Golf Setup & Posture

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Golf posture is one of the most overlooked critical aspects of the golf swing, but one of the easiest places to make big improvements! This golf instruction video shows you how to develop a proper golf setup for increased power and reduced chance of injury in the golf swing.

  • Many golfers round their necks or shoulders forward at setup - this is incorrect
  • Hinge from the hips at setup, rather than bending at the waist
  • Roll your ankles slightly inward and outward to find the balance point where your weight is centered
  • Rock forward and back to find the balance point where your weight is over the center of your ankles


Golf Posture

The correct golf setup and golf posture will increase your shoulder turn and reduce back pain! Every golfer wonders to himself why he doesn't look the same at address as Tiger Woods or other greats. After all, they are just standing still, right? It seems that if nowhere else, that is the ONE place in the swing where everyone can be just like Tiger! However, there has been a lot of confusing information in the golf world that has lead to the incorrect belief that there is no one way to setup to the golf ball and everyone's golf posture should look different. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Proper Golf Setup

The golf setup position is a relatively static position in the golf swing compared to others, but that doesn't mean it's not important to a proper golf swing. In fact, a poor golf posture is equally detrimental to your golf swing as a bad golf takeaway.

The good news is that with our golf posture drills in this instruction video, you can get a golf posture that looks like the pros every single time. Just setting up to the golf ball correctly will help ensure that your body can rotate properly during the golf swing and help you create more power with less effort and less chance of a golf swing injury.

Setup in the golf swing is one of the most underrated, critically important parts and fundamentals of the golf swing. The reason it's so important is because your setup of your spine angle of your pelvis really determines swing plane and path in a large degree.

                When you set up incorrectly or the way most every single golfer on the planet does with not enough axis tilt getting the right side on top of the club at address, you're going to put yourself in the position where you're going to want to reverse pivot, which is this move I'll talk about more in a second, you're going to have a terrible swing plane that's going to tend to be over the top and hit this big, nasty banana pull slice which isn't any fun, it doesn't go anywhere, and every golfer's the dread of, bane of their existence. You're also going to put yourself at risk for injury.

                With rotary swing, what we're talking about is we look at the setup from stacking your joints to put everything in neutral so that we can have a full range of motion with our body rotation and a proper swing plane and path so the ball goes where we want it to.

                Let's talk about setup here. One thing that we're going to talk about, I've talked about stance within the other videos about how wide your stance should be. You should be familiar with that now, it's very important that you set up with a proper stance wide, otherwise your head's going to be moving all over the place, and you're going to have a really hard time shifting your weight, which is critical in the swing. But one of the big things I want to talk about here is the axis tilt, and I talk about axis tilt in some other videos but I want to be specific about it here.

                The axis tilt is the angle that you set your spine at address. When you set up, what most golfers do is they set up with their spine very vertical, so if I'm putting the club through my belly button and my sternum here, and they set up this way, and they get their right arm on top of the club, and so they look like this at address with a really weak right hand. What this is going to do with his vertical spine, as you start going back, your hips are going to start going this way, and your upper body is going to start going this way, and you're going to have the dreaded reverse pivot. It's all because of axis tilt at setup.

                To get proper axis tilt, stand straight up, take the club, put it across your sternum and your belly button and slide your hips to the left until the club hits you in the leg. As I do this, now I have axis tilt. What that's going to allow me to do is as I shift to the right going back, I'm still going to be able to have tilt away from the target at the top of my swing instead of this dreaded reverse pivot move. This isn't a very powerful position to be in, obviously. You want to be loaded up behind the ball, and you have to have axis tilt in order for you to do that. Really, really important that you focus on just this simple little lateral movement to get your hips to move forward to put your spine in the proper position at address.

                One of the the big things that we're trying to do with Rotary Swing is keep your spine in neutral joint alignment as much as as humanly possible to prevent golf swing injuries. There's a lot of force on your spine in the golf swing, and we want to make sure that you never get injured. To do that, you need to make sure that your spine stays in neutral as much as possible, but we see this kind of stuff all the time where people got this big curve on their spine and they have no axis tilt, and then as you start swinging back, you create this kind of crazy motion and putting all this terrible, terrible torque and force on your spine. We want to make sure you stay in neutral so it's really important that you have, as you create this axis tilt, that you just let your hip slide laterally, let this hip drop down a little bit, your pelvis is going to tilt a little bit, and that's keeping your spine in neutral.

                Another big key that we want to talk about with keeping your spine in neutral is what it looks like from down the line. As I'm doing this, obviously it's really easy for me to be in neutral joint alignment. You can think about just somebody had a string attached to the top of your head, and they just kind of pull you up. In your nice, neutral posture, you can be like this all day, your vertebrae on perfect alignment and so it's very easy for you to make a full turn. Every golfer can make a full shoulder turn. I promise you, when your spine is in neutral and you move from the correct place, so it's really easy for me to turn and talk to the camera here with my chest turned 90 degrees.

                Now as soon as I do this, which is what most people do to get the club, they roll their shoulders forward, they kind of hunch forward like this, and they set up like this. Well now, to try and talk to you is really hard, and I'm having a hard time, and it feels really uncomfortable because I've taken my spine to of neutral. As you do that, you start losing rotational mobility in your spine.

                Each vertebrae that you have only has about a degree, degree and a half of rotation, so in order to make a full, which is going to be a 45 degree turn in relationship to your hips, a full 45 turn, you need every single little bit of rotation from every vertebrae up the chain. But when you start taking them and you round them over, these facet joints get locked a little bit, and so they lose rotational mobility. All of a sudden, you can't make a full shoulder turn anymore because you've rounded your shoulders forward and now all of a sudden, it's really hard to make any rotation

                You can feel this for yourself if you're sitting in a chair watching these videos right now, just roll your shoulders really far forward, roll forward from the waist, and try and turn back and forth, and then stand up nice and tall and then turn. All of a sudden, a miracle, you got 20, 30 degrees more rotation. Obviously it's not a miracle, you just need to keep your joints in neutral so as you set up to the ball, make sure that you feel nice and tall, your spine is in neutral, and as you hinge forward, you hinge from the hip socket, not from your waist, because again, that's going to take your spine out of neutral.

                What you're going to do is focus on hinging forward from your hips, and as you do that, in order to keep your balance, your weight, just keep it stacked over your ankles which we're going to talk about next, your hips are going to move back as your body moves forward as a counter balance. Now, I've kept my spine in neutral. Head's back, shoulder's are back, and as I reach for the club, I don't want to roll my shoulders forward all of a sudden. I'm going to keep my spine in neutral, hinge forward, grab the club. Now, I've got my spine in neutral, we're going to focus on where all the club and all that stuff is in a second, but now I have ability to make a nice, full turn because I've kept my spine in neutral, which is critical, and I have axis tilt which is going to prevent the dreaded reverse pivot move.

                Now, I'm going to talk about one of the most fundamentals of setup, and it's one of the most misconstrued pieces of advice that causes more injuries in the golf swing than any other piece of advice, and that's where should your weight be at setup? That is a critical piece that RST argues with where people think it should be because the most common taught way where your weight distribution is at address is to be on the balls of your feet. Nothing could be further from the truth. That's the last place you want to set up, is to be way forward on your toes. Why is that?

                Well, when you do that, as you go back, the tendency is going to be for you to move your weight further on your toes, and then your primary balancing joint becomes your knee instead of your hip socket where you can load your glutes and your hamstrings properly. Now, you're going to feel it all in your quads. You can get away with that, that's not the worst thing in the world. It's not ideal, but it's not the worst thing in the world. But where stuff really starts becoming a problem is in the downswing.

                When you keep your weight on the ball of your foot, I want you to do this now if you're watching this video, stand up, put all of the weight on the ball of your foot, and now try and rotate your hip like you would in the golf swing. You're going to feel really quickly with the weight on the ball of your foot and trying to rotate on this leg, that your knee, all of a sudden, has a very uncomfortable feeling in it, and if you've got knee problems, it's going to hurt. This is how a lot of golfers get injured, is that they have the weight on the ball of their foot at impact, and they're trying to rotate on their knee. Instead, we want to move your weight back to your ankle, and rotate now, and now your primary balancing joint is your hip socket, and you can do this all day long, pain-free, as long as you're in neutral joint alignment.

                At setup, if you're setting up way on the balls of your feet, it takes a lot more work to then move your weight back to your ankle and back to your ankle in the downswing, so we start you out there. You're going to start ... we kind of use a range here between your ankle and the middle of your foot is about where your weight needs to be at setup. We don't ever want it up here, and then as you go back, your weight's going to move back to the ankle a little bit further, and then the downswing, it's going to move kind of the middle your foot and then back over the ankle again so that you can protect your knee and your hip and rotate properly.

                So at setup, you want to be in the middle range there, you never want to be on the balls of your feet unless you want to blow out your knee, or you're really good at moving your weight efficiently and can move your weight all the way back to your ankle. That's what you see a lot of tour pros do, is they will set up on the balls of their feet, but they won't be there at impact, and if they are, they won't be there very long because they're going to injure their knee.

                Make sure that as you set up correctly, you feel like your weight is stacked just like you would in neutral joint alignment standing up, talking to somebody. You don't stand to talk to somebody on the balls of your feet, that's off-balance. Again, remember that you got all of the force of this club moving out this way in the downswing, and a driver swung by, you know, somebody with some reasonable club head speed, effectively weighs about 100 lbs through impact. You've got, imagine 100 lbs of force pulling you this way. Well, if you're on the balls of your feet, what are you going to do? You're going to have a tendency to fall forward, right? We've all seen that movement at the driving range, right? It's one of my favorite ones to watch.

                So, you're trying to actually move back this way to fight all of the force of the club moving that way, and as you're doing that, you're moving further back on to your ankle in the downswing. At setup, we want to start there. So we're going to be nice and neutral, you could draw a straight line from the center of my ear, center of my shoulder, back on my elbows, center of my hip socket, back of my knee, center of my ankle. That's neutral, and as I set up, I want to make sure that I maintain that, so as you bend forward, you're likely, wait a second, I'm moving on to the balls of my feet as I move forward because I got all this mass bending this way.

