Driver Setup Adjustments

Sorry, you need to be a member to access this video.
You Are Just Seconds Away - Become a member here!
Already a member? Log in now

How to set up for the driver is something that I get asked all the time. All the golf magazines and pundits on TV talking about how you should tee it high and set up with the ball way forward in your stance, so it must be correct, right? Well, sort of...Find out how to make the necessary setup adjustments for the driver with the Rotary Swing Tour.

  • As a rule, use the same swing with every club in the bag
  • There are some adjustments that will provide extra distance with the driver
  • Move the ball about 6" up, so you catch it on the upswing
  • The new ball position will cause pull - close your stance slightly to compensate
  • Use the adjusted shot for special situations but continue to practice the standard swing with the driver for consistent release position


Golf Driver Setup

How to setup for the driver with RotarySwing Tour. If you're looking for maximum distance off the tee, your setup with the driver is key. There are a few critical pieces of the setup that you'll want to understand that Chuck Quinton covers in this video to teach you how to start bombing your drives past your buddies!

                A lot of golfers ask, should the golf swing be the same for every club in the bag? Absolutely. You don't want 12 different golf swings. But, at the same point, the driver, especially over the last 10 years, has changed dramatically in its design. Now that we have launch monitors available very easily you can see how setting up and using the equipment the way it's designed now can get you a lot more distance if you use it correctly, but at the same point, there are adjustments to your golf swing that have to be made.

                What you're going to find is that if you swing exactly the same with every club in the bag, the whole point of that is to be able to get your golf club release point and the swing to feel exactly the same. You won't be optimizing the driver to hit it as far as you possibly can. Is that necessarily a bad thing? If you look at the Tour average, they hit down about 1.3 degrees. SO they have a negative angle of attack of over a degree. Of course, we all know that if you want to hit the ball as far as you can, you want to catch the ball on an upswing slightly. Depending on your swing speed, that's all going to vary a little bit. But typically a few degrees is enough to get you quite a bit more yardage and get the ball to fly a little bit further and carry a little bit more distance overall.

                So why do the Tour pros hit down on it when they know that they can hit it further? The reason is the same thing that I've been teaching you to get your release point in the same point every time for consistency. They have enough speed to give up a little distance for the sake of accuracy and consistency. I do the same thing. My negative angle attack is almost exactly the same, about 1.4 degrees. So I hit down on the ball a little bit, and I hit the ball a little bit lower and it costs me some yardage. But my release point feels the same with pretty much every club in the bag.

                Now, there are times, though, where I want to hit the ball a little bit further. I need to get it to carry that extra yardage to carry a bunker or a hazard, and land softer and fly a little bit higher, or take advantage of some wind to get to a long par-5, et cetera. And those are times when I won't hit down on the ball as much. So my swing, I will make adjustments. That's what I want to show you here.

Golf Driving Tips - Ball Position

                So, I've got a yellow ball here that's going to show where I would have the ball and how I would set up normally on a normal stock golf shot. This is where I'm going to hit down on the ball a little bit. So ball's going to be basically in the exact same spot it always is, just a hair forward, just so I can take some negative angle of attack out. Because with my irons I'm about five or six degrees down. So the angle of the shaft or the line helps a little bit but to give us a little bit more I'll move it just a hair forward, we're talking half a ball width, for a stock shot. But it's not enough to make a dramatic difference. That's going to be my normal set up and I've got this shaft here so you can see it, because I'm going to show you how I adjust my alignment a little bit to make this work.

                As I come into impact with his yellow ball, my face should be squared up. Now this white ball up here is about six inches in front of this one and the reason for that is, in a second I'm going to show you how I would adjust to hit the ball higher. But by the time I release here, the club face would be slightly shut in relationship to my yellow line here, my alignment line. So if I didn't hit the yellow ball and I hit the white one instead, the ball would go left of my target line. It'd be a big pull because the club is working on an arc and it's working back to the left, and shutting down, so by the time it gets to that ball the club face is going to be closed.  So this is going to be a straight shot, this is going to be a pull. But I need that shot sometimes where I want to hit it really high and get some more carry out of it, so the ball's got to be up in my stance closer to where this white ball is, so what do I do to adjust for that?

                Well, let's look at this logically. First of all, if my face is square with the yellow ball and now it's going to be shut up here but I want it to launch on that target line, how would I do that? The simple answer is I would square up ... excuse me ... close my set up just a little bit and that's going to allow me to get a positive angle of attack and get the ball to start on my target line. Because now, as I said earlier, this is a pull but if I close my stance I'm now set up to the point where this club face would now be squared up instead of a pull. If I went open with it, this would be a bigger pull. All I'm going to do is adjust my set up a few degrees, enough that the club facing is now going to match up with my alignment, here. If I'm set up here and now I'm here, the club face is now just going to be square to where I'm aiming and I'm going to be releasing at that point with the driver.

                All you're going to do in order to get the ball to launch a little bit higher and create a little bit more positive angle of attack, which you can accomplish by moving the ball up in your stance slightly, is alter your stance slightly shut. So now in relationship to where your swinging, the club face would be square to your alignment at impact but shut in relationship to your body, where the ball is at impact.

                Again, this is normal. This is squared up now for a positive angle of attack. All you need to do is just adjust your set up slightly shut and the ball will come off square to your target line and that will help you create a more positive angle of attack with a little bit more carry out of it.

                At the same point, I think it's very, very important that you practice hitting a lot of drives in your normal ball position with the driver. They're going to fly very low in relationship to what this other one's going to do, but it's important to teach yourself how to release the golf club in the same point with every club in the bag so that you have the release points the same. That's going to help you learn to hit the ball straight with every club in the bag. Like I said, your driver's going to fly low, you might take a little bit of a divot with the driver when you're practicing this. Perfectly okay.

                I have a lot of my Tour players purposely do it because they start getting to this point where they try to create a lot of secondary axis tilt to create a really positive angle of attack and so now all of the sudden we've got to fix that. I start having them work on staying more tall and hitting down a little bit so that the driver releases just as a 3 would or 3-iron or pitching wedge would. Then, once we've got that zeroed out and everything's squared up, the ball's coming out low but on line, then we make little set up adjustments to allow them to create a positive angle of attack without trying to get their spine leaned way back at impact. Because you want your body to be basically the same for every club in the bag.

                So change your golf driver setup just a little bit and that will help you hit the driver further when you need it, but practice hitting it square every time with your normal set up so you get the release point in the same place.

