressure in my feet to be on the inside of my ankles, I find it difficult to NOT push off my right foot (which seems natural) but then what initiates the shift back to the left?
May 19, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. It will be slight external rotation of the lead knee and lead hip adduction. In the drill above you will feel more of the adduction. Take a look at Fixing Your Weight Transfer and Preventing Hip Pain.
May 19, 2017
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Greg
Hi There Craig. I have added this drill to my Set up drill and would like to know the next best drill to stack on directly after the weight shift please. Thanks. Greg
April 25, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hell Greg. Once, you have basic setup and movement of weight down. I would venture to the 5 Minutes to Master Rotation.
April 26, 2017
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James
When shifting the weight in this drill, do the hips sway a little or turn a little. I realize they don't move much in this drill, but do they sway a little or turn a little?
April 1, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. More or less a lateral move back and forth. You may add a little lead leg rotation though if you struggle getting into neutral.
April 2, 2017
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JODY
I'm really struggling as to what to focus on when shifting to the left side. I know Chuck addresses it in the video, but what is the first move to start the weight shift to the left? Thanks
March 18, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jody. The lead knee will externally rotate to get stacked over the ankle joint. Followed by lead hip adduction to pull the weight over.
March 18, 2017
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BRIAN
I cant seem to settle in properly on my left side. I always have some tension in my quad, even though I don't feel as if I am out over my toes. Is some / (minimal) tension in the quad normal? I am aware that Chuck states in this video that you shouldn't feel it in your quad. Thanks for the help
March 10, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brian. The quad is still helping with some stability. You don't want it to be the sole muscle for stability and transfer.
March 10, 2017
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Yi
Hi I am new of RST and try to learn the swing as much as possible. When I try this weight shift, what I find out is that it is not difficult at all to try this in my living room without a club, in particular without a club over the shoulder and body in windup position. Once I get to the top of the backswing, it is a different story. My question is: do we need to some drills with a club at the top backswing position to make the weight shift closer to real swing?
February 28, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yi. I wouldn't worry about it for the sequence above. There are much more advanced and detailed videos on the site you will work on in the future to sync the weight from the top.
March 1, 2017
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THOMAS
Question. Does the head also move to the left and then back to the right?
February 27, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Thomas. The head will slightly move due to weight shift.
February 27, 2017
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George
Hi Craig, I read those comments below, I see NjA mentioned. So what is NJA? Yesterday, after reviewing the setup videos and a few reps, I hit two buckets with the new setup; I had a very good hitting sessions based on ball flight and the golf ball imprinted on the club face. Specially, the grip and the balance made a huge difference. And I don't have any pain in my left elbow. I will apply the new setup the next round this weekend. Thanks to you guys. I really like the notice of response from you. I love to hit ball in the range. I wonder with this program, should I continue to my range pass this year? Thanks.
February 15, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello George. NJA - Neutral Joint Alignment - when the joints of the body are neutral. I don't see any issue with continuing your range pass. The goal is to train the body movements and then apply them to a ball. You don't want hit a 1000 balls a day. But, be very precise and efficient with your practice. Take a look at the Practice Makes Perfect Video. Lots of quality practice swing reps and then apply a ball. Rinse a repeat until you have the new movement pattern in place. We really appreciate the compliments of our site.
February 16, 2017
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Dylan
While shifting back to the lead side in this drill is there a slight straightening of the lead leg or should we maintain the same knee flex the whole time as at set up? I know in the golf swing the lead leg straightens a bit when posting up but for the sake of this drill should we just keep the same knee flex ?
January 17, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dylan. This is geared more towards feeling the shift back and forth from trail to lead side. Don't worry about the posting up issue until later in the program.
January 17, 2017
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Richard
Where do you post reps at?
December 22, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. There are printable worksheets under the Swing Review tab - Checkpoint for Practice. Or, under the Drill Only Videos for the 5 Step System there is an online tracker.
December 22, 2016
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Richard
Confused - Video bullets - 2nd bullet says "perfect setup, shift your weight one inch to the right" - in the perfect setup isn't the left side in neutral? if so then shifting 1 inch to the right then 3 inches to the left would put the left side out of neutral?
December 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. The key is the pelvis or lead hip has to completely reach a stacked position at impact. Perfect Setup position is with the feet 2 inches outside NJA. If you shift 1 inch back it will take 3 to reach a perfect impact NJA alignment. Take a look at Face On Impact Alignments Video.
December 15, 2016
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Richard
I understand the concept of stacking and weight shift - what confuses me is the video bullet referring to the perfect setup - the perfect setup is with hip bump/axis tilt as explained in the video "Golf Setup Position | Axis Tilt, Your Secret to the Perfect Setup" yet the use of the perfect setup in the video bullets does not include hip bump/axis tilt - maybe it should be referring to "Normal Stance Width" - your thoughts on the terminology used in the video bullets
December 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Yes, the perfect setup does include axis tilt/hip bump. I'm trying to understand the question. I would be happy to help you further or assist. Using the terminology normal stance width would probably make more sense under these circumstances.
December 16, 2016
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Richard
Craig - my point is simple, video bullet #2, to me, is misleading - it should be "normal stance width" not "perfect setup" - just trying to make your site better - think we've covered this enough - thanks for your interaction - rich
December 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Gotcha. No worries. We always appreciate the feedback.
December 16, 2016
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Scott
I can't seem to find where I can log my practice. I'm just getting started and want to keep track of what I've done. Clearly I can do it here on the site, I just can't seem to find where to log/track it. Great site by the way, this is very exciting for me to be reworking my golf swing after 30 years of the same over the top problem, with lousy recommendations from "experts".
December 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. The practice sheets are under the tab Swing Reviews - Checkpoints for Practice. 'm sensing there is an issue with the Rep Tracker because you aren't the first one to bring this to my attention today. If you do not see one in the next 24hrs. Please contact Customer Support.