                In order to counterbalance your upper body hinging forward to get down to the ball on the ground, your hips have to then go back. As I do this, they work together. I'm hinging forward, my hips go back, I relax my knees, I'm in a nice, powerful, balanced, anchored setup position. I don't feel like I'm going to fall over. I don't feel like you could come and knock me over this way either. I'm balanced. That's critical at setup.

                The last thing we're going to talk about is ball position. Where should the ball be at setup? Simplest way to think about it? Left ear, logo on your shirt, just inside your armpit. It's going to be just forward of your stance, further out than most people want to put it, but it's gotta be up here because again, the lead side of your body is the primary controller in the golf swing, so if you have the ball way back here, you're going to have a tendency to not shift your weight, you're going to be very right-side dominant.

                So, ball position is going to be up off your left ear, and now if we set up with axis tilt balanced over our ankles, right arm just comes underneath relatively passive, it's in a weaker position than the lead arm, and we talked about stance width in the other videos so we've got a little nice, neutral stance width based on our pelvis width. Now, we have a tour pro set up every time, and that's going to give you the best chance to make the best golf swing possible, injury-free, powerfully, and efficiently.

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Jeff
Craig, I just watched the "How to Shallow" the club and it sounds spot on to what I'm doing. I'm going to try this today and I hope for improvement. My only question is that it increases my Lag, correct? My arms are not nearly as high. Can't wait to try. Thanks for the recommendation.
March 1, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No problem Jeff. Glad you found it helpful. Yes. It will increase your lag and probably not a bad thing with the swing right now.
March 1, 2024
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Jeff
Craig, I shallowed my club yesterday and what a difference! Shots were going just as far and most of them went straight. Similar to the video I watched, it was very difficult to maneuver a full, high back swing without almost covering my mouth with my lead arm. Shallowing is so much easier and the lead arm stays straighter. I was also able to eliminate the choking up of the clubs. I think shallowing should be highlighted more on your site and have its own separate video. It's the best kept secret. I'm hoping for continued success with this new swing. Thanks so much.
March 2, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great Jeff. Happy to help and love reading that you saw the improved ball flight. Stick to the process more quality and consistent shots ahead for you!
March 2, 2024
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Jeff
What are your thoughts of choking up on the clubs? I have been hitting the ball off the tee pretty well but the ball goes either straight left or straight right. Not down the middle. It is frustrating. Yesterday, I tried choking up and the ball seemed to go pretty straight with a slight slice. Also Tee height is a question. Sometimes, I will get under the ball and scuff the turf and/or hit a high fly ball about 50 yards. Any video links for assistance will be helpful. Thanks.
February 29, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeff. You may choke up if you want for control purposes. You will lose a bit of free speed but not much. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video for all thing tee position. However, it sounds like you are getting steep/casting from the top with your strike. I would focus on shallowing out the club and less thumb push. Axiom Lag, How to Shallow the Club for starters would be videos that may help.
February 29, 2024
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Steve
At setup I am having issue getting comfortable where I dont reverse pivot in a backswing. I feel I have the tilt right and the hips moved left, but when I setup I am not sure how my shoulders should be. The shoulders can move independently and can move up or down or middle or rolled forward or rolled back. How are each of your shoulders at setup? Freezing you in this video to me it looks like your left shoulder is rolled back and up and your right shoulder is down and rolled forward.Basically i AM looking at where each shoulder should be at setup? People say pull your shoulders back but they still can be rolled forward or rolled back even if you pull them back. plus each shoulder can move up and down.
January 24, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steve. They are retracted but not restrained. If you retract the blades too much you can't rotate with the scapula. Both blades are pretty balanced at setup. I would take a look Connect to Your Core - Get in the Box Video.
January 24, 2024
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Steve
where is that video I search on it and nothing comes up
January 25, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steve. If you just type Connect to Your Core it will populate first in search. Or, just type Connect and scroll down about 5 videos.
January 25, 2024
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Steve
thanks one other question at setup where should your shoulders be at setup as far as alignment with your hips and knees and feet? In other words when in setup and you draw a line from your shoulders down to your feet where should they be? Should your shoulders be in line with your hips or knees or where on the feet? Should they be a little in front of your hips? just trying to get a good idea from top to bottom how things should line up if you again draw a line from the tip of your shoulders at setup to the ground,
February 15, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steve. Take a look at How Far to Stand from the Golf Ball Video. I think it will give a better representation. You want the shoulder socket inline with the elbow socket. I don't really use my feet/hips as a refence point.
February 15, 2024
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Shaun
Hello! Just started phase one. I'm getting a little lower back tension from hinging at the hips. Def could be me just being older and bad posture. Could I be hinging too much? Is there a setup to accommodate ppl with back issues?
January 6, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shaun. Hinging from the hips should keep the spine in a more neutral position. Sounds like you may be rounding in your thoracic or lumbar area. Over hinging may cause pain but would need to be excessive. Also, check to make sure your weight isn't staying on your heels when adding the knee bend after hinge.
January 8, 2024
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Shaun
Ok ty! Will do. It did transfer more to my upper back tightening a little. How can I tell if I'm rounding at all?
January 8, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shaun. You can put a club going from head to lumbar spine. Keeping both points inline. Or, look on video and see if there is a hump in thoracic. You may need to retract shoulder blades. Take a look at Get in Box Video.
January 8, 2024
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Venkatesh
Hello At setup with the driver, is there a rule of thumb to address the ball at the heel, center vs. the toe? For example if I hit the ball more at the toe, setup at the heel for a center strike and vice-versa? Thanks. Venkatesh
June 28, 2023
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Venkatesh. You could change the placement. But, band aid fixes quickly wear off. I would recommend figuring out why you are missing the center of the face.
June 29, 2023
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John
Axis tilt is putting too much pressure on front foot difficult to move to back foot. Ideas?
June 14, 2023
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You could be overdoing the movement and not stabilizing the weight back to 50/50. Take a look at Common Setup Faults and Fixes Video.
June 15, 2023
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John
For the last 3 swing reviews I cannot seem to get the posture correctly- always seems like too much knee flex and instructor says I look like he can knock me over easily. However when I try to align my hip joint over my ankle, and bend over it seems like I am really unstable and can easily mover toward my toes when I swing--resulting in shots going at 45 degrees right! I wear orthodics in my shoes so the arch support may be causing me to be unstable?? I just don't feel like I am in balance with less knee flex posture. Thanks for your answer!
July 18, 2022
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. It may be due to the orthodics. I have a hard time shifting correctly when they are in my golf shoes. Numbs the feel in my feet and provides too much stabilization. Excessive knee bend can feel more stable, but immobilize your ability to transfer weight.
July 18, 2022
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Jeren
At setup, does the clubhead (i.e., the heel, sole, and toe--if I have my terms right) sit flat on the ground or is the toe slightly off the ground? When I look at pros' setups, especially with the driver, I can see daylight under the toe of the club...I think. I've read an explanation that the force of the swing brings the toe flat at impact. Is the answer here the same for irons and drivers? Thanks.
July 12, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeren. You are correct in what you are seeing with the pros. The toe will sit slightly up due to the fact you will be uncocking the wrists into impact and at full ulnar deviation the hands will be slightly higher to sole the club. It will be with irons and woods.
July 12, 2021
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Gerard
Is there a recommended angle between the spine line and the hip-to -knee line at set up. Essentially, how much forward bend do we want?
June 26, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gerard. Hinge will be predicated on the length of club. You will have less hinge with a longer club. Not massive variations. But, there isn't one set degree of hinge for the whole bag. Take a look at Dustin Johnson - Setup for consistency Video. It will give you some added reference points.
June 26, 2021
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Eric
Being on RST for 3 years and learning I always knew my biggest issue was my posture. Rounded shoulders and thoracic area. I blamed this on being a desk jockey for 25+ years. I did posture exercises with bands. My bad posture stopped my from rotating properly and I got stuck in a partial rotation with a flying elbow because my hands and arms had to finish the backswing. What I was doing was bending my neck and hanging my head at the start of my address which rounds the shoulders and promoted rounding the back and bending from the waist. I always wondered why my chin always buried into my shoulder on the backswing I was reading an RST article and the suggestion was get in good posture (shrug shoulders up to your ears - which didn’t help with rounded neck) and then lift chin and bend forward from the hips until the ball comes into vision (vs bending from the neck to see the ball). It works amazing and in such good posture all the things I have been studying now work so well - weight shift, right side rotation, squat to square. Just thought I’d pass this along it has been a transformative lesson!
May 18, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Thanks. Hinging in the prayer position until the ball comes into vision and planting your seed is a great way not to bury chin in chest.
May 18, 2021
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Eric
The head being pulled up on a string seems like a very subtle nuance to the set up. I love the 5 Minutes to Proper Stance, but I didn't get that there. I feel like even when I shrug my shoulders up, etc., on the top of my backswing my chin is smashed into my left shoulder. I've tried lifting my chin at address, but I think it is posture? When I feel like my head and body is held up by a string (neutral posture) and I try to maintain it, I am taller at address and I don't smash my chin. I think even when I was focused on my posture, I still round a bit from my thoracic area and I kind of smash or compress my pelvis, which leads to poor torso and hip rotation? Does this make sense? The "puppet on a string" is really a good visual!
May 14, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. It would make sense that you were still a little rounded and getting jammed up with the lead shoulder. Focus on the "puppeteer" and make sure you aren't pushing with the lead shoulder in the backswing.
May 14, 2021
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larry
When using the driver should hands be out in front of the club?
March 21, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Larry. Typically, you want to shy away from that much forward press. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video and Driver Setup Adjustments Video for more info.
March 22, 2021
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David
What is the idea weight percentage distribution .... left and right ... at address?
February 26, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. 50/50. A few percentage points one way or another won't get you yelled at.
February 26, 2021
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Clinton
Hi there Just referencing the ball position as just inside the left ear. Can this be applied to all clubs in the bag? Thanks
February 3, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Clinton. The ball position will be off of the lead ear and will be standard for all clubs. Take a look at Proper Golf Ball Position Video.
February 4, 2021
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Eric
I know posture and weight balance are discussed in many videos. I have found that if I get lazy with rounded back, especially the mid upper back, I get hands and arms, because the spine won’t allow proper torso rotation. And if I am not on the mid part of my foot (say my toes or back on my heels) my hips don’t want to turn and that also leads to an hands and arms swing. Either or both of these lead to the hands and arms taking the club back to a flying elbow top of the backswing vs. elbow down. Does this make sense from a physiological standpoint?