Must be Premium Member to Comment

64x64
Matthew
This may be a dumb question, but I've got mixed responses on it elsewhere. If I set the back of my driver on the ground, the face is open with increased loft. I'm pretty sure that I want my normal grip and for it to be oriented normally in relation to the grip's logo print. So, do I then address the ball with the club hovering at square? Or do I allow my left wrist or arm to internally rotate for a relaxed position on the ground? Would this change when I move the ball position forward to being off my left heel vs being off my left ear for the type of practice Chuck is advocating in the video?
April 24, 2024
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. The ball should be off the left instep ( Proper Tee Height Video). When hovering the face should be square. Some manufacturers when you let the club rest it will open the face excessively. So, you may have to get the face back to square and put you grip on if laying it on the ground to start.
April 25, 2024
64x64
Matthew
Ok, so I make my grip in the normal relation to the mid-line, or 6 o'clock say, where the logo would be in a normal grip install. Then I hover the face at square at address. Is that right?
April 25, 2024
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. It's how I roll with the driver .
April 25, 2024
64x64
Matthew
Haha, nice. I think that's what I been doin all along. Or trying to do. But my grip never feels as comfortable with the driver. And the increased axis tilt makes me feel like I'm gonna come in fat if I let it shallow out. I don't get my weight to the lead side, and I spin my hips and obliques too hard because I think that's where speed comes from. But I think this GOAT stuff is helping me to use my hands better. We'll see. It's slow goin. I'll get a review at some point here....
April 25, 2024
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great. Review will be the equalizer. The grip with driver can be finicky because of tilt and setup adjustments. Most have trouble allowing the handle to stay back or standard because most want to reach the hands further forward.
April 26, 2024
64x64
Ted
Proved wrong again. New to RST. Being 68 and two hip replacements plus a pinched nerve in my L4/L5 I had to reinvent my swing many times just to play. Now through heavy exercise and physical therapy on my own I have an opportunity to rotate and swing correct way. Using the RST swing driver method was a question mark and with the numerous modern theories it did not make sense to me. But setting up in front of my swing mirror and swinging slow motion I surrender. Opening up slightly and the standard worked. DUH
March 13, 2024
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great Ted. We are here to help. If you need further assistance let us know. Golf can be backwards in some ways and it's tough to accept different principles than the norm.
March 13, 2024
64x64
Ryan
In all the driver videos I’ve watched over the last couple years this is actually a new perspective. Specifically, the forward ball and closed stance seems quite different to most videos I’ve seen. They typically all say close the stance and move the ball back not forward. I don’t believe I’ve ever tried this method for myself either, I’m eager to see what it produces for me. Especially since I’m better understanding the proper release with all my clubs vs prior to learning the Rotary Swing methods.
October 31, 2023
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ryan. Awesome. The closed stance will help produce a swing direction more to the right to help counter balance the forward ball position and the ball up will aid in the launch angle. Take a look at Proper Tee Height for more little adjustments to maximize driving.
November 1, 2023
64x64
Ryan
Thanks for the advice on the other video. Oddly enough tee height is something I’ve been working on since I saw a golf digest (or similar publication) showing TW uses two different tee heights to produce his cut and high draw. The lower tee really makes it easy to hit a cut, the high tee tends to be 50/50 if I can hit the high draw. I think ball position may be that deterrent to the limited success. Like I said I’m eager to try the forward tee with it higher and a close stance. I’ll report back after my range session tomorrow.
November 1, 2023
64x64
Juan
Do I try and swing IN to Out after closing my stance or do I swing along the original path? Thank you.
May 6, 2023
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Juan. The slightly closed stance will promote a little more of your swing direction to work in to out.
May 8, 2023
64x64
Dave
Great video about the adjustment for the driver. It might be helpful to add the face on view so we can see the ball position in relation to the stance.
June 6, 2021
64x64
Manny (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave... I will make an effort to see if one is available...But, the key to this video is based on the theory of the clubs angle of attack and club path, which is much more suited to a DTL view. Chuck makes note of ball placement which is same as all the other clubs for consistency in learning a good release, but could still be placed forward with the small bit of a closed stance.
June 6, 2021
64x64
Dave
Good information about the closed stance. Since my grip tends to close the face with my irons as well. Should I be closing the stance with those also?
June 2, 2021
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. I wouldn't worry about making that adjustment with irons. But, if you are really changing the face angle. We may need to take a look so you we can minimize variables in the swing and shot dispersion.
June 2, 2021
64x64
Gary C
Does the stance widen a bit for the driver. I remember seeing something about 1.5 inches wider than for all other clubs. Is that 1.5 inches overall or does each foot move out another 1.5 from NJA for a total of about 3-3.5 inches outside NJA for each foot?
December 7, 2020
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. You may widen both about an inch, or inch and a half. Not a requirement though. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video.
December 7, 2020
64x64
David
Just clarifying something. I’m assuming we close our stance line but leave the face where it is? Essentially setting up with a slightly closed face at address? Thanks.
February 25, 2020
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Yes, but you are adjusting setup and not turning down the face. Also, take a look at Proper Tee Height Video for more follow up info on driver setup.
February 25, 2020
64x64
David
I see. So everything gets shifted to the right including the face. Essentially lining up right and at impact the clubface should be slightly closed to the stance line.
February 26, 2020
64x64
Matthew
Hi Craig, Any driver tips to help straighten the ball out off the tee? Most will be swing related, but possibly any alignment tips, or ball position, tempo for more consistency. For instance, when playing away from trouble, angling away from water per say. It’s tough when you can have a two way miss to aim anywhere but middle fairway.
February 6, 2020
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video for more setup adjustments. Typically, the driver not going straight is from murdering the ball with force. I would focus on 75% effort quieting excessive force/spin/dive and really letting the club release through without effort.
February 7, 2020
64x64
Joost
I really, really like your physics approach to the swing, but I find this video hard to comprehend. Imo, the proposed solution to fix the shut face with the forward ball (which is closing your stance by moving the left foot closer to the ball) effectively moves the ball forward in the stance relative to the feet, causing the face to be even more shut at impact. You would have to adjust your whole stance a bit shut, AND a bit forward to get the wished effect. In fact, you could almost hit the original ball position. This does not seem a simpler adjustment than opening the club a hair (by aligning on the left side of the logo on the grip)
December 20, 2019