December 5, 2016
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Ross
Can I get a definitive explanation of the hip movement when viewed from face on? Start with the feet each two inches outside neutral - then hip bump an inch left to get axis tilt - move two inches right on backswing - move three inches left on downswing to get back to neutral? Except that on the backswing the turning of the hips makes it look from face on that the right leg stays still (which would be three inches inside neutral)?
November 28, 2016
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Chuck
Yes Ross, the right leg should appear that it doesn't really move, but it does a little. Don't get too caught up in the exact numbers, it's more important to load the right leg so you can make a full turn and not have your hips sliding back toward the target during the backswing which is a very weak position.
November 29, 2016
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David
When you shift back into the left side, how do you stop the upper body getting ahead of the ball?
November 14, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Posting up properly and not allowing the shoulders to spin. Take a look at Step 2 - Core Rotation.
November 15, 2016
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Krishna
hi. Can one conclude that one has shifted weight properly from a proper finish position -- i.e no roll or splay in the lead foot through the foreswing in an effort to stabilise that foot?
November 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Krishna. The foot may not tell all the story, but definitely a good start. You would also need to check that you are stacked in NJA. Face On Impact Alignments Video.
November 3, 2016
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Krishna
So at finish, if you are stacked on NJA and your foot isn't splayed/rolled, that is a good enough post swing check of having shifted weight properly? Other than doing a video of one's swing, is there any other ways to check this?
November 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Krishna. It is one component of having a good weight transfer. But, you can have a bad impact and train yourself to finish in the proper position with late push. Camera and mirror are really your best bet at checking for a proper transfer.
November 10, 2016
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Bryan
At 3:50 he talks about how the "inner leg" assists in pulling your weight back to the lead side in neutral alignment. I have been working on this and can feel it. My question is, should I feel those inner muscles (adductors) of my trail leg contract or engage any during to 1 inch movement to the trail side? I know this small movement is achieved easily just by feeling more weight on your trail inner/middle heel, but I am feeling my right adductor contract quite a bit during this movement and didn't know if this meant that I was overdoing inner feet role at setup or something else undesirable.
October 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bryan. You may feel the inner adductors when shifting into the trail side. Albeit should be a fairly light pull. Use the Weight Shift Video Part 2 and How to Swing From the Ground Up to help with the transfer.
October 11, 2016
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Steve
Hi had my first video review. Instructor Steven Maes, he was relatively happy with my set up and should progress to Steps 1 & 2, as my biggest problem was my right shoulder and upper square working quicker than my lower body (Hope my interpretation is correct). Am i correct in thinking the movement right could initiate my takeaway, and the movement right initiate my downswing whilst playing my normal golf (Normalish)?? I really don't want to move from Step 1 until i am happy, but dont wish to stop playing golf. Thanks
October 4, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steve. You really don't want the right side initiating the downswing. Try to add the "How to Swing from the Ground Up Video" for a simple yet similar drill to still play while adding a new change.
October 4, 2016
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Steve
Thanks Craig, this makes sense to my way of learning. The drill is simple and makes sense, i am practising the drill and will begin by incorporating the right heel movement into my game. As soon as i am comfortable i will introduce the left. Thanks again.
October 6, 2016
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Ray
Ray Could you describe the feeling in both the left and right foot during this drill. I understand the right foot should never be on the outside. Should both feet remain in the "flat" true balance position or should the ankles be towed in to place weight on the inside of both feet?
September 21, 2016
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Micah (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Raymond. During the setup you should anchor your feet by centering the weight on the inside of each foot. Try not to do this so much that the knees start to buckle inwards, but just a touch. For this drill your feet should stay flat at leas in the 1 inch back shift. The point of this drill is to feel the weight shifting from 50-50 weight to how much weight you feel moving to the trail leg from the one inch movement to what you feel moving to 3 inches and the weight shifting to the lead foot. Not only noticing how the weight feels in the feet but in the leg muscles support the shift i.e. glutes, hams, and quads
September 21, 2016
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Stephen
Should you have your Bum stick out in the set up position? which creates a slight curvature of the lower back, or do you need to engage your pelvic floor to flatten out the lower back? And should my left hip feel like its been worked out from doing this above drill or am I moving to the left too much?
September 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. Your butt will stick out slightly, but you want to shy away from lordosis (Golf Posture Video). Your lead glute and inner thigh should feel like they are doing the majority of the work. Not too much against the hip socket wall.
September 8, 2016
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Stephen
Thanks Craig, I'll suss it out. Cheers. Also is it wise for me to stay away from hitting golf balls and playing in Club competition while I'm going through this process of changing my swing and neural pathways. As I played club comp on Weds and a match play today, and both games I was all over the place. I felt confused with what to do, nearly like a brain overload. Because I've not yet mastered my take away, backswing and weight shift. I actually thought I had the back swing sorted, but during comp, that all went out the window. The old habits started to kick in, which was very frustrating. Because I cast the club during my down swing, I'm no were near close to creating the new neural pathways for the downswing/weight transfer/hips moving first etc. Should I stay away from club comp for now until I make the required changes. Thanks a lot !
September 8, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. It is hard to make swing changes and play at the same time. Your reasoning is correct. Too many thoughts and too much going on to worry about scoring. Most of the players here make big corrections in the off season to allow the playing season to have more focus on scoring versus swing. I would in the initial limit too much playing time until some of the patterns from practice really become second nature.
September 9, 2016
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Stephen
Thanks Craig, I'll be sending through my next swing analysis tomorrow. Hopefully you'll see some improvements. I'll limit my club comp time. The problem is winter here in Australia is not bad so you can play all year around. Will look forward to my next review
September 10, 2016
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Miguel
Hi guys, when doing this drill I feel pressure (like a stretching) on my left hip when shifting the weight back to the left leg. Am I going to far or it's simply my muscle activating? Thanks.