December 16, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Absolutely. You can still have a flying elbow with the posture/weight balance perfect. But, it will be tremendously hard to make the correct swing and not require a fly as a saving move or manipulation for poor starting position.
December 17, 2020
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Chris
Question, the main idea for the weight in the ankles is to have the weight be or move towards the lead heel at impact right? I ask because I’ve had my weight measured on a force plate / swing catalyst. And when my weight is more on my heels at setup I tend to move towards my toes at Impact and vice versa so by that rational since the point is to have weight in my heel side. Would you still recommend me starting with my weight on the heel side if in the swing I tend to move it to the opposite place. I’ve seen several tour pros on force plate and most of them I see the center of mass is fairly nuetral or central, and def not heel side .
December 15, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. The goal is to have the weight centered over the ankle. Most players lately have tended to miss to far towards the heels. You are looking for balance. It may feel a little more centered or neutral for you. You assessment makes sense.
December 15, 2020
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Randy
I'm curious and I haven't seen this addressed in a video--At address, how should the weight be distributed between the front and rear foot? Thanks
November 27, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Randy. Shoot for 50/50 balance with weight over the ankle joints.
November 30, 2020
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James
Craig, as I think you know my health is a bit iffy at the moment and it may be sometime before I up my next review. However, looking at my last review and your comments, I realise my setup is still not quite right. So, have decided that whilst I build up my strength and can’t do golf swings, I would work on getting this setup right. In the capture below I have tried to reduce that knee bend, plus not get so steep with my upper body over the ball. The yellow arrow points to my lead arm at address. You did say you wanted to see a bit of that. Had to roll my sleeve up due to wearing a dark long-sleeved shirt, making it difficult to see on camera. I feel that my knee is over where my shoe laces are and the back of the knee over my ankle. Hope my butt position is correct. Please correct anything you feel I should do. Many thanks.
November 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Setup looks fantastic. You were able to get rid the roundness in the thoracic spine and less trail side dominance. You will be ready to rotate without over using those arms now. Primed when health returns.
November 7, 2020
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James
I have to say it is going to take a little getting used to, as I feel like I am standing like a sentry )-[--< in this setup. I will keep doing this in front of a mirror on a regular basis as it does not tax me, so that when I am ready to start to swing it will feel more natural.
November 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Get that health going in the right direction! We are all behind you. Yes. May take some getting used to. But, you look like a pro!
November 7, 2020
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Sam
Wanted to check two things about the address position please. My head hangs back a lot at set up (noticed this on video - practically over my right foot). I also appear to have too much tilt in my shoulders. When I flatten my shoulder plane a little at address, my head moves forward (obviously) into a much better looking position. I still have axis tilt, just much less of an angle in my shoulders. THis seems like a bit of a light bulb moment to me but just wanted to check that this made sense to you guys before I go with a flatter shoulder tilt (it still tilts) at address? Cheers
November 1, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. Most players end up over cooking axis tilt. The head should barely move if at all. Take a look at Common Setup Faults and Fixes Video.
November 2, 2020
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Sam
Nice one - thanks!
November 2, 2020
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John
When you are in your setup to the ball, where do your left and right elbow point. Meaning should the elbows be pointed towards your body our more down the line?
October 1, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. Elbow pits will be pointed away from you. Not locked out with excessive external rotation. Take a look at Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips and Right Elbow Pit in Golf Backswing Videos.
October 1, 2020
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John
Thanks!
October 1, 2020
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Kenneth
Hey, so unlike most people here, I was recommended RotarySwing as a complete newbie from a friend, and I'm stuck with one question there isn't really a video answering. How important is "type of golfclubs"? I'm in the situation that I still don't have my own set, just borrowing handmedowns, and I need to get fitted. However, I don't really trust my local pro shop (which is why I ended up here). They are very heavy on "super game improvement" type of clubs. Is this really as important as they say, or is it mostly a business push so they can sell another set of clubs a year later? I'm tempted by Callaway Mavrik clubs, but according to the pro shops these are completely unusable for new players...
September 15, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kenneth. The key is to play what is comfortable to you. When looking at game improvement irons you are trying to slap a bandaid on something that is broken. If you correct the swing you should buy what you like. Good feel, visual top line, etc.. You don't want to buy something now that will limit your ability in the future with a better swing.
September 16, 2020
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Neale
HI. I have recently started your program and working on set up. I will send a video of for review once I am established and I think I've got it right. My question is around axis tilt. Yes I understand this and can do it fine however Chuck did a video where he was talking about what he discovered while recently working on his swing. That was at set up to pull the lead hip back a bit. This was to assist with too much bend in the knees. So, at set up do I do both, axis tilt as instructed and add the pull back on the lead hip, or just do the pull back as this does promote tilt?
August 29, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Neale. The pull back can promote the tilt. But, I would add tilt and check just to make sure.
August 30, 2020
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charles
I see pros stand closer to the ball than ams. Should your arms be hanging straight down? And can u stand to close to the ball?
August 29, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Take a look at How Far to Stand from the Golf Ball Video. Hanging from the shoulder socket. Yes. You can stand too close to the ball. Players that do this typically push there hands out in the takeaway.
August 30, 2020
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Eric
I figured out something today. I have a bad habit of setup with my hips pretty open. It tends to freeze my hips and I start my swing by pushing with my left vs. pulling from my right side. I don’t know why I have this bad habit, maybe it is years of setting up right side dominant or a subconscious adjustment from. Years of slicing when I starts the game. I’ve tried to correct it by squaring my hips. I remember someone telling me a good way to square the hips is to feel it in the feet. If my hip is open I feel the weight in the ball of my right foot. When I shift the weight to my right ankle/mid foot, it squares my hip. I hit a lot of good shots doing this. I sometimes find cures that don’t last. What do you think about this? Essentially it puts my in the RST recommended setup with weight in both ankles.
August 22, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. You can technically still have the hips open. But, getting properly balanced over the trail leg will certainly help with getting the hips square.
August 22, 2020
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Eric
I think I found out some key things. (1) I was not hinging enough to the ball, rounding the last couple of inches. Trying to hinge first without the club at address. (2) Tensely adhering my left arm to my left pec vs. letting my left arm hang freely, and (3) even though I do axis tilt, I am putting my right hand on the club correctly, but then I kind of twist it into a weak position, right hand dominance. I need to focus on (1) hinging from the hips with a straight back to the ball, without rounding to the ball, (2) letting my left arm hang relaxed at address, and (3) take my right hand address with axis tilt and swing my right hand from underneath and leave it in its original position, weak vs. dominant. Sound good?
August 21, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Sounds good to me.
August 21, 2020
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Eric
So, I didn’t realize that when I was hinting forward from the hips I was slightly bending my knees (vs keeping them locked). The result is that I lock my spine mobility and rotation and start pushing from the left. I have free mobility and it is easy to pull from the left when I hinge with my legs locked straight. Why is this? It kind of feels like when I hinge with bending knees that my pelvis gets compressed with my lower back making it immobile?
August 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. We do it the locked way because players will tend to get rounded and not hinge from the socket with the knees pre-bent. The squished look. Also, helps attain proper balance.
August 19, 2020
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Eric
Thanks, I spend some time in a mirror last night and I came to this same conclusion, it starts rounding my shoulders. Thank you. I am 6'4" with broad shoulders and I round my shoulders to the ball. I have been a Rotary swing member for years and I always try to work on my posture, especially the shoulder rolling. It locks my vertebrae my resulting rotation and I start pushing from the left to get into a backswing. It is the cause of the periodic over the top pull or slice that costs me later or OB strokes. I'm really excited about this setup, I think it will be game changing. It is a subtle thing, so I think others may not know they are doing it wrong. Thanks again.
August 19, 2020
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James
Further to my last review Craig on setup, I did post a comment on the setup one under Dead Drill but seems to have disappeared, so will comment here. After your review on setup and the lines you drew comparing me with Chuck, I remembered that I have a laser level tool from many years ago to correctly line up shelves, pictures etc. I dug it out and it is working just fine, so set this up lining the vertical laser beam (also has a horizontal beam) in front of my big mirror and lined the beam over the ankle and back of the knee as you pointed out in the review at the 1 min mark, shown in capture below. This was great as I derive the perspective immediately without having to video it and then check it on my PC and drawing lines as the laser beam line was there plainly for me to see as I setup correctly. I also, checked the butt line, chin line etc. and they were all fine. Needless to say I now have my laser beam tool lying handy to check other things live for the future. Hopefully, this comment sticks.
August 18, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Great. You may have the tinniest bit of weight towards the heel, but over all great stuff! You want the ankle joint line going through the back of the knee and not through it.
August 18, 2020
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robert
little confused - axis tilt tilts my left shoulder higher than my right during the take away but on the (dead drill 4) the left shoulder needs to stay lower then the right - do I somehow lower the left shoulder lower than the right while turning to square?
August 11, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. The shoulders even with axis tilt will rotate around the spine. Take a look at Golf Backswing Shoulder Plane Drill. The lead shoulder will stay lower than the trail in transition.
August 12, 2020
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Alan
Hi, I am enjoying working through the videos. I have only been viewing them for 3 days but I am continuing to play golf. How would you suggest I proceed - by incorporating various parts of your material of should I stop playing until I have got to a point where I think I am hitting the ball better using RST? Thank you Alan
August 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alan. Glad you are enjoying the website. The answers you seek will all be answered in this video: Should You Play Golf While Learning Your New Swing?
August 7, 2020
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Charles
Should my hands be in front of the ball at address? I notice Chuck’s hands are not in front.
July 28, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Lead hand in the inside of the lead thigh. Take a look at Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips and Should You Have Forward Press at Setup.
July 28, 2020
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Daniel
I have a question about ball position during setup. Chuck mentions the ball should be positioned-aligned with the inside of left heel which I typically do when hitting a driver. Does the ball position during setup change with club selection (middle of stance with a pitching wedge) or should the ball always be aligned with the inside of left heel regardless of club selection which I believe Jack Nicholas advocated. Thank you Dan McDonald
July 24, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. The ball position will be off the logo/lead ear for all standard stock shots. Specialty shots and the driver can vary a little. For the driver take a look at Proper Tee Height Video.
July 24, 2020