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joost. I would also recommend you to take a look at Proper Tee Height Video for more setup follow up. Thanks for the compliments of our approach. If you merely leave the ball position the same you will have to manipulate the swing to catch the ball on a positive angle of attack. We would rather one swing for all shots with a minor setup adjustment. How much open face is enough? It is much easier to adjust alignment of the body to know the direction of flight versus trying to find the perfect openness to get the ball to start online.
December 20, 2019
64x64
Christopher
When practicing the driver with the ball in the stock position (not forward in stance), how high do you recommend the tee’d ball to be?
September 26, 2019
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video. The answers you seek will be there.
September 26, 2019
64x64
Mohnishkumar
Hello, how much the tilt would be with the driver . Does , it would be same like irons or little bit more .
April 27, 2019
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mohnishkumar. It would depend on ball position and stance width. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video.
April 27, 2019
64x64
Tram
I use to set up with the ball teed up high about 3/4 of the club face and my stance is parallel to the target line. After that I move backward the clubface 6 inches which draws a curve. Than I adjust my stance with the new clubface line. In that position when I move the clubface 6 inches forward It become square to the initial target line. Is this set up is correct? I would like to use this set up as routine for the swing of the driver. Thank.
March 20, 2019
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tram. It sounds like you are making the proper adjustment with closing the stance slightly for a max launch drive. However, without seeing it. You may be doing it to an extreme. I would be careful not to overly close the stance relative to how much you move the club face back. The adjustment with stance is slight and not a major movement.
March 20, 2019
64x64
Olli
I have been working on my swing during the winter and gained some very good consistency with all the clubs. However, my angle of attack with the driver is about negative 5 degrees, which is roughly the same that it is with the irons. What would be the number one thing to get it lower? I've already tried to move the ball up in my stance, but it did nothing. Maybe I'm subconsciously compensating things... However I'd like to get it lower, cause I'm losing a lot of distance because of it. My club head speed is about 103 mph, and drives carry about 230 yards. Launch angle is 10 to 12 degrees and spin rate 3000 to 4000 rpm.
March 7, 2019
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Olli. Take a look at Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball. Sounds like you are letting the club release even with the setup adjustments.
March 7, 2019
64x64
Tyler (Certified RST Instructor)
How do i know what the right driver shaft weight is? Mine is 72 g right now and i think thats way to heavy. It's really brought my ball flight down and I get stuck with the driver alot
July 11, 2018
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tyler. Trial and error. You need to be properly fit and try few different weights. If you feel your swing speed and launch angle are off. Your shaft weight for your swing could be incorrect.
July 11, 2018
64x64
Sam
Curious as to what effect standing further away from the ball (right hand outside chin line) in your setup position would have on your swing/release? Thanks!
June 7, 2018
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. Typically, too far away would flatten the swing plane and would would feel the need to add more trail hand to get the crossover in the release.
June 7, 2018
64x64
Marcel
If you hitting a little down on the ball, how high your tee the ball? Thanks in advance Chuck or Craig.
May 31, 2018
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marcel. Not very high at all. Typically, the ball around the middle of the face. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video.
May 31, 2018
64x64
Yuefeng
I also want to clarify if we don't do any set up adjustment for the ball in front position, could the ball flight be a slice as well? Given the club path swings in an arc, and will be naturally a bit out to in from the stock ball position to the front ball position, this combined with a open club face relative to the club path.
April 27, 2018
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. Yes, it could lead to a slice due to not making the setup adjustment. It is very common in amateur golfers.
April 27, 2018
64x64
Yuefeng
As long as we place the ball off the left heel, this setup adjustment will be necessary, is this correct? My ball seldom flies straight unless I use this closed stance. But then I got confused because I don't tend to see a lot of pros use this adjustment when they place the ball off their left heels...
April 26, 2018
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. Pros sometimes make so slight of an adjustment it is hard to tell. They also make other manipulations in the swing to get away with ball position, etc. If you want to bomb the driver and place the ball forward. Anatomically speaking and for less required manipulation to hit the proper impact. The slight closing makes the swing more efficient and less timing dependent.
April 27, 2018
64x64
Jeffrey
During the first part of this video, you put out the idea that you should try to have essentially the same swing for every club, but adjustments made for driver/ fairway woods due to length. I am contemplating going to one length clubs, because it seems to me that if all my irons are the same length, I would be much more consistent with them. Any thoughts?
December 11, 2017
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. Yes, one swing for all clubs with only setup adjustments necessary. In theory if they are built properly you should be able to be more consistent. I haven't done much trail and error with them yet though.
December 11, 2017
64x64
Ron A. Sr.
In this video, you need to face the camera and let us see the ball positions. Thanks Young fellow Ron Nelson
September 3, 2017
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Ron, Thanks for the suggestion. We will work on getting a video together that shows this more clearly.
September 5, 2017
64x64
Benson
can i ask. my height is 5'5. will this cause an issue with driver setup with an off the rack driver? should i be cutting the shaft a couple inches to compensate for this? sometimes when i setup, it feels a little off in terms of the face angle and the way it rests on the ground. i'm sure they build the clubs to suit a range of heights but i'm wondering if i may be low on the scale and so it sits improperly. thanks!
July 30, 2017
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Benson, you definitely need to see a reputable club fitter in your area that can help you match the club based on the swing you are presenting them, including the setup adjustments we mention in this video.
August 1, 2017
64x64
T David
So, if my stance with the driver is slightly closed, should the driver face follow this change as well (pointing to the right of the target)? Or should it continue to be square with the target?
June 4, 2017
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. It will still be pointed at the target with a slightly closed stance. Also, take a look at the Proper Tee Height Video for more info.
June 4, 2017
64x64
Steven
Watching the Driver Adjustment video. I'm confused by the closing of the stance vs simply opening the face of the driver slightly?
May 23, 2017
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. You could slightly open the driver. But, we prefer not to aim the club face too much off target as it create more of a timing necessity to have it square at the proper time. And, if you inhibit the squaring of the open face the ball will be starting much too far offline. Use this video in conjunction with the Proper Tee Height Video for optimal setup.
May 23, 2017
64x64
Yuefeng
Hello Craig. So in the adjusted setup, the club face should be pointing towards the target line or the toe line? If the former, would this lead to a draw or possibly even a hook given the club face will be shut in relation to the swing path? Thank you.
March 30, 2017
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. It will tend to lead to a little draw. But, with the adjusted setup (stance, face and ball). The compensations made should keep you away from a big pull. The club should be squared to where you are aiming,