September 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Miguel. You might be going too far. Check the Preventing Hip Pain Video.
September 7, 2016
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Daniel
Hey guys, When we are shifting back left, Chuck speaks of 'pulling' to the left or with the left side. I have forever pushed with the right so finding this a challenge. I feel i get left in two ways. 1st is to move the left knee left. I do this by pushing my left foot left or counterclockwise. So I feel like I'm pulling with my left knee to the target. Or 2nd, I recall seeing a clip/drill on here, where to obtain the feeling, you step your left foot further left and slide it back to setup. When i do this method i feel like I'm 'pulling' my left leg away from the target, (like the drill i just spoke of) Both feel very different and appear to get me left. What specifically am i activating to get things going left? Thanks, Daniel
June 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Daniel. Take a look at the Fixing Your Weight Transfer Video and the Preventing Hip Pain Video. The goal is to externally rotate the lead knee properly and then pull with the inner lead thigh adductors (Lead Hip Adduction or Internal Femur Rotation).
June 29, 2016
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Jimmy
I'm confused ...please help me understand . This video suggests a 1" lateral move to trail side but another video weight shift #2 I believe shows turn without a lateral movement and shows instructor holding a club against trail leg to show it shouldn't be outside club ... Make sense to my confusion ? Please help as I want t do these drills correctly. They are excellent videos and excited to begin them in due time
March 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jimmy. There is a lateral move. The hip turn you describe in the Weight Part 2 Video is what keeps the hip from sliding outside the trail leg. The weight moves laterally and the hip rotates while loading the glute. It will feel a little lateral and back.
March 15, 2016
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Jimmy
Thanks for quick reply..Ok so it's a 1" lateral move to trail leg then immediate hip turn sequence ....or both moves happen simultaneously
March 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jimmy. Think of it as a lateral move to the trail leg and as you start pulling pulling the trail shoulder blade back. The pull will help turn the hip for you. Not immediate, but think of a blend of as you shift into a rotation.
March 15, 2016
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Dave
Hi Craig. I have been sent this video in my last swing review to stop my right leg straightening at the top of the backswing. I have done hundreds of reps and can move my weight consistently now as per the video. I have been deliberately not hitting balls so as to engrain the movements, now have introduced a club and the flex is there with practice swings at the top. However, I am having real trouble transferring the feeling to a proper golf swing. Any tips/videos for how to get this feeling into the full swing? thanks Dave
February 23, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Take a look at the Perfect Practice Video for some tips on practicing. You need to practice at pace. If you can do it in the practice swing. Start by slowly hitting balls. Hit them around 30-40% power. Focus on the form. Not the ball striking and max yardage just yet. Also, add the Right Knee Laser to help with knee flexion.
February 23, 2016
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Gavin
When you shift left should the left knee and leg be fully straight?
February 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gavin. The lead knee/leg will not be fully straight as you shift into the lead side. Take a look at the Perfecting Lower Body Stability Video.
February 7, 2016
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Jack
How do you coordinate the initial weight shift back to the right side with the takeaway? where do you like to see the hands or where are you in the takeaway once you feel your right heel /glut activates?
January 20, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jack. You can either trigger the start of the swing with a slight weight shift, or blend the motion together (Pull back with the trail shoulder as you sit into the trail glute.) The full shift into the glute in a blended swing will not happen until the takeaway is complete. If using a blended motion you probably won't feel a whole bunch of engagement in the glute until the hands are in front of the trail thigh.
January 20, 2016
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Loran
Is sitting into the squat and withholding the turning of the left hip create a more air space tight to create a correct downswing plane?
January 1, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. Yes, not racing the body with spin and withholding some of the early excess rotation will allow for a little more room.
January 2, 2016
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Braden
Hello. I thought that when you shift back to the left there was supposed to be some downward movement. In this drill it looks like chuck is just moving laterally back to the left
December 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Braden. There will be some downward movement as you start into your squat and engage the glutes more. However, this video is mainly focusing on weight shift between the trail and lead side. You need to feel the lateral movement and the shifting of the weight first. Then, master more of a squat or sit into the lead side for leverage.
December 10, 2015
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Glen
When you do the weight shift back to the trail side how do you keep from losing your axis tilt? It looks like Chuck's hips move back to neutral.
November 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Glen. Take a look at the Weight Shift Video Part 2. The hips don't slide back to neutral causing a loss of tilt when you load the trail glute. The whole body will shift.
November 12, 2015
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Greg
Hi Craig, I have started with the weight shift drill this morning. My practice routine is four practice swings followed by a swing with the ball in the way. With a ball around 4" outside the swing path, As the diameter of the ball is 1 6/8 " I set the club just ahead of center off the ball on the practice swing. Then I make an initial move of hopefully around 1" - the leading edge of the club is level with the back of the ball and then commence my rotation. This MIGHT help other RTS members - IF you think not then happy for you to respond to me and we can delete the stream. Thanks, Greg
November 1, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. Just to make sure if have it correct. You are completing four practice reps and slowly creeping into the ball letting it get in the way on the 5th? Or, reaching further out to hit it?
November 2, 2015
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Greg
Hi Craig, The first four swings are without a ball in place. The ball is used in these swings is around 4" outside the swing plane. On the 5th swing I move the ball into the swing path ~ No reaching out to hit it. Thanks, Greg
November 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Gotcha. That sounds feasible to me. Just making sure you didn't reach to hit it.
November 3, 2015
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Joseph
What is the minimum age you recommend a prospective student with little golf experience be before utIlizing the site on a daily or regular basis?
October 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. You can start at any age, but you don't want to hinder a younger player developing some hand eye coordination and feel. There is a lot of information on the site and can be confusing. You can always work on the basics. Setup, weight transfer and rotation.