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Craig
Brand new customer. Not even 24 hours. This advice alone on setup, particularly rotating around the lead hip to avoid knee injuries, is worth the cost of 12 months subscription. Chuck, this is comprehensive instruction with exceptional articulated explanations. Over the years I’ve paid for pro lessons, joined the likes of Clement, Malaska, Allen and others, I have enough training aids to justify opening an eBay account and flogging the lot, but I am 100% confident that Rotary Swing is on the money. Looking forward to the next 12 months of unlearning and learning. And practice doesn’t make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect. Awesome stuff.
July 17, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Craig. Great name! Many thanks for the positive comments of our site and information. Looking forward to helping you along the journey to get that pain free effortless swing.
July 18, 2020
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Romer
Hello. A newbie question: is there a downloadable checkpoint list for the dead drill steps?
July 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Romer. Welcome to the club. There isn't a downloadable checklist to the best of my knowledge.
July 13, 2020
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Frank
What should be done to avoid shoulder slump or rolling forward? Should shoulders blades be pulled down and back creating some tension in the sides? Is there another video that address shoulder blades and shoulder slumping? I have some left shoulder pain and noticed pain reduced by improving shoulder blade position at setup.
July 1, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. Take a look at Connecting to Your Core and the Gorilla Grip Video.
July 1, 2020
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Eric
I think posture has been a real source of inconsistency for me. 25 years as a desk jockey. The shoulder rounding sneaks back in when I get tired or less vigilant. I am doing some exercises to fix it, my hands naturally hang like a monkey. Two questions: (1) the best thing is standing straight up is to shrug up and then let shoulders come down. This feels like I am in the box shoulder blade connected to lays, right? (2) in this condition it is almost impossible to get the right hand on the club without axis tilt. Have you seen this before? Even in good posture with axis tilt if I put the left hand on by rotating my right shoulder it gets in a bad right side dominant position. Should I almost swing my right hand up from underneath like the right arm is limp?
June 30, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Shrugging up and then letting the shoulders depress is the best way to get them in the box. Yes, you need axis tilt to get the trail hand on the club. Yep. Take a look at Right Side Dominance at Setup Video. Let the trail hand come from the underneath side to easily place on the club.
July 1, 2020
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Eric
One little issue I learned the hard way. I always started my stance, hinging with the hips by soling the club with my left arm/hand. It always gave me a flexed tense left shoulder pointing my shoulders closed to the right. Setting up in a proper hinged stance with the club loosely in my right hand and when in the stance then setting my left arm/hand hanging relaxed avoids this bad shoulder posture. Starting from the right side is so much easier.
June 26, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Doesn't matter which side you start with for comfort. Just make sure you don't get right side dominant at setup.
June 26, 2020
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Richard
I really like this system for learning the swing. Do you use this for children in the age range of 10 to 13 years od age. Richard
June 16, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Absolutely Richard. We are also building a junior version for the site as we speak.
June 16, 2020
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Mike
How far can I fan my lead foot out? I have a nagging old knee injury and its easier for me if I fan it out for rotation purposes. Is that bad if I do that or will it be ok? I'm on step 3 of the dead drill and its hard to post up and turn if I don't fan my lead foot out more.
June 11, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mike. You can splay your foot if need be. Take a look at Should You Splay Your Feet at Setup Video to find ideal position.
June 11, 2020
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Brian
Great setup video. But I have one question. You talked about proper proper ball position at setup. Why would there not be a ball in the video so we could see just how you are setup to the ball and where your hands actually are setup at address? Should my hands be forward of the ball at setup or a bit behind the ball?
June 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brian. Take a look at Proper Golf Ball Position and Problems Caused by Poor Ball Position Videos. Also, Should You have Forward Press and How Far to Stand from the Golf Ball Videos. All your answers will be there, but provide the visuals you are looking for.
June 7, 2020
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Jason
Same ball position for every club?
July 1, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. All stock/standard shots. You may have some variance with driver and short game as they are specialty shots.
July 1, 2020
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Jonathan
Hello, when bending from the hips to get in setup position what's the check to know you've bent over the right amount?
May 29, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jonathan. I usually tell students hinge until you can see the ball and then slightly relax the knees. Common Setup Faults and Fixes Video.
May 30, 2020
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Michael
I've looked at all of the DTL model swings. Drawing a 90 line from the ankle it looks like that line goes through the hip socket. Not with me. Camera angle? I'm 6'6" and that's the problem? If I try to hinge at the hips and keep the hips over my ankles (knees slightly bent) I fall on my face. See attached pic
May 28, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. You want the center of the ankle joint going through the back of the knee joint. You don't look much off at all.
May 29, 2020
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Joe
Hi there I've worked on all Dead Drills and AM now taking the training wheels off and playing with new elements. So far my hit is much shallower than before and less of a divot. Ball goes a little longer than before, Just worndering if the set up and transition moves are causing the ball to fly much higher than before. Almost all irons are hit solid but not sure I' m comprrssing the ball more than before. All in all I like the program and hopefully will get my handicap lower.
May 27, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joe. Sounds like you are adding loft at impact. Take a look at the Vijay Release Drill and Fix Your Release. Make sure you are getting to proper impact wrist position being controlled by the lead side.
May 28, 2020
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Don
What are the setup changes between iron and driver? I understand that the ball will move forward. I place it at about my armpit. But does everything else stay the same? If so, why doesn't the driver strike the turf before the ball? Also, do we set up and swing fairway woods and hybrids like a driver or an iron? Thanks, Don
May 26, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Don. Take a look at Proper Tee Height Video and Hit Your Fairway Woods Solid Videos. It is all about changing tilt/bottom of your swing arc. They will be much more detailed for your questions.
May 27, 2020
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Kyaw Thet
Hi, When I slide my hip to the left to create proper axis tilt, how should I adjust my weight distribution at set up?
May 22, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kyaw. Weight should counter balance. You should still be roughly 50/50.
May 22, 2020
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Michael
OK brand new member here so please bear with me. I am confused between the website reference to RST vs Dead Drill. If I look at the Dead Drill sequence it consists of 6 steps that are supported by 34 unique drills, however when I view the "rep tracker", t seems to be more focused on the sequencing of steps/drills defined by RST (whatever that is). So two main questions - #1 What is the difference between the DEAD drill and RST; and #2 is there a DEAD Drill specific rep tracker that is not muddled in with the additional RST steps?
May 16, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. DEAD Drill and RST are the same. The DEAD Drill is the newer/more simplified approach. Some players want all the nuts and bolts. Others want simple specific guidance with checkpoints. Everything on the site is going to be based around the DEAD. Use those 6 as the main components for overall swing. I will have to check on the rep tracker info for you.
May 17, 2020
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Lawrence
Guys I was a previous member and recently rejoined and have been watching many of Chuck's videos on Youtube and came across the DEAD Drill. Just watching this video on set-up and axis tilt and club placement (ball position). Does it remain in line with the logo on my shirt for all clubs or does it move back as the clubs get shorter? Larry/San Diego
May 15, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lawrence. The ball position will remain off the logo. Specialty shots will have a little bit of adjustment. But, for example no difference in a 8 iron or 5 iron. Welcome back!
May 16, 2020
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Sonny
Hey guys. When I make the little lateral movement of the hips toward the target, should that move more weight to my front foot at setup? Thanks.
May 8, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sonny. The goal is 50/50. Like a counter balance with the upper half. A few percentage points here, or there I won't argue with you.
May 8, 2020
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Christopher
Hi guys- Should your pelvis be in neutral alignment during address and the backswing (i.e. engaging the core to pull your belly button up thereby pulling the pelvis slightly forward to avoid anterior pelvic tilt)...and then let pelvic anterior slightly increase during the transition? In other words, is a good swing thought....pelvis neutral through backswing, increase pelvic tilt slightly through transition, moving pelvis back to neutral through impact? Keeping in mind that we do not want early extension by pushing from the right side of course.
May 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christopher. I don't like players focusing too much on controlling pelvic tilt throughout the swing. Some of these things are byproducts and there are many more simple triggers and important points to stay aware in a short time during the swing.
May 7, 2020
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Gary C
I am not sure exactly where this question fits in reference to a video so I’ll ask it here. Recently, I went to my local club fitter and had a fitting done. I did this about two months before I got introduced to RST and began working on the RST system. When I got fitted it was determined that my irons needed to be adjusted 1 degree upright for my swing at that time. I was also swinging with all arms and was barely generating enough club head speed to be using regular shafts. The fitter mentioned that my lie angle adjustment likely wouldn’t change much but since I have now made significant changes to my setup, posture and swing and will continue to do so as I complete the RST program should I expect that my lie angle would change and also that my club head speed will increase such that I may need different shafts? I haven’t hit any balls since starting the RST program as I am only through the takeaway but I am curious if the corrections I am making to my swing and setup will mean that I will likely need to be fitted again.
April 4, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. It would be tough to estimate how much from your previous swing is would change. The lie angle may change a hair, but the shafts I would be more concerned with depending on how much more club head speed you gain. If you start to see significant increase in speed the shafts may be too weak.
April 4, 2020
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Malcolm
In the setup, is it acceptable to put your weight on the inside of your ankles?
March 23, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Malcolm. Absolutely. Take a look at Anchor to the Ground Video.
March 24, 2020
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Keith
Would performing the drills in "5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Setup" be the best preparation before starting the DEAD series? I didn't see it named under the Setup reference videos, but remember doing the drills in that video when I went through the RST a couple years ago. If there are newer drills for the setup that you recommend please direct me to them.
March 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Keith. That would be a great kickstart into the DEAD System.
March 2, 2020
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Gerald
I have been incorporating the axis tilt into my swing and it has helped with preventing the dreaded slice with driver. However when I use with irons the ball is going too high and I am losing distance. Any suggestions? Thank
February 25, 2020
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
It's likely that you had a higher release all along and then when you no longer were coming in at a steep angle of attack, the irons were going higher than you're used to when the swing plane has improved. Check your grip and release according to the "golf grip - how to" video and numerous release videos on the site to see if your hands aren't far enough in front of the club head at impact. A swing review can sort that out quickly.
February 26, 2020
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Gary C