March 31, 2017
64x64
Yuefeng
I have two questions: 1) is the club face closure rate slower with more secondary axis tilt? 2) with a slightly closed stance at set up, do I close my shoulders to align with my feet? Do I open the club club face a little bit? Do I feel my swing to be still along the target line or the now closed line? Thanks!
March 26, 2017
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. Usually when adding more secondary tilt. The club will shallow out. Which could lead a slower closure rate in the initial part of the swing. You are looking for the entire body to be adjusted. Shoulders, knees, feet, etc. all matching the slight closure. The swing will still feel along your body line and you may open the face depending on the type shot. Remember its only a slight adjustment. You don't need to be closed 25 degrees.
March 27, 2017
64x64
Yuefeng
Hello Craig, also curious to know without making any setup adjustment, with the slightly closed clubface (possibly also a bit out-to-in angle as well?) at impact, how much left to the target will the ball end up here for a 250 yards drive?
March 29, 2017
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. Tough to say an exact amount. However, a few degrees off at impact can dramatically change the initial ball flight. 85% of initial ball flight will be determined by the face angle at impact.
March 29, 2017
64x64
Yuefeng
Understood. So without doing any adjustment, the ball flight will likely be a pull hook? I'm trying to gauge if this would result in just a few yardages off, or a potential O.B. I'm asking also because I didn't realize the necessity of setup adjustment until recently. In my previous practices, I can somehow manage to hit pretty straight shots without any adjustment (possibly due to added secondary axis tilt with slightly delayed release??). But as I continue to work on my swing, I start to hit hook shots now.
March 29, 2017
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yuefeng. Yes, with a slightly closed face (possibly out to in). The big pull hook can come into play without adjusting setup. It sounds like to me that you kept the setup normal. But, wanted to start getting more distance with the driver. Therefore, causing you to over rotate the hands too soon. But, the club ended up shut with over rotation of the hands and lack of setup adjustment.
March 30, 2017
64x64
Mary
Thank you for your reply where do I find this review, have tried to search and nothing came up?
November 1, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mary. If you navigate to the Swing Review Tab at the Top of the Page. Click Get a Swing Review. And, then upload a Face On and Down the Line View Video no more than 30 Seconds each. We will be happy to take a look. You get 2 per month as part of your membership.
November 1, 2016
64x64
Mary
I understand the rules of ball position for all other clubs except the Driver, but I am still struggling to hit my fairway 3 wood, using the RST ball position, can you help?
November 1, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mary. You want to shy away from having the 3 Wood too far up in the stance. Have you uploaded a 3 Wood Swing for Review?
November 1, 2016
64x64
Joel
Understood why they showed just the down the line view but also briefly showing ball position in the head on view would help
November 1, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joel. Take a look at the Proper Tee Height Video.
November 1, 2016
64x64
jeff
Hi Craig, could you provide a link to the Proper Tee Height Video? I can't find it doing a regular search. Thanks, Jeff
December 2, 2016
64x64
Joel
I will. was just commenting that the straight on view would've been nice since two ball positions were discussed. Thanks
November 1, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joel. I agree. The video I replied to you with will show you the Face On Adjustments.
November 1, 2016
64x64
T David
I was at the range today working on my RST weight shift. Everything is coming together with all clubs except my driver. I have made these adjustments but can't seem to hit anything but a fade. I can't for the life me hit a draw. Any help on this?
October 9, 2016
64x64
Micah (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Dave, This is very common with most golfers. It could be a series of flaws in the swing. You might need to close your stance more, could be coming out to in, open club face, casting, hip spinning. Check out the "Drawing the Ball" "Coming over the Top and Slicing" and "stop slicing and Start Releasing" videos. If these don't help send in a swing review with your drive so we can see what's going on.
October 10, 2016
64x64
T David
Thanks, Micah. I will do that, since I am now due to send in a swing. I did look at the coming over the top and slicing video. Currently working on that weight shift swing with the left arm drill that Chuck does.
October 10, 2016
64x64
Micah (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem Dave. Keep up the good work!
October 10, 2016
64x64
Joel
Is there a video where i can choose the correct driver for me?
October 9, 2016
64x64
Micah (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Joel, any of our video's on driving and the driver can help you understand the science and engineering of the club that will assist you in determining your individualized specs. The best thing to do is to learn how launch angle, Center of gravity, spin rate, sweet spot, club head speed, etc. work (which are all videos we have) Then go to a store that has a launch monitor and swing clubs to fit your specs.... keep in mind that with RST your stats are going to increase dramatically if you become dedicated to the system and might require stiffer shafts, lower loft, etc.
October 10, 2016
64x64
Chris
Hi, it seems that some players widen thier stance when hitting the driver, is this correct or should we have a normal width between the feet?
August 2, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. You may widen a touch. Take a look at the Proper Tee Height Video.
August 3, 2016
64x64
Chris
Thanks for your quick response, that video was perfect
August 3, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem Chris. We are always here to help.
August 3, 2016
64x64
Marc
Hi Craig, can you please correct my understanding. When I put the ball much further up in my stance to create maximum distance, I create more axis tilt so I can address the ball and at that stage the clubface is square to my intended line. I then bring back my right foot which will close my stance knowing that I will swing along the lines of my feet in the backswing. The question for me is whether the clubface is still perpendicular to the line of my feet when I close the feet or whether it is pointing at the target line? Best, Marc
June 26, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marc. The club will be pointing at the target line.
June 27, 2016
64x64
Marc
But it is the case Craig then my stance will be closed in relationship to the clubface which will promote a draw. And with the ball forward the draw will be accentuated even more.
June 27, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Marc. This is for max launch and hit. Take a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video for the setup described here. I think the visual will be better than my explanation. Also, the Proper Tee Height Video to add more tilt with a further up ball position for just a bit higher launch and more yards.
June 27, 2016
64x64
Sam
General question... does the driver take longer to release due to its length and that is why we can move the ball up slightly from stock ball position (1/2 ball) and still get a straight ball flight? Is this also why we can move it 6 inches up for a max shot and not have a VERY closed clubface at impact. I know it will be closed a bit....but when I practice my swing in slomo from a stock ball position and I go through my release, at the 6 inch mark past my stock ball position (where the clubface is square) the face is very, very shut. Thanks!!
May 1, 2016
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Stan, the movements of the body should still allow you to release the club the same way as an iron. We move it forward to help catch the ball more on the ascending blow rather than the descending so we launch the ball higher with less spin. The clubface closure rate can be dictated by the amount of secondary axis tilt you are getting with the driver in the hitting area. If you are seeing that the club is closed, you may need to be more patient with the driver working down in front of the body before your release it.