October 26, 2015
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Monty
At what point in the backswing should the weight transfer to the back leg be complete? For example, the 80% of your weight should be shifted by the time the club reaches parallel to the ground on your takeaway.
October 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Monty. Yes, the majority of weight shift will take place in the takeaway and your example is correct.
October 9, 2015
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Nguyen
Hi I assume that the hip bump upon setup should shift the hip less than 1 inch, otherwise during takeaway with 1 inch shift to the right, there will be no axis tilt, is that correct?
September 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nguyen. The whole body shifts into the trail glute. You don't want to slide the hip or just bump it back. You will retain the tilt when moving the weight. Take a look at the Weight Shift Video Part 2.
September 22, 2015
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Nguyen
Thank Craig, and do we bump the hip or shift the whole body when we shift left?
September 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nguyen. The whole body needs to shift. However, make sure that the sequence starts from the ground up.
September 22, 2015
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Gaetano
Hi, so it's a shift( sway) to right neutral alignment. If u incorporate this in a full back swing, so u shift to right neutral alignment then do your turn? Then the downswing, we should shift 2 inches to left neutral alignment then turn hips? Thanks
August 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gaetano. You can trigger your swing to start with a shift into the trail side or you can blend it with your rotation in the takeaway. You will rotate and shift into the trail glute. The pull from the trail shoulder will open the hips going back. Coming down the first move will be to shift the weight and then the lead oblique will start to pull the hips.
August 21, 2015
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Terry
In this drill, does the head stay still? In doing the shift right then left, it doesn't seem physically possible to keep the head in the same place. Chuck's head moves in the drill which would then also move when he would translate to the full swing. Is this right?
August 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. The head moves slightly in the golf swing. The head is connected to the body. You don't have a choice when trying to load the glutes correctly. A slight movement is nothing to worry about. The head staying overly still could cause more problems.
August 18, 2015
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Luigi
Ciao Craig - This means, that it's not a sequence between setup and backswing in the golfswing. Correct?
June 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Luigi. It is a sequence between setup and backswing. I was just eluding to the fact the the shift back to the lead side is showing you the picture into impact. I miss understood your original question. You will take you setup and during the takeaway or as a trigger to take the club back. You will shift into the trail glute as described in the video.
June 26, 2015
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Luigi
Is this wight shift procedur a part of the setup prior to the backswing or is it in order to create a picture for the downswing?
June 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Luigi. To help create the overall picture of shifting from the trail side into the lead side for the downswing.
June 22, 2015
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Louis
Okay think I got it I pull from the left side into the heel of my left foot using glut and guad with left lat this is what I feel
June 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Louis. I answered below.
June 21, 2015
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Louis
Again you probably get a lot of questions is it the gluteus that pull the weight over to the left. Suggestion on your video show the muscles firing when you shift your weight. This would help us biomechanics challenged person greatly. I had so many crappy tips and lessons I need specific instructions to really understand what muscles are doing what so I can get a feel for the whole swing any feedback is greatly appreciated. I'm 62 and like to play as long as possible
June 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Louis. The lead leg will externally rotate to stack over the ankle joint, lead hip abduction will pull the weight over, and then you will plant into the lead heel and glute. Take a look at the "stomp drill" in the How the Lower Body Works Video in the Downswing Section to learn how to feel the glute.
June 21, 2015
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Sanjay
Just Beautiful Video, I love this one since this drill has the best value and outcome. I love science and I like how you combining each golf muscles's action drill to improve swing mechanics. One suggestion is the same drill if you combine with release drill or per say mix in or chime in drill. You can say you can have two things going in the one drill--------weight shift and release. If you hand in a heavy heavy heavy club with 3 to 9 in left hand or right hand with weight shift drill.
June 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sanjay. Thanks for the post and compliments. Appreciate the suggestion that our members might enjoy.
June 13, 2015
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Taweesak
Sorry, let me correct my typo at the previous question. When we shift left or Right, should the head move along or stay still ?
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Taweesak. I responded below.
May 21, 2015
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Taweesak
Thanks
May 21, 2015
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Taweesak
Hi, when we shift left or Right, should move along or stay still ?
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Taweesak. The head will move in the golf swing. Albeit very little. The key is to shift properly and not push. Take a look at the Weight Shift Video Part 2 in the Weight Transfer Section. It will help you maintain your hip line and not sway.
May 21, 2015
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Keith
Hello. New to program and this is my first question. When shifting weight to the left side should the left leg straigjten, almost locking out the knee. Seems when I swing the only way for me to create that perfect reverse C shape is to almost hyperextended my left leg and get my hip intentionally out. Almost like one of those yoga side stretches to the right side. Thanks.
April 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Keith. (Right-Handed Player). The left leg doesn't straighten until impact while pulling leverage out of the ground. Take a look at Sitting Into the Left Side in the Downswing Section to help with your shift. And, Straight Left Knee in the Downswing Advanced Section to understand when the knee does straighten.
April 16, 2015
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Keith
Awesome. Thanks!
April 16, 2015
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Ryan
I've seen a few pros (ex. Jordan Spieth) who roll their left ankle after impact. What are the pros/cons of this?
April 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ryan. When you roll to the outside of the lead ankle. You have the tendency to slide beyond NJA and put undo stress on the ankle joints. The post up move will be affected and can lead to ankle issues.
April 16, 2015
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Nguyen
Hi In the setup, when we bump our hip to the left, do we need to keep our hip parallel to the ground?, as the shoulder should tilt. Regards
April 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nguyen. The hips will remain level to the ground.
April 10, 2015
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Nguyen
Dear Craig, in that case should the lead leg be less flex than the trail leg, or both legs have the same degree of flex?
April 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nguyen. The legs will change to the slightest degree. It will be closer to not changing, than a lot of change. It shouldn't be massively noticeable.