I noticed today when looking at myself from the side while doing the setup drill that I seem to be more sticking my butt out rather than actually bending at the hips. Are there other drills or videos I could do to help me drill this specific movement? It seems silly that I am struggling to hinge at the hips...
February 14, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. The butt will have to go back as a counter balance. Try Common Setup Faults and Fixes Video.
February 15, 2020
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Dean
I can not keep a club touching my head and my butt and see the ball without bend half way over. Even in you setup it seems you could not ether when the club is there.
February 9, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dean. Depending on genetics you may need some extra hinge from the hips. Without seeing your move it would be tough to determine the exact cause you may be bending over so much. Take a look at Common Setup Faults and Fixes Video. Make sure when hinging you counter balance with the tush and slightly relax the knees.
February 9, 2020
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Gary C
I am wondering what drills I should be prioritizing as I work through the system? Should I be fcosuing on working through the videos and drills listed in the RST 5 Step column or should I be methodically working through all the drills on the far right column, or focusing on only the Dead drill steps? What are the primary drills versus the ones designed to fix specific problems if they exist in my swing? Some of the videos seem like they are more to help correct a particular problem to allow you to get the core fundamental aspects correct...
February 7, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. I would work through the DEAD Drills and use the videos listed below in each section if you need further help to master the drill. For Ex. If you work on DEAD Drill 1 and struggle with the hip line. Use the Weight Shift Part 2 Video for further discussion on this topic to help master the drill. Use the forum as you guide. I am here to help you find the right cure.
February 7, 2020
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Cliff
Really like this setup video. Helps a lot, thanks. Right at about the 11 minute point in this video Chuck mentions ball position. Although not the point of this video it did spark a question.... bare with me... if as Chuck says that the ball should be positioned off the left ear, doesn’t that equate to being very close to the center of the stance (as determined by the feet)? I ask this because when you apply the hip bump and axis tilt, it makes sense to me that these actions (especially the axis tilt) naturally brings the left ear back to roughly a center point in the stance. I hope this is makes sense to you and you can confirm or offer clarification on ball position.
February 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Cliff. Your head shouldn't be moving too much during axis tilt. Take a look at Common Setup Faults and Fixes Video. It will move some, but not a chunk. I understand the point you are making. I always tell people lead ear/logo of the shirt. You are using more the lead shoulder socket as reference versus the stance. You need the position just behind the socket enough to have a proper downward strike with an iron shot.
February 3, 2020
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H.J.
Regarding neutral joint alignment, does the hip-socket location indications also apply for women?
December 4, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello H.J. Yes, it does.
December 4, 2019
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Fred
I tend to have a straight line from my left arm straight through the club shaft kind of delofting the club is that way too strong
December 3, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fred. Sounds like you have too much lean. Take a look at the Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips Video and Forward Press at Setup Video.
December 4, 2019
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Dennis
At address, if I have the axis tilt done correctly and my weight is still distributed evenly, as I look down will my left knee be slightly ahead of my right knee (for a right handed golfer)?
November 12, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dennis. The knees should still be even. Sounds like you are closing your hips when adding tilt.
November 12, 2019
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Ron
Should your chin be "up" at address?
November 11, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ron. Tucking you chin into your chest will start to curve the cervical spine. This will limit rotational mobility of the spine to achieve full shoulder rotation.
November 11, 2019
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Paul
Hi Just trying to find a tour pro who has the spine angle as advised by Chuck at address, I’ve checked out Brooks, Rory and Adam Scott but not seen any evidence of the angle. Is there a reason they don’t have ?
November 5, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. All players have a varying degree of spine hinge forward due to genetics. But, the cast majority of players have a flat spine and shy away from lordosis.
November 5, 2019
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Paul
Hi. What I meant was the spine tilt by the bump of the hip towards the target line, and why tour pro’s don’t seem to use it.
November 5, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. You may not see them physically add it as part of their routine because they have their setup down. But, below I will post Brooks and Rory. You can see the same axis tilt we promote.
November 5, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Brooks
November 5, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Rory
November 5, 2019
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Dave
Craig, I don't mean to be contrary here, but I wouldn't have drawn the yellow line in either of these images where it was drawn. I would think that the line of the spine is from the middle of the head down to about where the zipper is in front. Yes, there is shoulder tilt, but not much spine tilt at all. I think that the fact that the hips are more or less centered between the feet supports that view of where the spine is. The whole setup looks very neutral here in both cases, but with shoulder tilt to accommodate the right hand being lower than the left. Thanks for your thoughts.
May 9, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Brooks is going to be a little closer than Rory's because you can see he hikes the lead shoulder a bit (This was a quick photoshop job to help the student). Rory is a little closer to neutral. I could move his line back a little. I don't disagree that they both look pretty neutral when compared to the width of stance/hip. But, if they didn't have any tilt. Both of them at the top would look like a reverse pivot.
May 9, 2020
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Dave
Thanks, Craig. To me it looks like the lines you have drawn are perpendicular to their shoulders rather than parallel to the spine. I'm wondering if there might be other examples of pros where there is more spine tilt and shifting forward of the hips away from neutral. Is that something that one might see more in older pros, like on the Champions Tour? They were more in the "reverse C" school, I suspect, and might have looked different at setup than McIlroy and Koepka. Just curious.
May 11, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Yes, the lines aren't perfect to their spine. I don't disagree with your assessment. It was a quick draw to show that players at setup do have their spine leaning away from the target. The Rory one can obviously be adjusted. You might see more of the tilt in older pros. They were in more of the old school reverse C for sure.
May 11, 2020
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Eric
This is a great video, I either missed it or didn’t pay close enough attention when I joined the site years ago. I’’m 6’4” with broad shoulders. I have been a desk jockey for 25 years and when you bring your hands to a key board with broad shoulders you round them, creating bad posture. If I don’t get good non-rounded posture the ball will go pull left or a fade depending on what I do in the downswing. The rounded shoulders just puts your right elbow into a bad plane, flying elbow at the top, also since you can’t rotate in bad posture you finish the swing with your hands and arms. When I would do your shoulder shrug, I think I was still bending to the ball on the balls of my feet. On the down swing if I shift to the left foot on the ball of the foot, i’m dead, usually a push. To the right. I was going to ask you about the shoulder shrug and locking scapula into the last (in the box) to keep it that way. But I will try the body on the string feeling with proper bend keeping weight on center of my feet. When you do this, you absolutely need axis tile to get your right hand on the club (without coming out of neutral position, right?).
October 13, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Yes, you will need axis tilt to get the trail hand on the club. Also, connecting to the core will help you shy away from the rounded posture and use the box muscles more efficiently to rotate.
October 13, 2019
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Eric
Thank you. I broke 40 on the back nine. I focused on the 2 inch outside neutral joint alignment (I just try to line my toes up with the hip bone since the hip joint is 1.5 inches inside the hip bone). I think it works for me because the standard axis tilt works for that stance, but even if I widen my stance an inch, I would have to do more axis tilt to get my right hand on the club without rolling it over and hiking my shoulder. I have wide shoulders and fairly narrow hips, and I was taught all my life to be shoulder width. This is a big game changer for me, hopefully others can learn from!
October 13, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Awesome. And, yes thanks for the post. Other members definitely learn from other students experiences. Shoulder width apart. Big No-No!!
October 14, 2019
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Paul
I notice that some of the pga players grip down on their clubs I get that it is supposed to give more controll but why not just use shorter clubs .A great example is Brooke Henderson who has a 48 in driver but Tripp’s way down on it
October 6, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Feel and control. Some players have more comfort with solely just choking down. Also, choking down versus down clubbing you get to use the same loft you want for flight with the yardage slightly cut off.
October 6, 2019
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Emmanuel
Is this correct?
September 16, 2019
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Emmanuel
Please find both views
September 16, 2019
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Ed
What does 2" outside neutral posture mean. If my Hips are approximately 12" wide from the center of the left hip to center of the right hip do i keep the middle of my feet a total of 4" - 2 Inches per side - wider than the neutral hip posture?
September 12, 2019
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Ed
I just started the boot camp and want to make sure I am reading and interpreting this info correctly.
September 12, 2019
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John
Hi Ed, there is a RST video “Determine your stance width” on the website that should directly answer your question. I hope that helps. (I am one of your fellow Bootcamp students).
September 12, 2019
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Ed
Thx, I found it. It helped answer question. It’s a great site and program.
September 12, 2019
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Paul
How much knee flex is too much
August 29, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. You only need a slight bend. Too much is when your butt starts excessively sitting back, or weight tends to fall towards the toes. You want to be able to draw a line from the center of your ankle joint through the back of the knee joint. Take a look at How Knee Flex Determines Swing Plane Video. Also, Common Setup Faults and Fixes.
August 29, 2019
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Salim
Hi. How do I check if my setup, in particular my alignment, is correct. I have a tendency of closing my stance during my golf game. This happens as I get tired?
August 20, 2019
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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Salim. My understanding. There is no easy answer for you. Make sure that you are aligned correctly by using a alignment stick. Then take your stance. Use camera or mirror to check. The more you do it correctly (3-5k reps) the easier it is to have correct setup during the round.
August 20, 2019
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Jeffrey
Is it OK for my hands to be further away from my body (down the line perspective) as the clubs get longer? I feel tight & restricted with my hands directly under the chin...especiallywwith the driver...
August 9, 2019
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Jeffrey
... This is referring to the hands below the chin recommendation. I feel like when the Clubs get longer, that I tend to get a bit stuck on the release if I keep them 1.5 to 2 fists away from the setup position.. Should I let "width" do its job here? Feels like the longer irons (5÷) need more extension and patience on the downswing.
August 9, 2019
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Nolan
How much flexion do I want at the waist? I’ve been told different things by people in the past. One instructor told me I should feel like my chest is pointing at the ground. Is there a checkpoint to get the appropriate amount of flexion and does it change from wedges to longer irons and driver?
August 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nolan. The longer the club the more you will have to be slightly upright with your posture. However, the best way to gauge is getting the proper distance from the ball. Take a look at How Far to Stand from the Golf Ball. To maintain that correct position you will get slightly taller as the club gets longer.
August 7, 2019
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Bradley
As I’ve incorporated the axis tilt (and moving the weight slightly left) I noticed my hands have moved left. Where should the hands be at address?