May 1, 2016
64x64
Sam
"The clubface closure rate can be dictated by the amount of secondary axis tilt you are getting with the driver in the hitting area. " Could you please expand on this statement? Does this mean the more secondary axis tilt we have the further beyond our stock ball position the club face will be square? Where my confusion lies is that if we take one of chucks iron swing from the FO view, and we go 6 in past where he impacts the ball, the club face is very closed....would this not happen with the driver as well if we move the ball 6 inches up? Thanks!!!
May 2, 2016
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The clubface with a stock iron shot 6" is post impact should not very "very closed" at all. In fact, if you look at the club face 6" prior to impact and then 6" post impact, you would only see the toe of the club being slightly open to every so slightly closed. Now, from hip high to hip high or 9 to 3, you will see the the toe of the club is aimed at the sky on both sides of the body. Forget about the secondary axis tilt comment for a moment and understand that yes, by moving the ball more forward in the stance, the club face will have rotated more closed but not a ton. You can make some adjustments to your stance by setting up a bit closed with your stance so that the club face is more square at impact with the ball being forward. I would focus on working on hitting your driver from a stock ball position (maybe just a slight amount forward) and getting your release refined to produce a straight shot. Of course, you may sacrifice a little bit of distance because you will be hitting the ball lower but then you can slowly start to move the ball up, adjust the stance width and the close your stance slightly and start to work on adding a more positive angle of attack to get the ball launching a bit higher. Make these adjustments slowly as you do not want to sacrifice control for wayward tee shots. Hope that helps.
May 2, 2016
64x64
Sam
Sounds good, appreciate the reply!
May 2, 2016
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
My pleasure Stan. Keep me posted if you need more help.
May 2, 2016
64x64
Sam
Could you help out integrating the tee height video with this video? Where my confusion lies: Could you use the stock ball position and widen the stance (creating more secondary axis tilt) to get the ball up in the air (as in tee height video) instead of moving the ball forward of stock and having to close the stance (as in this video)? Thanks!
March 26, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stan. Yes, you could use that method. For maximum height you would need to tee it a little higher and forward. But, if you use stock with a little more tilt/stance width you can increase a little of the launch angle.
March 26, 2016
64x64
Greg
So the face will be closed to the new swing path and square to the target line? Will the release point feel the same as the stock shot? Could you also describe ball position and club face orientation in respect to target and swing path lines for the fade? I get the open stance and delaying the release but confused about ball position and club face orientation. The initial path is determined by club face. Correct?
March 23, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. The face will be closed to the new swing path and square (or aimed) at the intended target line. The release point will feel the same just catching the ball at a different time. Initial path is determined by club face. Take a look at the 9 Days to Amazing Ball Striking Fade Videos. They will give you a clear picture.
March 23, 2016
64x64
Greg
So just to clarify, when I am in the closed stance the club face will be slightly open to the target line? Do you have any suggestions on how to avoid going after a ball that is 6 inches ahead? Do you try to stare at the spot the ball would be in a normal stock shot rather than the back of the teed ball?
March 22, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. The face will be pointing down the intended path or original starting position with the square feet. Two things to avoid going after. You can focus where the ball would originally be a swing through as normal. Or, keep in mind that you only have one speed burst in the swing. You don't want to use it to early and you have to wait for the club to reach the ball to maximize the attack.
March 22, 2016
64x64
Greg
So I get the closed stance, but does that mean Chuck positions the ball 6 inches ahead of the normal stock shot? Does he also start the driver head in a position where he would have it in a normal stock shot? If I were going through a routine to set up for this shot, would I place the club 6 inches back of the ball with the club head positioned as if I were going to hit a normal stock shot. The club face would be square to the target line. Then I would slightly close my stance, allowing the club face to slightly open to the target line. Is that correct?
March 22, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. Yes, about 6 inches up from stock. To help deliver more on the upswing. Start with head in normal positions for lines. Then, go through the routine you described above. Also, have a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video.
March 22, 2016
64x64
Robert
Great explanation. I've always had a problem with putting the ball forward in my stance with the driver,, I've had various reactions to ball flight, so I've always put the ball in my normal position and seem to hit it a lot better, not farther, but with more accuracy, andI thought it was a wrong way to hit the driver. Your explanation made the light bulb go off in my head, and it makes such perfect sense. Thanks again for your great teachings. No one but you and your other instructors teach us the correct ways in all aspects of the game. Bob
January 12, 2016
64x64
Robert
Can't find that video ( Driver Launch Angle Video). A search did not find it either.
January 12, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. Thanks for the compliments! Also, take a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video for more information on this topic. We like hearing about the light bulbs.
January 12, 2016
64x64
Robert
Can't find that video ( Driver Launch Angle Video). A search did not find it either.
January 12, 2016
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. I just tried the search bar and the video was found on the server. I apologize it isn't working correctly on your end. The video is located in the Bomb Your Driver Series.
January 12, 2016
64x64
Corey
One of issues (that I know of) when I set up to hit my Driver is that I'm never sure if my club shaft is at a too steep of an angle at address. With irons I know the bottom surface should be flush at impact so I can use that for feedback. All my Driver has is a line on the top surface to help me determine which way the face of the club is aiming. I have know idea how to resolve this dilemma or is this something you just figure out by hitting a lot of balls?
December 14, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Corey. It takes practice. Some of the soles on newer drivers make it very hard to place on the ground and square up the face at address.
December 14, 2015
64x64
Robert James
Craig, great video and works well for a high draw with the driver. Chuck mentions that opening up your stance just leads to the ball going further left. So, how do you get the ball to fade when you need to play the left side of fairway or hit to a dogleg right? In the bomb your drive series, he mentions how some learn to hit a controlled fade but doesn't share how it is done. Can you help?
November 2, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. Practice holding off the face a little to keep it from shutting down. You would actually open the stance just slightly and keep the hands just ahead of the club a bit longer from the upper or more forward ball position.
November 2, 2015
64x64
Virgil
Instead of closing the stance when moving the ball position forward to hit up and maximize distance, can opening the driver face with an adjustable driver straighten out the ball flight?