April 13, 2015
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Louis
Does the right internal oblique engage as a result of the hip bump....
June 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
You might be a little more aware of the trail side oblique. But, no major engagement should come out of hip bump/tilt.
June 7, 2015
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JOHN
Is the feeling basically sitting into your right glute
April 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. Yes, you want to feel the sit into the trial glute.
April 5, 2015
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Ryan
Hey there, Is there a list form of the drills for the takeaway to start? I thought I saw it somewhere but now I can't find it. Thank you. Also a lit of drills for the other movements would be great. Best, Ryan
March 26, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Ryan, if you are talking about the printable worksheets here you go for the takeaway: http://www.rotaryswing.com/golf-instruction.old/video/tracking-sheets/RST-Takeaway.pdf Otherwise, for the takeaway i would recommend 5 minutes to perfect backswing and the bucket drill.
March 26, 2015
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Ryan
That's what I was talking about. Thanks!
March 26, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
anytime. glad I could help
March 26, 2015
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Marco
To my understanding When you move an inch to the right, and you start your takeaway with the right shoulder blade. Do you internally rotate the right leg to keep it in line. If so dosent this move your head out of line with the golf ball?
March 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marco. The head will move in the backswing. Approximately 1 inch because of your 1 inch load into the trail glute. Don't try and force internal rotation of the trail leg. Focus on just keeping the shift more on the inside of the foot versus letting it rock to the outside.
March 20, 2015
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richard
The weight shift in the downswing happens behind you ( like Stenson) not in front, correct?
March 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. in the downswing, the weight will be pulled by lead hip abduction and start settling into the lead glute. Keep the weight back and less in front.
March 11, 2015
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richard
When does the weight shift in the backswing start?
March 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. The majority of the weight will transfer during the takeaway. You can blend the weight shift in with rotation. Or, some of our players use the beginning of the weight shift as a trigger to start their swing.
March 11, 2015
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Mark
Can’t say enough how great this website is. A question on this video. I started recently on the site…..So thus far I have been working on the setup and am now going to add in this weight shift drill. When I do the setup, the weight is nicely over the ankles. I know from seeing some of the other videos that the weight will move progressively to the right heel as it loads on the backswing…and I have also seen the drill where it talks about stomping on the left heel at the start of the downswing. However for purposes of this video (the 5 minute weight shift drill)…am I correct in assuming that the weight really stays mainly over the ankles and not yet much over the heels at this early stage? Thus, nice setup with weight centred over the ankles…small shift to the right..weight moves right and mainly over the ankle…then left, mainly over the ankle?
March 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. In this drill, you should still feel that you are pushing the trail heel into the ground. However, it will be more apparent when you start coiling more to the top of the swing with the added hip rotation.
March 11, 2015
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Mark
Thanks. so for the forward part of the drill, I assume the feeling is also a planting of the (left) heel? Is it (as in the case of the backswing part of this drill) more subtle than if I were doing a fuller swing? Or should it feel quite solid on the left heel?
March 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Mark. For the shift left you will have the feeling of pushing the left heel into the ground. Left hip abduction and the pull of the weight will really keep it sitting back in the glutes.
March 13, 2015
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Brian
During the weight shift drill back to the left side I found that my shoulders turned. Should they turn or be square when I shift back to left.
March 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brian. They will turn ever so slightly in this drill.
March 9, 2015
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Alejandro
I'm having doubts with my weight shift action and I want to make sure I practice it right. I watched this video a few times but only now I noticed that I'm supposed to "pull to the left" with only "the left leg". That's a completely different feel but I feel more stable. It feels that, using the left thigh I pull the left knee "to the right" at the start of the downswing and everything starts moving to the right. A moment later the left knee moves to the left because of the momentum of the body coming through, but not because I'm thinking in moving the left knee to the left. Am I understanding this correctly ??
February 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alejandro. Thats what it will feel like. Actually, the sequence of shifting the weight on the downswing will be externally rotating the left knee directly over the left ankle and pulling the weight over to the left with left hip abduction.
February 21, 2015
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Alejandro
Ok, but to make the left knee turn at the start of the downswing I feel like I need to push with my right leg. I feel that the weight shift and the left knee initial turn should happen at about the same time. Then, once the weight is on the left, left hip abduction feels correct! So, is it ok to start the weight shift pushing a little with the right leg ?
February 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alejandro. They will roughly happen at the same time. However, there isn't a need to push off of the right leg unless you don't use the hips enough in your golf swing. Try this: stand straight up with the feet 2 inches outside NJA (golf stance width). If you start with the weight balanced 50/50 and increase the weight to 80/20 on the left leg. Did you have to push of the right leg to increase the weight on the left? Probably more of a rocking/pulling into the left leg.
February 22, 2015
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Alejandro
Right. This is a good example. So, if I'm 50/50 I could pull from the left. No problem. But if I'm 70% on the right I need a tiny push from the right to go 50/50 and then left pull can take over from there. That's what I'm saying. Maybe I'm overthinking it ?
February 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alejandro. I would rather the left side perform all the work to shift the weight back. However, without knowing you swing to well. Understand when you would want to add push if you had too. Take a look at How to Use the Hips in the Advanced Downswing Section. You could be overthinking a little too.
February 23, 2015
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Alejandro
Excellent!! Thanks for your patience, Craig. Will ley you know how it goes!
February 23, 2015
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Terry
When shifting to the right, what is the timing sequence - IE, shift into R heel then backswing? Or shift during the backswing? I've tried it during the backswing and it seems to be much harder to get in position at the top. thx
February 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. If you struggle with timing the shift. You can use your weight shift into the trail glute as the trigger to start the swing.
February 19, 2015
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phil
5 minute golf setup with weight shift was really an eye opener hopefully when I have completed about 10,000 reps I wont have to think about it anymore. Absolutely love the drills they are so helpful and beats wasting time banging balls without a clue what im doing
February 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Phil. Im glad you are enjoying the program. Get that solid setup!