July 24, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bradley. Take a look at the Golf Grip Checkpoints Tip Video. Lead hand just on the inside of the lead thigh with the club vertical.
July 24, 2019
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Bradley
I couldn't find it
July 27, 2019
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Bradley
Nevermind. I found it. thanks
July 27, 2019
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Rick
Do you use axis tilt for every club?
July 20, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rick. The amount may vary with driver and short game. But, yes there will be some type of axis tilt with every shot.
July 21, 2019
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David
Hi, love RST.......and have no time to continue with all my old bad swing habits...........should the drills be spaced out over the time period of a month each or can I do as many per day as I can get in to speed up my progress......for instance, I did setup today for 3 different 15 minute periods......and am going to do a fourth now.......Dave
July 15, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. I am glad that you are enjoying the site. The goal would be 100-300 reps per session. You can spread that out over the course of a day. 3000-5000 to master the new movement pattern.
July 15, 2019
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Doug
I struggle with lordosis in the lumbar spine at address. What issues will this present throughout the back swing (outside of the obvious lumbar compression). TIA.
July 14, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Doug. Other than the obvious compression issues. You will tend to have reverse shift with the pelvis. To alleviate pressure the hips may tend to slide towards the target on the backswing and lose the trail hip line. Affecting proper load and sit. Also, the will hurt the ability to achieve proper full shoulder rotation because all of your facet joints in your vertebrae aren't open.
July 15, 2019
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Doug
Can you speak to some good exercises to correct hyperlordosis?
July 18, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Doug. I apologize I don't have too many of those on the site. But, a great drill would be sitting on an exercise ball rocking your pelvis up towards your sternum to help flatten the lumbar spine.
July 18, 2019
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Marco
Hi I'm new to the program and diligently going through the setup repetitions. Wondering to what extent (if any) when leaning (bowing) forward I should execute / allow a pelvic tilt. Thanks
July 14, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marco. The spine needs to remain as flat as possible. You want to shy away from lordosis, or curvature in the lumbar spine area.
July 14, 2019
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James
Patrick, thank you for the swing review. I definitely see the tension in my arms and shoulders, and I have been completing practice reps of proper setup and releasing that tension. What should I be working on next? I’d like to begin stacking setup with other drills. Admittedly, I am incredibly discouraged with my swing. I’ve been using Rotary Swing the last couple of months, and your swing review was a real eye opener. I have put in many hours of practice, but clearly it has been just reinforcing bad habits. I have so much to work on. And the things I have been working on obviously have not been right. I need to go back to the basics. You did not comment on my weight shift in the review, which makes me think I am on the right track at least with that aspect. It seems so simple. I definitely see that my upper body and right side are way too dominant throughout the swing. I feel like I have a long road ahead of me. As I mentioned, I am unbelievably discouraged by my swing and practice. My swing speed with driver is around 105 to 110. Most drives for me carry 250 or so with the occasional 280. I guess the thought that I am achieving that speed with such bad form leaves me to believe that I have lots of room to improve. Of course my consistency and ball flight are not what I want. I feel lost— and beyond simply setup and rudimentary weight shift, I don’t know where to continue working. The videos you recommended are helpful (I have watched them before, but have not been properly implementing that knowledge), but I feel like beyond setup I don’t have enough to work on. Sorry for the pity party, but I definitely would love your input on what to work on and especially how to stay motivated.
July 13, 2019
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Patrick (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi James, focus ONLY on set up and don't deviate. Your brain needs 3-5k reps to ingrain the new set up. If you can't retrain your brain to set up with soft arms for example, proper weight shift will not happen and you will continue to move the club too much with the arms. Don't worry about the other issues, as we will get to them in due time. Reps are everything. Watch the videos that talk about how the brain learns.
July 14, 2019
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James
Right now I am close to 1500 reps with setup only. Do I look like I’m on the right track?
July 18, 2019
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James
Here is down the line.
July 18, 2019
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Patrick (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, looks better. Be sure to get the butt end of the club to point at your belt buckle at address from down the line. Grip pressure of "2" if "10" means your hanging onto a cliff. Relax the arms completely.
July 18, 2019
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James
Thank you, this is helpful. So in saying that I need to drop butt of club to point towards belt buckle, this is to simply guarantee that the arms and shoulders are relaxed? This will naturally cause the toe of the club to elevate a bit, right? I’ll keep doing more reps with this in mind.
July 18, 2019
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Patrick (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, to guarantee the arms are fully relaxed. The toe of the club will be up at address with every club, even when fitted properly. This is because the toe will be closer to the ground upon impact. You just don't want the toe up TOO much, affecting the lie of the club. That is where professional fitting comes in.
July 18, 2019
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Dean
I wear a Zepp while doing reps, and playing. Your videos have helped a lot, but I’m still coming over the top. Even with practice I get the club to 7 or 8 under plane but not my hands no mater what. On the course it’s worse , hands 7 to 8 deg, club 10 to 11 deg. I am hitting the ball much better, though my scores are often 38 front and 43 to 45 on the back. Concentration may be the issue, and I am having some knee pain. 63 years old, but not in terrible shape. Handicap have always been around 8 to 10, but I have a good short game and putt well.
July 6, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dean. Take a look at How to Fix Plane and Path Video to work on staying shallow. Are you having knee pain from working on a particular item in the swing, or just in general? Have you had a swing review to diagnose some of the issues in your swing?
July 7, 2019
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Dean
I can not find that video, is that the exact name ?
July 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dean. How to Fix Swing Plane & Path. I apologize.
July 7, 2019
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Julie
How does my set up look?
June 28, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Julie. I would like to see the stance being a little wider closer to 2 Inches outside of NJA. And, the head a little more balanced with the setup. Instead of cocked a little and over the ball too much.
June 28, 2019
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Julie
O.k. Thank you
June 28, 2019
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Julie
Is my ball placement good? It was too far back and I moved it up and I am striking it much better now.
June 20, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Julie. The ball placement is a little too far forward for an iron. It needs to be off of the lead ear/logo of the shirt. Take a look at Proper Golf Ball Position Video.
June 20, 2019
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Julie
O.k. Thank you
June 20, 2019
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Julie
In my swing and at set up my head is tilted to the left. Is that not good?
June 17, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Julie. Are you playing right handed? Also, after adding axis tilt your head is tilted left? Do you have a a picture of your setup you can post on your reply?
June 17, 2019
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Julie
Yes I am playing right handed and I am adding axis tilt. Here is a picture of my set up.
June 17, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Julie. Ideally, you wouldn't want that much head tilt to the left. You start compressing the facet joints in-between each vertebrae that can cause issues down the road with rotation/strain. Look at the picture below with Adam Scott. Try to find a good balance when adding the tilt. Try the slight adjustment first. Allow you head to react to adding the correct axis tilt. If that doesn't work then there might be some eye dominance issues.
June 17, 2019
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Julie
O.k. Thank you.
June 18, 2019
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M. (Certified RST Instructor)
Good morning! I work on my set up and have a question. I wear multi focus glasses and when I set up properly, keeping my head in line with my spine, I cannot see the ball clearly, it is a blur white spot and the lower edge of my classes also covers part of the ball. To get a sharp picture of the ball I have to bend my head down to get to focus spot in my glasses. What is best to do in this case? Thanks for helping!
June 11, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marcel. Many players struggle with this situation. Sadly, you don't want to start rounding at the neck. So, you have to use different glasses or trust that little blur is the ball. However, sometimes I do see it is that players haven't hinged enough forward from the hips which is limiting their ability to see the ball.
June 11, 2019
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M. (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Graig, this is about my normal hinge in set up.
June 11, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marcel. Your hinge looks normal, but your rear end looks a hair too far out. I would suggest standing straight up and down. Hinging from the hips keeping the legs straight and letting the weight fall to your heels as you hinge forward (counter-balance). Then, slightly relaxing at the knees to get balanced over the ankle joints.
June 11, 2019
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Phillip
Guys, I am astonished! I'm only on the set up lesson and I've only made ONE change so far. I played a few holes last night to practise it and I finished with a tough par 5. I hit a sweet driver down the middle to a tight landing area, 20 yards past where I'd normally be. It opened up the dog leg for me to hit a good 4 wood again down the fair way. From there I hit a glorious 8 iron pin high and sank the birdie putt. I NEVER par this hole, never mind birdie it! Incredible! Can't wait to do the rest of the course!!
May 20, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Philip. Awesome! Thanks for the post. Love hearing the good news. Let's keep the momentum moving forward.
May 20, 2019
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Nick
Thanks R.J., great advice. I looked at an old video of my swing and I can clearly see in the final stage of my backswing that my left shoulder is forcing my chin away from the target. Looks painful! That’s where the stiffness is coming from.
May 1, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
You're welcome. I have my own non-golf related neck stiffness so I feel your pain. Feel better.
May 1, 2019
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Nick
R.J. Just doing the club down the back drill for posture. You say it should stay in contact at 3 points as you tip forward from the hips: tailbone, middle of the back and the back of the head. In the 2 down the line examples on the site (Chuck and Justin Rose I think) the back of their heads seem to be below that line, not on it. Could you help me out please?
May 1, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
The middle your back between your shoulder blades, yes. No one is perfect on every swing, but allowing the chin to drop in the stance typically leads to your head to tilting towards the target in the backswing, leading to a reverse pivot because the left shoulder doesn't have sufficient space to pass under the chin in the backswing. Also, this can lead to neck pain over time.
May 1, 2019
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Nick
R.J. thanks for the very thorough analysis of my setup. Four things to work on. I had been getting a little neck stiffness doing the drills. Could this have been caused by my poor spine position?
April 30, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
It can be, yes. Or if you're not used to being in good posture, you may experience muscle aches until you get used to being in good posture. It should never be excruciating though.
May 1, 2019
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Jim
Hi Rj - On the spine drill with the club, I found I can just tuck the club at the grip end in to my pants at the back and it stays in place. That worked, so no need to mess with bungee cords or anything. Best, Jim
April 18, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
That's certainly a different way of doing it! Lol. As long as it gives you a nice flat back in your posture so we keep your spine protected and able to rotate freely, I am not concerned much with what method was used to make it happen. I am only concerned with keeping you safe and rotating freely.
April 18, 2019
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Jim