November 1, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Virgil. That could work. However, most players with the open face will start to aggressively rotate the hands more to shut the club. Therefore, you would actually start losing launch and could lead to a lower trajectory.
November 2, 2015
64x64
Virgil
Thanks, I think I'll test this out and also increase the loft some to compensate. Sometimes with the maximum distance setup I mishit the ball because the close stance feel uncomfortable and un-natural.
November 2, 2015
64x64
Virgil
When I close my stance and move the ball forward in effort to gain more distance, will my swing path be along my stance or square to target?
July 26, 2015
64x64
Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
If you close your stance to the target the club will travel along your body line (// to the shoulder plane, if the hands and arm are back in front of the body) and not the at the target. If you closed your stance and your path was at the target you would be swinging across the ball.
July 27, 2015
64x64
Miraj
This is a very interesting and valuable video. However angle of the camera for lesson should have a component that shows front angle.
July 17, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Miraj. Take a look at Driver Launch Angle Video in the Bomb Your Driver Series.
July 17, 2015
64x64
Richard
Is the initial weight distribution at set up different for the driver versus irons? Should you have more weight on the front leg at the start ?
July 5, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. The weight distribution should be the same.
July 6, 2015
64x64
Mario
Need some help with driver. I credit RST with vastly improving my iron game - long and short irons. But I seem to have lost control of my driver. The misses are generally a push to the right. Not a slice but a push. When I try not to push the ball I end up pulling it. Very frustrating. I'll upload a video when I have time, but is there anything you can offer with this limited information?
June 6, 2015
64x64
R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Mario, depending on how well you've started to develop lag while working on your RST swing, it's entirely possible that you're creating too much lag, which is causing an inside to out club path. Check out the "How your lag affects your club path" video to see if that is the root of your issue. R.J.
June 6, 2015
64x64
Loran
If I have a good lie, like in the middle of the fairway, and I know a three 3 wood won't help me launch to the pin...should I opt for the driver?
May 21, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. The Driver off the deck can give you more distance, but it will be hard to maximize higher launch than the 3 Wood.
May 22, 2015
64x64
Richard
This video could be made better if the "face on" perspective was show as well as the down the line perspective.
May 2, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Take a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video in the Bomb Your Driver Section.
May 2, 2015
64x64
Richard
After giving it some more thought I believe that on overhead view would actually be best. It provide the most information in a single view, It would show 1) Ball Position in relation to the placement of the feet for Draw versus fade versus straight shot. 2) Ball Position change for +ve angle of attack versus slightly -ve. 3) How much open or closed the stance is. 4) Clearly shows face angle at address. 5) Shows distance from ball at setup. 6) Shows placement of club head at address in relation to ball. (Towards toe, Towards Heel, Dead Center).
May 11, 2015
64x64
Sean
So being new to the RST maybe I'm missing something. First I'd like to say I've never hit an iron more pure than I have over the last two weeks. I have a ton of things to work on but until RST I had never taken a divot (in front of the ball). Like I said I'm working on getting to a full swing but am confident that I'll get there. The problem has been this...the driver. What used to be my best club probably in the bag or the club I was most confident with has now gone to my worst. I've reviewed this video and tried things out today, not sure if I'm missing something or if it's because of all the other swing changes but I am absolutely struggling with the driver. Any additional info or ideas would be great. For the most part I'm hitting HUGE slices now or topping the ball which doesn't even make sense. Thanks Sean
April 2, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sean. If you are topping the ball you more than likely are hanging back and adding too much secondary axis tilt. This problem can also lead to a huge slice. Make sure you shift your weight, maintain better angles, and release. Use the RST Tempo Drill in the Introduction Advanced Section to help with the shift. LADD and Face On Impact Alignments in the Downswing for plane, angles and squaring up the face.
April 2, 2015
64x64
scott
Also, to hit up on the ball for driver does this also include your 3w, 5w and 7w ext.
March 14, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. The driver is typically the only wood in the bag where you want a positive angle of attack.
March 14, 2015
64x64
scott
Does your stance widen as you go up in clubs or narrow as go down in clubs. For example if you are hitting sand wage vs a 7 iron? Or is the it standard to stay at your left ear on all clubs.
March 14, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. For the majority of all RST stock shots the stance width will stay the same. 2 inches outside Neutral Joint Alignment. Irons will stay the same. Driver can widen a touch, but is unnecessary. When you get to short shots (i.e. pitch or chipping). It will tend to narrow from there. 2 1/2 club head widths for pitch and around a club head width for chip.
March 14, 2015
64x64
Caleb
I know from RST that in the driver setup the butt of the club should be aimed at around the belt line; which would be a relaxed wrist with the arms hanging straight down . This would create a slight hinge in my wrists which would be about the correct hinge for my wrist at the top of my swing. I see a lot of my playing partners bend their wrist down so there would be a straight line from the forearm to the thumb with no wrist hinge. This would seem to now force them to recreate the nature hinge that would be needed at the top of the swing. Am I wrong in thinking this??
March 10, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Caleb. Yes, you are correct. You need a certain amount of hinge in the setup. If you get too much in a straight line positioning with the forearms. It will require some type of adjustment to get the club setting up vertically and supporting it correctly in the hands.
March 10, 2015
64x64
Caleb
thank you for your quick response!! I also want to thank all of RST's staff (especially Chuck) for helping me become the best golfer in my 20 years of playing golf. Turning 65 in May and hitting the ball straighter and farther than ever thanks to RST (and proving that you can get older and still hit it farther!!). Having my most consistent scoring run of 4 @ 79's and 4 @ 80's out of my last 12 rounds in my life. Now all of my playing partners are asking me just what is RST???? LOL
March 10, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem Caleb. All of us appreciate the compliments. Don't tell them the RST secret too soon. Take a little money off their hands, then you can share the secret weapon.
March 10, 2015
64x64
Caleb
I was just talking to my wife about RST and she had mentioned one of wives of one of my playing partners had asked about RST and said the husband was looking for a "quick fix" for a problem. I said that in RST all of the videos are NOT quick fixes, but solutions if the golfer is willing to practice and change. I said a golfer could look at any of the videos and "fix" a problem, but it would be for good if they really incorporated it into their swing. So while most golfers do not improve because of the "quick fix tip of the week" ; in RST, if they watch the video, understand the theory and practice the drills; they will be fixed forever!!! I only wished that I found you guys 20 years ago!!!
March 10, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Caleb. We weren't around 20 years ago or would've been happy to help. I get "quick fix" request all the time for in-person lessons. I tell them the exact same thing. We deal with permanent changes for the golfer that wants to be better for life, not just one round. Knowledge is power. And, knowing your swing and how to truly improve makes for a happy golfer.