February 15, 2015
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Anthony
I'm having a problem with timing. Is timing all about weight shift and if I work on my weight shift is that the key to good timing and tempo.
January 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Timing has a multitude of factors. However, if you can get the weight transferring properly and good lead arm control you will be ahead of the curve. Use the RST Tempo Drill and the RE-Shaping Your Swing for Lag Video in the Introduction Section. Get better with your shift and shape of the downswing.
January 13, 2015
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Anthony
Thanks Craig, one clarification, what is the difference between tempo, timing and rhythm or do they all mean the same thing when it comes to the golf swing.
January 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. They all sorta blend together. Your rhythm and tempo affect your timing. If your timing is off your rhythm and tempo tend to follow suit. Look at rhythm and tempo as the overall speed, glue, and movement of the swing. Does it have nice pace, efficient, and sequential? Timing is putting the pieces together and having a good consistent release into the strike.
January 14, 2015
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Rosie
What should the left and right knees be doing during this exercise? That is, should the right knee maintain its full flex when shifting to the right side (right handed swing) or should it straighten just slightly to assist the slight hip backwards hip rotation while I shift my hip right that one inch (maintaining the appearance of the hip not breaking the line)? Should we maintain the left knee flex when shifting the weight forward onto the left leg or should we allow it to straighten as it will when we take a full swing?
January 2, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Rosie, In this drill, it's all about using the correct muscles to move the hips laterally. The rotation should be added on top after you perfect the weight shift so, you want to keep your knee flex in both knees and not allow either knee to rotate or to get closer or further from the other knee. R.J.
January 4, 2015
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William
I am beginning to work on my downswing and understand that the weight shift to the left is very important. I'm am therefore reviewing the weight shift videos. Some videos talk about shifting weight to left whilst others talk about sitting on the left side to begin the downswing. Please let let me know how you want me to begin the downswing - shit to left or seat on left side?.
December 27, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
William, In order to sit into your left side, you have to shift left. Otherwise you'd be sitting into your middle. So, if you're feeling the weight in your left glute when you're sitting into your left side, then you have shifted your weight left. Let us know if you need any more clarification or have any more questions Happy Holidays! =) R.J.
December 27, 2014
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Anthony
When I shift my weight back to the left my upper body and head move foward. Is this caused by pushing from the right side or too flat of a backswing?
December 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Do you mean the head moves forward towards the ball or towards the target?
December 20, 2014
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Anthony
Towards the target
December 23, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. The head will move a little toward the target. Not a whole bunch. But, a slight movement is ok. The head is connected to the body. When you shift the weight it has to move a little with it. Now, if it is excessively moving forward and past the ball. Pushing would be more the culprit. Work on the Sitting Into the Left Side Video in the Downswing Section to help.
December 23, 2014
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Andrew
Hi, What would be my problem if after I shift my weight to the left (right-handed) that I end up on the outer edge of my feet? My right feet sometimes ends up too rotated. I have bowed legs if that matters. My problem is with the long iron (4 iron) and I worked on it for most of the time at the range today. I do have a weight shift problem, but was wondering if I need to do anything different because the shape of my legs are different from most of the public. Thanks, Andrew.
December 11, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Andrew, Based on what you're telling us, it sounds like you are subconsciously pushing off the trail side leg to get back to the lead side. Make sure that you're pulling your way back to the front leg using the hips, glute and groin from the lead side. That should help. Good luck! R.J.
December 11, 2014
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Andrew
R.J., Ok, I will continue to work on it. Thanks, Andrew
December 11, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Andrew, You're welcome. Also make sure that you are rotating your lead hip back behind you instead of pivoting on the lead leg and allowing your trailing hip to swing out towards the ball like a Saloon door in an old western. Essentially, check to make sure your are maintaining your tush line all the way through the swing. R.J.
December 12, 2014
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Andrew
R.J., Thanks. I was at the range last night when I received this message. I worked on rotating my lead hips back as my RST instructor pointed that out. I also noticed that a lot of the time with the longer clubs that I lean forward on the downswing. I was correcting it by loading up my lead glutes and that seem to give me much better results. Can't figure out why that is the case with my long irons. Thanks you and RST for this program. Andrew
December 12, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Andrew, First of all, I'm glad that you're getting results and you're welcome for the insight. Secondly, I would imagine that you were swinging harder from the shoulders with the longer clubs with the expectation of hitting them further instead of just allowing your swing and the club do the work for you. Or, you could have been reaching out to the ball because you don't hit the longer irons as often and you still don't fully trust your swing enough yet that the club will return to the ball with the longer irons. R.J.
December 13, 2014
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js
hi~ i'm troubled with takeaway... in my case... club head goes outside when i take club back... i have no idea what is wrong... many people have issues with inside takeaway but my problem is opposite.. is it okay if i shift my weight to the right before body rotation?
November 5, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
JS, Yes, you should push your weight into your heel before you start your rotation. Are you sure that you're outside with your takeaway? Many people feel like they're outside with their takeaway, when in all reality, they're perfect or even still a little bit inside. Are you drawing a shaft line for your plane or an elbow plane line? Because if you're drawing a shaft plane line and you do the RST takeaway perfectly, you'll end up being outside of the shaft plane. For the RST lessons, you want to be using an elbow plane line. R.J.
November 6, 2014
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js
i'm 100% sure. i drawing shaft and elbow plane line... it s definite outside... club face shut... i fell that my hands move more faster than club head when i take club back.. even i exaggerate to take club back inside.. i can not do that.