Hi RJ - As always, thanks for your encouragement. Will be starting to work on the "in the chair" rotation drills this weekend, in addition to standing in front of my mirror and doing the "straight back/club shaft" set up drill. Best, Jim
April 19, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Sounds like a plan
April 19, 2019
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Roger
The only problem J have, is the axis tilt. Ever time I attempt to hit a ball, I top it, or blade it. It seems I can’t reach the ball with an axis tilt. I align my ball off of my left ear. After four decades of not having tilt, I can’t figure out my problem.
April 6, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Roger. Take a look at Moving the Fulcrum Video. I would imagine after adding tilt. You are lacking weight transfer to the lead side, and you are lifting/bailing out with the lead shoulder with excessive secondary tilt on the downswing causing the top/blade.
April 6, 2019
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Henrique
I know you have been asked a thousand times for this question, but here it comes once more. If you are moving your left shoulder in the downswing, do you stop it at release? How? Do you push backwards with the left leg or just upwards?
March 25, 2019
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Dean
Hey Henrique, the lateral movement to the lead side is finished once you have pulled your weight over into your lead heel/glute. You just stop pulling the weight over to stop the lateral shift once you have moved a few inches and then the lead leg will straighten upwards which will move your butt back and tush line is maintained. The pull can be overdone and as long as your head is just behind the golf ball and your lead side is stacked you are in the correct position.
March 25, 2019
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Paul
Hi, can shoulders that are rounded at address, especially the right one, cause an overswing at the top, as it seems to continue once the body has stopped at the top of backswing ? Mines seems to open to the sky at the top. Thanks.
March 9, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Yes, when you round the shoulders you tend to disengage from the core/body. This will give freedom for the arms to over swing. Take a look at the 3 Functions of the Right Arm, Right Side Dominance at Setup, and Stop Overswinging.
March 9, 2019
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David
I am a new member to your program, but I have been following your training and advice. While practicing today I became curious about the best way to grip the club. In the past I gripped it with the handle pressing against the heel below the little finger of my left hand. But then I experimented with putting the handle in the groove between the two heels and I like that feel better. Unfortunately the weather is not conducive to outdoor practice so I can see the ball flight. What grip pavement do you recommend for my indoor practice?
February 27, 2019
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Dean
Hey David and welcome aboard! The RST recommended method for the grip is located in "The Golf Grip - How To" video. They prefer a slightly stronger grip than neutral if memory serves me correctly. Type or paste it into the video search window.
February 27, 2019
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Lennart
Hi, At set up and during the swing your arms and hands should be relaxed. What about the rest of your body? Should you start firing the core and leg muscles before you start the swing like a weightlifter or be totally relaxed at setup and start firing during the swing ? Best Lennart
February 26, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lennart. You should be relaxed, so the muscles can engage and work. You really won't have an explosive fire until the post up. Core and legs engaged throughout. But, not overly tense and locked.
February 26, 2019
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john
I don't comment on stuff like this much. I've watched a bunch of the videos and I'm learning. I wanted to post a comment on this video because I did the test. I turned while standing straight up and then turned while in my "posture". I couldn't turn because of bunched shoulders. I tested turning straight up then hinging and turning and it was unreal how much easier the golf swing is with that mobility. That's all. I'll post up more as I have more questions, just joined the online school. I played tennis in college so I've always been fast with my hands. But not hunching my shoulders moved me from around 104-105 with driver to 111.8 today. So its not just the throw drill, etc.. that can add a lot of speed. Relaxing shoulders and making sure that turn isn't restricted in bending down to the golf ball is brilliant. It is a very free feeling to be able to turn back with no effort.
February 18, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. Great. Yes, it is vital for the upper half-shoulders to be relaxed. It allows for a better turn and more core engagement (proper muscle recruitment). Take a look at Proper Muscle Activation. Love hearing the good news.
February 19, 2019
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Jeff
How much should the chin be down or up at setup? I find from down the line view that my chin is too down stuck into neck or top of chest. If I move it up a little then I’m looking at the ball out of bottom of my eyes. Do I need more spine angle/bend at the waist?
February 14, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Great observation, Jeff! yes, you do need more hinge from the hips providing that you're only relaxing your knees. If you're bending your knees too much, this could also cause you to be more upright, even if you do have sufficient hip hinge. When you're getting into your stance, you want that nice military type posture where your shoulders are rolled back and head is up at attention. And then we simply hinge from the hips until we can see the ball without dropping our chin. This should also allow our arms to hang down directly from our shoulder joints as well, nice and relaxed, while still in the box.
February 15, 2019
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Jeff
Thanks RJ. What is your best video that addresses this aspect?
February 15, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
How Knee Flex Determines Swing Plane and Hinging From the Hip
February 15, 2019
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Jeff
Thanks! One more question - your trail hand should be just inside your chin line at address from down the line view - correct?
February 15, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Ideally, yes, however, if you have significantly longer arms, like many NBA players or someone who has a long neck, or vice versa, this may be a little off. So, as long as you're hinging from the hips without dropping your chin to see the ball, your arms should be able to hang freely from the shoulder joints and be right in alignment with where you need to be.
February 17, 2019
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Dean
Swing analyzer with Chuck.
February 15, 2019
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks for the image.
February 17, 2019
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Dave
So when I watch your axis-tilt - it looks like your weight is shifted to right side. When I do this I feel like the weight is 70-80% on my right side. Do I want that?
February 14, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. After Axis Tilt the weight should still be 50/50. Sounds like you are getting too much. Take a look at Common Golf Setup Faults and Fixes.
February 14, 2019
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Stephen
I suffer from Knock Knee, also known as Genu Valgum, which is causing me to have difficulty to smoothly and consistently get into neutral joint alignments (at least, that’s my excuse). How does having that condition affect my setup? Should I force my trail knee outwards over my ankle, or leave it stuck way inside. Likewise, what compensations (if any) should I be making with lead knee? Players with bowed legs may find similar information useful. Thank you.
February 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. I don't like players to force things that go against their genetics unless it is truly detrimental. However, I would still see if you can get a little bit of lead knee external rotation in the downswing (Fixing Your Weight Transfer Video). But, for now your miss will typically be just inside neutral alignment.
February 8, 2019
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Kirk
The course that I usually play has a lot of undulation and elevated greens so a lot of uphill downhill lies not to mention side hill lies as far as uphill and downhill lies go do you still use the axis tilt as mentioned in setup
February 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kirk. Yes, you will still have axis tilt. Go to the Video Menu --> Specialty Shots --> Uphill and Downhill Lies. Chris will explain to you the axis tilt aspects.
February 8, 2019
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Kirk
Thanks I will go and check that I’m thinking that set your shoulders to match fairway angle and then go through set up
February 8, 2019
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Peter
I am really struggling to get my hands under my chin line. I already feel like i am bent over an uncomfortable amount and feel unnatural to extend my arms to reach the ball. I feel like my clubs are too short for me, but that is unlikely the case as these are standard length and I am 6 feet tall. Any tips?
February 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. It looks like you elbow pits are inside your shoulder joint line. I wouldn't suggest bending over more, but moving the arms slightly out to hit the position. Upload a picture of the same setup, but with the arms a little more out so the trail hand matches the chin line. It could be a case of the setup being so new that uncomfortable is where you need to be.
February 7, 2019
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Dave
Hi. Just joined several days ago. I already flunked the course on axis-tilt. 45 years of playing wrong is tough to change. I will submit a video very soon as I want to track improvements as work my way through the training.
February 6, 2019
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Dean
Fellow member welcoming you aboard Dave! Yes, it is tough but change is coming my friend. Just give into the process and be patient with it and dramatic changes are in store for you. I can personally attest to that and results matter. RST delivers the goods.
February 6, 2019
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Dave
Thanks Dean!
February 7, 2019
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Timothy
I have a general question on posture position based on club length. Should the posture get slightly more upright as you move to the longer clubs in the bag? Keeping ball position the same (off the left ear), will my 5 iron be a more upright posture then my pitching wedge or does my posture angle stay the same but my distance from the ball change - or both?
January 28, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Timothy. The longer the club your posture will get slightly taller.
January 29, 2019
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Timothy
Craig - thank you for the reply. I appreciate it. If there is a video on the posture variations you can send over? If not, it may be something to cover - showing a sand wedge, 8 iron, 5 iron, hybrid and driver. I think it would be a great reference to have. I have only found one video elsewhere that just touches on it. Thank you again!!
January 29, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Timothy. No problem. And, thanks for the suggestion. There won't be massive differences between clubs. Slight.
January 29, 2019
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Chris
In doing lot of set up reps, I’m feeling a little robotic and rigid standing over the ball- any suggestions to loosen up and remove the tension?
January 8, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. At first it will feel that way. The more you practice the tension will subside. Also, take a look at Proper Muscle Activation Video. Doesn't cover the exact question. But, you will get the gist of what we are trying to accomplish.
January 9, 2019
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Ronald
What are you looking for in the first video review? Do you want to see the entire drill or just photo of the setup?
January 7, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronald. Either will do. Nevertheless, I would suggest sending in your attempt at a perfect setup and swing. This way we can check the setup and get a baseline for your specific needs in the swing.
January 7, 2019
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Fred
I have lateral scoliosis with my spine curved towards my right shoulder blade and it is also twisted (I am a right handed golfer}. Before starting this program, I am working with a sports specific PT who also plays golf. He is focused on getting me to a normal position by shifting my hips slightly to the right and my shoulders sliding to the left. In this position I am now where a normal golfer would be starting the set-up. When I get to the "axis tilt" part of the set-up, I now slide my hips to the left. What advice do you have for me?
December 23, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fred. I am sorry you have to deal with the spine issue. It would be tough for me to diagnose without seeing. I would either upload a review going through your setup process. Or, submit a picture here of your setup so I can see if we need to make any adjustments.
December 23, 2018
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Kim
How far back should the tush line be if the line was dropped to the floor, in other words distance from the heels to that line? I feel I am exaggerating the bend now as I previously did not have my tush back enough. Thanks.
December 19, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kim. The line will be a little genetic based. There isn't a baseline, or perfect number. The tush should be behind the heels while not exaggerating knee bend, or losing the line from the ankle joint to the back of the knees (Weight Centered Over the Ankles). You can see how to get a good balance of this in the Dustin Johnson - Setup for consistency Video.