March 10, 2015
64x64
Norman
Hi Guys, I notice some good players address the ball (with a driver) between the sweet spot and the toe. Is there any particular reason that they do this? Your views and comments please.
February 5, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Norman. Sometimes its mechanical and other times for the particular driver head. When certain players get off with mechanics and start spraying the ball on the face. They tend to have a quick fix. Example: For a player constantly hitting heel shots will quick fix by aligning on the toe. Giving them the ability to hit the sweet spot without needing to change their swing on the go. Others do it to hit the exact sweet spot. The sweet spot is rarely dead in the middle of the face. The tendency is a little up and towards the toe on the face. The are setting up right on the best launch for the driver head. Take a look at the Bomb Your Driver Series - Sweet Spot Video.
February 6, 2015
64x64
Andrew
Hi, I played an 18 hole for the first time in more than 2 months. I wanted to get the technique right before I start playing in the field. It was a dramatic improvement from what I was hitting 2 months ago, but I noticed one common issue with my driver and only with my driver. The ball flew straight, which was great, but it flew up way too high to the point where I lost distance. The sound off the driver sounded great, the swing felt fast, effortless power, but when I look for the ball, it landed about 150 to 190 yards out. The setup at tee: ball about a little over half a ball size above the club face and teed up at the big toe of my lead leg. Should I adjust my driver to deloft the club or is it something in my swing that isn't right? I don't have any videos and I guess I address this as soon as I get my long iron clubs down. Thanks, Andrew
January 20, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andrew. It sounds like excessive spin and the ball riding up the face. You might need to de-loft the driver. Also, make sure your aren't getting too much of a positive angle of attack and adding more secondary axis tilt. Take a look at Understanding Ball Speed and Driver Launch Angle Video in the Bomb Your Driver Series (Bonus Section).
January 21, 2015
64x64
Andrew
Hi Craig, Thanks. I went to the range today and I couldn't replicate the swing from yesterday. Maybe I teed up the ball a lot higher than I initially thought and beyond what the machine would allow me to tee up. I will take a look at those two videos. Thanks again and love RST. Andrew
January 21, 2015
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Andrew. Thanks for the update! Keep moving forward with your game!
January 23, 2015
64x64
Christian
Wow great idea. I want to try it.
December 8, 2014
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christian. You can also take a look at the Driver Launch Angle Video in the Bonus Series - Bomb Your Driver Section. Further explanation of the benefits.
December 8, 2014
64x64
Dennis
This video would have been perfect if Chuck had shown us a face on view,so we would have known where he places the ball in his stance for these two shots.
November 1, 2014
64x64
R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Dennis, He says in the video that the ball is roughly 6 inches forward of his normal position. However, that's what it would be for Chuck and his size. Someone with wider shoulders would need to move it up further. Basically, what we're trying to accomplish here is catch the ball on the upswing. The club doesn't start moving upward until after where we bottom out our divots. Our divots bottom out in the center of our lead shoulder because that's point where our left arm is extended the furthest. So moving the ball slightly forward of the center of the left shoulder will start to get the ball moving on an ascending blow. The further you move the ball up in your stance, the more closed your stance needs to be though. If you see some long drive golfers, the ball is teed up well in front of their front shoulder, that would take a lot of practice to be able to hit it like that though. R.J.
November 2, 2014
64x64
R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Okay now, I am not suggesting by any means that I am correct in what I am going to say, but this video is the only one on the site that doesn't make sense to me. Everything about the RST program has been preaching consistency and safety. When we want to hit the ball straight, we line up neutrally. When we want to draw the ball, we stand with a stance that promotes an in-to-out swing and vice verse when we want to fade the ball. The example above has us lining up for an in-to-out swing and we're trying to hit the ball straight. The only reason why we do that is because the club face shuts down after the standard impact position, which would cause a pull or hook when we move the ball forward in our stance. Now, I've noticed that the TP versions of drivers tend to be naturally setup with open club faces and I've heard about pros actually preferring that. I would assume that would be so that they could catch the ball on an ascending blow with a square club face with the ball teed up more forward in their stance, using their normal setup and swing to do it. So, would I be crazy to assume that it would be easier, more consistent and more to RST fundamentals to setup to the ball neutrally, using the same grip and swing to hit the ball straight? Then the only thing we would need to do to add to the launch trajectory would be to move the ball forward and open the club face a little bit before we grip the club, kind of like a flop shot but not as drastic. Then the club face should be coming in square at impact with a square path (you might have to move a hair closer to the ball, if you pull your arms in towards the body after impact, but that would promote a narrow follow through and we don't want that either) and we didn't have to tinker with our swing at all. I can see that the argument could be made that opening the face would add a different feel to the takeaway and backswing because of the weight of the club being shifted, but honestly, I feel that if we're concerned about making adjustments to get more distance out of the driver, then we've already mastered our other movements. At that point, what the club is doing shouldn't even be a concern for the golfer if the body is doing the correct movements. I don't know. Just a thought. If there is any scientific evidence as to why Chuck's way to add launch trajectory is better than mine, I would love to know because I am completely open to the idea that I'm missing something here.
September 30, 2014
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello R.J. Technically, I see where you are going. A couple thoughts though. 85 % of our ball flight is dictated by the club face. If you start tinkering around with how open the driver is setup up at the ball. How much to too much? How much is too little? The setup is a easier place to gauge the adjustments, than degrees on the face. The club ins't going to want to return to a square position as easily without over releasing the club. When you start changing the dynamics of the face at address. You are messing with feel and weight. Even to the advanced golfer, this can through off rhythm, timing and swing. With a face more open, the golfer is going to feel "i gotta get this thing back closed. " I see its working for you and thats great. Its just tough to gauge the degree of openness that would benefit and maximize the launch angle every time. Setup is an easier adjustment to nail down.
October 1, 2014
64x64