November 6, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
JS, Then it sounds like you're just getting a little bit too much elevation off the bat in your takeaway. Do everything you're doing when you're getting your hands outside the ELBOW plane line and just try to not elevate your arms so much. Keep the club head relatively close to the ground for the first 6 - 8 inches of the takeaway. That should get you squared up. If your club face is closed at the end of the takeaway, make sure that your right elbow pit is pointing towards the sky, as well as your thumbnails on your hands. This will rotate your forearms so that the club face is perpendicular to the ground. Please let us know if you have any more issues. R.J.
November 6, 2014
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js
absolutely!!! thanks for ur answer!!!
November 6, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
You're welcome, J.S. R.J.
November 6, 2014
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Christopher
I just wanted to say that I have started playing golf a 3 months ago and have been doing this rotary swing and studying religiously to the point my wife says I'm obsessed! Ha. Well for the most part I had everything down as far as form but always skipped over the weight shift part. I looked like I was digging for gold everyday and making my divot inches behind the ball. We'll I finally went back and watched the weight shift three days ago and started working! Today I went to the range and hit 5 buckets of balls and did so good that I actually had a notebook recording yardages because my consistency has gotten that good! I am actually reading yardages picking a club and hitting greens 3 out of 4 times at least from 150yards and closer. Hitting my 54 100yards/ 7 iron at 160/ hybrid 200-210/ driver 275 consistently! More than once hitting OVER 315!I just want to reiterate that this is so important! This along with lag in your swing! Thank y'all so much I never thought I could play like this! I played three holes after I got done hitting at the range and was -1 after the three holes(1 par 5/1 par 4/ 1 par 3)! (It got to dark to see the ball so I had to quit for the day!)This instruction system is so great and can't wait to get better! Again thank y'all so much!
November 3, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Christopher, Congrats on your success. Keep working to ingrain the fundamentals into your brain! We will always be here to assist you in your journey. R.J.
November 3, 2014
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Christopher
Of course I still need work but I can't wait until my next video review so my coach can get me on my next thing to do but my last three days have been night and day! Had no idea I could EVER ask this! Now like u said muscle memory training!
November 3, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Christopher, Our instructors offer unlimited video reviews so that you don't have to wait for your next review. The pricing is extremely reasonable considering the service that you would get from someone dedicated to helping you create the perfect golf swing. You can seek unlimited reviews in the swing review section. R.J.
November 3, 2014
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Matthew
This weight shift drill was the main piece of homework I got after my initial swing video submission. So I'm working my way to 1000 reps. In the meantime, should I hit balls or can I play a round with my buddies? Or should I work my way through the drills until they involve hitting balls? I don't want to practice my bad habits anymore, ya know? Also, is there another place for me to send questions about my specific program? Thanks!
October 18, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Matthew, You can still play but don't get discouraged if the results aren't there. You have been playing a certain way for so long that another round or two won't change much. Just be diligent in working on your drills and don't give up if you don't see immediate results. I know that when I was working through the program, I got A LOT worse before I started to get better and now I am significantly better than I was before. Being able to hit the ball left, right or straight whenever I want to is nice. Good luck to you, R.J.
October 18, 2014
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Matthew
Cool, thanks R.J.
October 18, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
You're welcome, Matthew. Also, if you haven't already, check the "how the brain learns" video in the introduction section. This will let you know what is needed to ingrain new movements and to overtake bad habits. You'll start to see what I mean, reps wise, why it isn't going to hinder your new development to continue to play, the only thing that will be hindered is your playing ability because you'll have a mix of new mechanics and bad habits. Just try not to over think your new mechanics too much when you're playing because that will cause you to likely get frustrated with them. Also check out the trust your swing and pre-shot routine videos. I would also suggest getting in at least 1,000 reps of a new movement before you go out and play a round. That will make it so you don't have to think about that new movement in order to incorporate it during your round. R.J.
October 18, 2014
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Muhammed
Hi - in the weight shift part 3 video you demonstrate that the weight should be shifted to the left heel and then rotate. I am confused with this video. It appears that the weight shift should be done differently, almost sliding your hips. Please clarify.
October 16, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Muhammed, Slide your hips would infer that you're pushing them from the opposite side. The hips are pulled into that position to shift the weight by the muscles on that side of the hip. The left hip aductors, the muscles on the inner left thigh and the left oblique all help the hips claw their way back over NJA on the left side in the downswing. You definitely want to feel the weight pushing into your heel, but it's accomplished by pulling the hips back over the ankle joint by the muscles surrounding the left hip. If you actively try to push your left heel into the ground you're actually inadvertently pulling the hips with the muscles around it by trying to push the left heel into the ground. Hopefully that clarifies things for you, R.J.
October 16, 2014
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Martin
is the shift to the left is the hardest move in the swing?
October 2, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Depends on who you ask. For hip spinners, the shift the left is very hard. But, not very complicated. Imagine standing straight up and down. 50 - 50 weight balance. If you just started to rock/settle into the left heel putting the majority of your weight on the left leg, while keeping right foot on the ground. You shifted your weight. Simple as that. Now, you have to bend over and put it in motion.
October 3, 2014
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Jack
How does this 1" move relate to the takeaway? Shift 1" and then begin oblique takeaway?
September 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jack. Yes, you can use the 1 inch weight shift as your trigger to start the takeaway. As you start pulling from the shoulder blade and oblique.
September 12, 2014
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Stephen
Does the left leg straighten when you shift your weight to the left while doing this drill?
August 22, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
When doing this drill just focus on the weight transfer with the glute. The leg straightening will be an added benefit for speed when coming into impact. Focus first on the weight, then learn how to straighten.
August 22, 2014
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Stephen
thanks, I feel quite a bit of pressure on my knees when i try to roll my ankles in. how do i get the pressure to my glutes?
August 22, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. You need to make sure the weight is centered over the ankle joints. Take a look at the Finding the True Balance Video in the Setup Section. Once the weight is there adding a little knee bend should help you feel the glutes. Too much knee bend leads to the quad usage and knee pressure.
August 23, 2014
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Jack
I have always struggled with weight transfer. Recently I have been working on "sitting into my left side". Today I tried the 1 inch --- 3 inch shift.. Wow! Amazing how little movement is actually required. The 3 inch shift back to the left also causes you to decelerate at NJA so that club releases easily. Thanks.
August 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jack! Simple is good. Keep getting your swing nice and efficient!
August 1, 2014
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David
Chucks feet are a foot apart i set mine that way and i can feel my left heel plant and push dowm if i widen my stance, i really dont feel it anymore any idea?
July 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Stance is determined by body size. Chucks feet might be narrower than yours because he has a shorter distance between hip joints. Use the How to Ingrain Proper Foot Position Video in the Advanced Setup Section to nail it down.
July 30, 2014
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Evan
When Chuck talks about moving back to the left what is the motion you need to feel? I know he talks about the left leg pulling you into neutral joint alignment, but what should I feel like I am doing? Is it the sit down move and pushing your left heel into the ground. I feel like I really struggle with not pushing off the right foot.
July 23, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
You are pulling yourself over with external rotation of the left leg, left hip abduction, and pressing the weight firmly into the heel. Try not to over complicate it too much. Take a look at the Weight Shift Drill in the Weight Shift Advanced Section. Practice exaggerated transfer then back down from there to get the feeling.
July 23, 2014
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STEVEN
I have been struggling with the proper loading and right knee bend in the backswing. I can see on video and can even feel that most of my weight gets directly over my right foot and when I try to load on the right heel I can feel my weight stay over the middle of my foot. This causes my hips to want to start rotating behind me instead of staying on the line outside my right foot. I don't reverse pivot but I over swing and get the club horizontal even with short wedges. The only way I can feel my weight stay on the inside of right foot especially is if I sort of make my knees bend in word (knees toward each other) this then will restrict my backswing. I thought that you really don't need any weight shift since your arms have weight and just by rotating the arms over the right side which is the weight shift. So basically do you have anything to help me understand where exactly the weight should be and how to immobilize my right hip a bit? I have watched all the videos and am working on getting my weight to the left. When my hips get behind me by the time I rotate them my hips are almost square and my weight is more centered then on my left side and my hips opening. Thanks guys.
May 28, 2014
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james (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Steve, You want to make sure the feet are slightly rolled in at address to stabilize the hips during the backswing.. When you go to shift your weight focus on pulling your weight over using the muscles in your right leg and pull yourself onto your right heel and push that right heel into the ground. You will feel majority of your weight there and this will help you activate the right glute which is crucial for stability and power.
June 26, 2014
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Anthony
I've really been working on this to get a thought and feel that works for me. My question is this: Is the thought/feeling of flexing my right glute/hamstring to pull my weight that way, and then consciously flexing my left glute/hamstring to pull it to the left a viable way of doing this? I have been a big swayer off the ball in the past and don't want to get that going again.
May 26, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Anthony, to load the right side and get the glute to fire you need to just shift the hips around an inch or so to where you feel about 80% of the weight in the right heel/ankle. Feel as though you are pushing the heel or ankle into the ground in order to really feel the glute light up. The shift back to the left is best shown and described in the weight shift 3 video in the program section
May 27, 2014
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Colin
This isn't quite clear to me. If I've axis tilted and then try and shift to the right I untilt. This video shows an untilted axis and makes the move to put weight on the right side easy but it's not so easy with a setup that includes an axis tilt. What do you suggest?
April 29, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Axis tilt still counterbalances the weight at address as the spine tilts away from the target. There should be little variation in the feet either way after the axis tilt making it easier to get the correct feel of proper weight shift
April 30, 2014
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Colin
Doesn't the sine tilt towards the target?
April 30, 2014
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Colin
scrub that - it doesn't!!
April 30, 2014
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Paul
In the setup section Quinton says that there is a small hip bump to the left to allow the right hand to get down to position. In this video a small hip bump to the right is required . It seems that this puts you back where you started which is still left of neutral allignment of the right hip. Does this mean the hip bump to the right has to be more than 1"
April 28, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The hip bump to the left is critical for axis tilt and puts the spine just inside the left knee along with puts the head in behind the golf ball. Its just a slight bump. When you add axis tilt with the bump left, you are also tilting the spine away (lowering right shoulder) which will evenly distribute the weight. The shift to the right is still going to remain a one inch shift to load up the right side. When this lateral shift happens, you are actually losing just a fraction of the tilt as just an FYI.
April 28, 2014
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glen
For someone just getting used to proper weight shift (doing the drill at present). Is it ok to pre-load the one inch right at address (before takeaway) during a round while the trainer wheels are still on to get the feel of loading and release? I'm working on correct rotation too and having a static weight shift gives me a better chance of good shots when playing a round as this gets worked in. Thanks Glen
May 2, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Glen that is perfectly fine for sure. Just make sure that you dont pre-set it over there too soon as the muscles will try and fatigue and fire you off that leg.
May 2, 2014
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patrick14
I do not get any of the pro videos Where do I go
April 27, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
You should be able to click the "tour pros" tab at the top and then use the drop down tab in the middle of the video players to select the pro your are looking for. The videos on that pro should populate. Let me know if that doesn't work for you.
April 28, 2014
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Greg
Is the 1 inch lateral shift to the right and the 3 inch shift back to the left demonstrated here the total lateral movement in the hips from backswing to contact?
April 16, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes that is correct!
April 16, 2014
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Colin
When you do your weight shift to the backswing, will your head move back 1 inch along with your hips? Or should we try to eliminate all horizontal movement of the head during the weight shift?
April 7, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Colin, the head can move be free to move an inch or so during the shift and backswing. If you were to try and hold it dead still, you run the risk of creating a reverse pivot as you work to the top
April 8, 2014

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