R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Let me further illustrate what I am talking about. In my normal setup, I take the standard RST setup with the ball under the left ear. When I put the tee into the ground, I put it half way up the face. This gives me a nice solid strike in the middle of the face, just about every time. I use, currently, an Adams Speedline Fast 12 (9.5*) driver. The face is neutral at setup with the grip alignment, which is the word "Adams" written down the grip. When I grip the club, my left hand is on top of the grip like Chuck prefers and my left thumb points immediately down the middle of the "Adams" alignment aid. When I'm trying to bomb my driver, I setup like I would normally. I put a tee in the ground like I would normally, half way up the club face, directly under my left ear. Instead of putting the ball on it, I put my driver in front of it so that the back of my driver is touching the tee. I put a second tee in the ground in front of the driver face about three quarters of the way up the face. Then I take the first tee out of the ground. The driver head is 4.75" in x-axis width. Using that to move the ball forward in my stance is arbitrary, but consistent. Now that I have the ball teed up higher and more forward in my stance in such a way that I could do it consistently, I set up to the ball. I do everything exactly the same as my normal swing, except when I go to grip the club, I still have my hand on top of the grip, but instead of running my thumb line down the middle of the "Adams" alignment logo, I have my thumb line aiming down the left side of the alignment logo. I ground the club where I would for a normal shot, which would be 4.75" behind the ball, when I start my takeaway. Then I do my swing exactly the same as I would any other time and it seems to work perfectly for me. Let me know what you guys think
September 30, 2014
64x64
roland
Dear Chuck, thank you for everything, my golf swing is improving since I try to follow your instructions. I have a concern regarding how high should the ball be teed?
September 4, 2014
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roland. Thanks for the compliments. Depending on what launch angle you are trying to achieve. Try not to tee it too high. Most players miss teeing the ball too high causing them to adjust too many body positions coming into impact.
September 4, 2014
64x64
Robert
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLaEuJp-FuM The above swing from chuck looks and sounds great. I have a question about arm position for the driver. At setup, the arms aren't hanging vertically up and down like I see with iron swing examples. Many touring pros seem to have their arms a bit less than vertical when setting up with the driver. I assume this is an attempt to swing on plane with such a long club. Ideally, are we supposed to keep the arms hanging and vertical at address with the driver? I ask because, when I really focus on proper setup with my irons my swing is much much better and I'm trying to groove a proper setup as the catalyst for everything else. Is there some wiggle room with the driver with respect to arm verticality?
August 26, 2014
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Ideally you would want to get it as close as possible. The tendency would be reaching for it if not. But, I see what you are saying. I will allow a little wiggle room. However, if you can upload a swing to our online review system. Let us check it out. Make sure you're not getting too crazy with it.
August 27, 2014
64x64
Matthew
On a typical drive where the ball is played under the logo of the shirt (instead of up farther as this video shows) would it help to adjust my driver's loft from a 10.5 to 12 degree to potentially get more carry now that I am swinging down at it? or would this degree change be negligible?
June 24, 2014
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The degree change would make a difference. In the Bomb Your Driver series. Chuck will explain how setup adjustments can be made to max out distance with the driver. Try the stock position first, before change the driver head. We want to watch out for too much spin. If you can't create the normal amount of carry, you can adjust the setup accordingly. Look at the Video Practice Points here, too understand the adjustment.
June 24, 2014
64x64
ALPHAS
I'm having difficulty with the placement of the ball for the 3-wood. What is the optimum placement? When I sole the club, it appears slightly closed, no matter where I place the ball in my stance.
May 30, 2014
64x64
Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
If you place the sole on the ground. Some clubs will not sit squarely. They will tend to toe in and shut down. The optimum ball placement would be off of the left ear or logo on the left side of a golf shirt (for right handed).
May 30, 2014
64x64
Blake
Because this is shot from behind and there is no FO view, I can only assume that Chuck is talking about, instead of this: I* do this /* . Ball placement stays the same, lined up with the lable on your shirt, you just adjust your stance. Im I getting this correct or am I missing something? Also, by doing this drill, yes I am getting more loft and 90% of the time, when I approach the ball like this I* for my alignment, then switch to this /*, my ball continues along the path of original alignment. The other 10% of the time /* this becomes my new line and the ball flight follows this path and trajectory. I have taken a few divots behind the ball when practicing this adjustment but I just wanted clairification on what exactly Chuck is talking about since there is no FO view. Again it starts with I* for alignment and then the stance shifts to this /* with the clubface following the original line before adujstment of your stance...with the ball still aligned with the lable on your shirt. Is this correct?
May 11, 2014
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
The ball position will adjust quite a bit forward for this style of shot and you have to close the stance just a bit so that the club face is more square when working on positive angle of attack. Ball position would be more towards the lead heel. You can play around with the position and see what launch angle suits you best.
May 12, 2014
64x64
Blake
Thanks Chris! MS moment...it took me about 3-5 more time watching the video to hear him say move the ball forward in your stance...half a ball width, but in other videos, and I can can't remember the names, THANK YOU FOR MAKING THE FAVORITE BUTTON, he did say move forward as much as 6 inches but big-toe middle of front foot and a higher tee setup when using this stance. I think it was mixed in the BYD videos and around finding the COG of your head and finding the loft at that COG (Sweet Spot, Hot Spot) and understanding about ball rotation +- depending on low or high of COG. I believe it was actually the Grip Video in the BYD system.
May 12, 2014
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
I don't see anything on the site referencing specifically the setup position with the driver relating to posture and whether the hands are still under the Chin at setup. Do we stand a little taller? Otherwise the driver toe socks up more
April 28, 2014
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
There can be some marginal change in spine angle with the driver but it shouldn't be much as a whole to get the hands under the chin and have the driver soled properly.
April 28, 2014
64x64
michael
I notice when you adjust your stance from square to closed that you move your front foot slightly forward and not just simply dropping your rear foot back behind, ala Greg Norman. This front foot adjust makes sence as it will help get the shoulders more on the ball flight line and not stay squre to the target line. My question is how far did you move your front foot forward? Are you adjusting to the forward postion of the ball in driver set up? By the way I liked the older web site. Seems it was easier to find the videos I want to watch.
April 9, 2014
64x64
Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Moving the lead foot forward can be a variable from one person to the next based on overall build and posture. You may need to play around with it a bit to find your sweet spot. The ball position will change to more forward as well.
April 9, 2014

We're after one thing: Real Results - Real Fast. And that's exactly what our members achieve. And that's why they say the AXIOM is: Mind-blowing. Game changing. Revolutionary.

Check it out ...

Here at RotarySwing, talk is cheap and the proof is always in the pudding. Come see the massive transformations we can achieve together in your swing.

See for yourself ...

From beginner to pro, we have what you need to get you where you want to go.

See how inside ...

RotarySwing was founded out of frustration with the current state of golf instruction. Quinton knew a better way had to exist to learn this game we all love.

Learn more ...