December 20, 2018
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Alan
Craig, in the current "on tour" series that Chuck is making; he made a specific comment on the hand position from the down the line view when helping the gentleman from Germany. Can you further explain what he is talking about as this is part of the set up/stance. He mentioned something about we shouldn't see the left hand underneath from this down the line view. Please explain.
December 10, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alan. Take a look at this video. "Right Side Dominance at Setup." If that doesn't clear it up for you. Please let me know and happy to explain further.
December 10, 2018
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Russ
I recently enrolled and submitted my first video review for setup. No comments were provided it simply stated FAIL and referenced "Determining proper stance width". Am I to assume everything else looked OK? It's somewhat unclear as to whether I am to resubmit and if so does it count against the six video reviews included with my enrollment?
December 9, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Russ. We typically don't provide a lot of typed comments. If your review instructor only left stance width as a necessary adjustment. I would make the stance width adjustment and move to working on weight shift combined with your new setup. In the next review try to submit your best effort moving weight correctly in the swing from the proper setup. Too my knowledge, another submittal would go against the 6. If you have any questions please feel free to ask me, or if you have a direct one you want from your instructor. Leave here directing the question towards him and I will make sure he gets it.
December 9, 2018
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Joshua
You guys believe in the ball position for each club being off your left ear? Even though each club is a different length?
November 21, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joshua. There are certain times when the ball position maybe changed with Driver and Short Game. But, for all standard golf shots the ball should be off of the lead ear or logo of the shirt. Yes, even though the length changes the ball position should remain the same. Club length doesn't really have any correlation to ball position.
November 21, 2018
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Alfredo
When I have a dorsal hyperkyphosis my spine I can not put it straight, would there be some kind of advice?
November 20, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alfredo. Flatten your back, or decrease the roundness too the best of your ability. We understand due to genetics and other factors some players may not be able to flatten their spine as much as others.
November 20, 2018
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Marcel
At start: how much tension do you need to have in your glutes, how much do you need to tighten your buttocks? When putting tension in your glutes (buttock) at start seems helping to become more stable.
November 16, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marcel. They should be engaged, but ready to work. If you tense them up too much, or pre-loaded it will affect how you move.
November 16, 2018
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Nolan
Should weight be 50/50 on each leg?
November 13, 2018
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Andrew (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes.
November 14, 2018
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Shinji
I understand from the video that the second axis tilt is important to avoid reverse axis pivot because the hip will not slide to the direction of the backswing. Is my understanding correct? And if you have the second axis tilt, it seems that it becomes difficult to rotate the shoulder perpendicular to the spine because the shoulder rotation becomes flatter in the backswing...or am I mistaken?
November 12, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shinji. Axis tilt is important to help you rotate properly around the spine. Sliding he trail hip in the backswing will cause you to lose the tilt towards the target (Reverse Pivot). Secondary Axis Tilt happens in the downswing to help with your plane.
November 12, 2018
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Nolan
I find that when I set up the proper way based off this video, it seems like the toe of my club head sits off the ground too much. Not sure if it’s because my clubs are too long (I have standard length clubs, I’m 5’7” with the center of my wrist about 31” from the ground). Is it necessary to get fitted for clubs? I wasn’t planning on buying a new set until I improved my game more.
November 12, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Nolan. It isn't necessary to buy new clubs in the initial. However, you might find out from your new setup that the lie angle is off, or you may need to trim the shaft a little. Which shouldn't cost very much.
November 12, 2018
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Robert
When I get to top my hips tend to go forward and become off balance. What am I doing wrong?
November 10, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Work on loading the trail glute properly (Weight Shift Part 2) and stabilize the tush (Chair Drill).
November 10, 2018
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Robert
Where do I find chair drill?
November 10, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Use the search box. Type in Chair Drill. Should be the first video to pop up. (Maintain Tush Line - Chair Drill).
November 10, 2018
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Joseph
How far back should I hinge my hips? Would the club partially dictate the amount? For a particular club, if I hinge too much, the handle of the club will be too low and the club will be sitting on its heel. On the other hand, if I hinge too little, the club will be sitting on its toe. Do I want to hinge just enough to let the club sits on both its heel and toe at setup? Follow up question: If that's true, then the club would affect the setup. Isn't that contradictory to what Chuck says in the video that the club shouldn't affect the setup?
November 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. The club will affect setup slightly. You will have to be slightly taller for a driver than say a wedge. Not massive changes in degrees. Only slight differences in the hinge forward or spine angle. Most people end up having too long of clubs which forces them into a improper setup. The hinge should be just enough to see the ball, keep the weight over the ankle joints with slight knee bend, and have the club sit correctly. The most common thing I see is the distance from the ball gets too far, or close changing the posture. How Far to Stand from the Ball Video.
November 7, 2018
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Aman
Hello, When does one move onto the next step? Is it after all the reps for the drills are completed? Thanks. Aman
September 15, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Aman. After about 1000 reps you should be pretty proficient at creating a move. You can start to slowly stack new pieces from there because you will still be ingraining the first move. However, if the previous piece starts too falter. You must step back down and continuing repping to not fall back into older habits.
September 15, 2018
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Aman
Thanks!
September 15, 2018
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Jeffrey
Where should my chin be hovering over relative to my feet? Should it be in front of my toes? At my toes or behind? Im 5’8” and given I do everything else correctly at setup what do you recommend?
August 28, 2018
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Howard (Certified RST Instructor)
Good morning Jeffrey. The appropriate amount of bend from the hips will depend on our body shape. You should however be fine having the chin just outside your toes when looking down the line, vertically. Inside the toes likely means we don't have enough bend from the hips, which creates some spacing issues.
August 29, 2018
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Jeffrey
Thank you Howard! I feel that it would be different given the length of the club but how about the bottom of the left hand, as that is the closest part of the hand to the body (i'm right handed). Obviously, it would be hanging down freely and naturally, but should it be hovering over the toes or in front of the toes? given that the setup and the bend from the hips are correct, what is the ideal position of the bottom of the left hand?
August 29, 2018
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Howard (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. The left hand is going to be just inside the toes when viewed down the line. We typically refer to the butt of the club at setup as being about a one and a half "fists" away from the pants, which is essentially the same as what you are asking with regards to the left hand. Another common way to see this is the "chin line" drawn vertically from down the line: if the arms are hanging relaxed below the shoulder, the outermost part of your right hand will touch the line. Notice that for your hands to move outside the chin line, your elbow would no longer be resting in neutral below your shoulder.
August 29, 2018
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Barry
Not sure where to ask this so thought I'd enter it at the beginning of the teaching videos so I can locate it later : Cameras??? I see you recommended Casio 150 and then later Casio EX-ZR100. Both are older cameras and impossible to find used . Can you suggest a comparable Camera available today? I did locate a Casio EX-ZR100 for $100.00 . Some what of a risk used . Any suggestions that work well slow motion play back? I see the Live View Plus at 60 FPS : The Casio Camera is at least 240 FPS Big difference : Thanks : Sorry to post this here
July 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Barry. You are looking for around 240FPS. It is hard to find a quality one these days. The older models were so much better with manual control over the shutter speed. Most newer iPhones, Androids, iPads, etc. Have high speed capability. I actually teach with a newer iPad that I can set at 240FPS with the proper software and get good results. Also, my Samsung phone can do the same.
July 30, 2018
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Barry
So Craig If I can find an Older Casio I think it's the ZR-100 mentioned in the Swing Analysis section I should have a decent unit. I looked at GO pro 6 but it has issues and some of the other stuff is just a big rip. No need to reply for $100 I'm going to chance it . Guys got perfect feedback with over 5,000 items as seller : Thanks for response.
July 30, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Barry. I used the FC150 for ages. Just tough on the tiny screen without uploading to computer for diagnosis. But, the ZR still has the high frame rate and should work well. I haven't used it personally though. The downfall of the two both would be on the spot diagnosis with a smaller screen.
July 30, 2018
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Curt
For CRAIG: I sent you the wrong videos yesterday. Those were pretty old. My Bad! Can I resubmit, or do I need to wait 2 weeks?
July 17, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Curt. I just received the redo. It will be by the end of the day I get to them.
July 17, 2018
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Jeffrey
With the axis tilt it's changed my setup a big amount as of right now I feel I'm going to either hit it fat or thin or mix of both, I don't feel I'm going to compress the ball as much so I want to make sure the other areas in my setup still apply or not? - is there a video that supports axis tilt while compressing the ball ? - is the club shaft suppose to be straight or a little bit of an angle? - do the knees go inward at setup? - should both arms be fully extended at set up or should the right arm be a little relaxed? - should both feet be slightly flared? Thank you in advance!
July 13, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. The club shaft should be vertical at setup (Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips). You may be over doing the tilt (Common Golf Setup Faults and Fixes). (How to Fix Reverse Pivot) Explains all the reasons you must have axis tilt. Knees are normal and ankle joints rolled in (Anchor to the Ground). Arms should be relaxed and hanging neutrally with trail elbow pit away (Gorilla Grip and Right Elbow Pit). Feet should be straight unless you have limited internal hip mobility (Should You Splay Your Feet).
July 13, 2018
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Jeffrey
Thank you Craig for the quick response! As I have just recently started the RST program I'm sure one of these videos has the answer to my next question but just in case: What is the weight distribution at address with the axis tilt? Is it 50/50 or 60/40 - 60 being on the right side and 40 on the left? Thanks!
July 13, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. 50/50. The slight bump and tilt will should negate each other.
July 14, 2018
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Lyndon
I been hitting shots thin all of a sudden. That’s really never been a problem. My set up I’m bending at the hips etc. Here’s a pic of my set up? Any suggestions?
June 11, 2018
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Lyndon
My setup
June 11, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lyndon. I would check how you are adding tilt. (Hip bump and tilt) Common Setup Faults and Fixes. Also, looks like the ball position my be too far up and check that your shoulders aren't slightly open to your stance line.
June 11, 2018
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Lyndon
Ok I will do that. I saw the video on ball position I believe and I did try and move it up even with my left ear but that may be the issue. I remember In the video to try and keep it in the same spot except for specialty clubs. I use to kinda move it around but I took the advice of trying to keep it the same for just about all the clubs. I didn’t want to move it back bc I didn’t want to create a steep plane coming back through. I’ll check on that tomorrow. I’ll be sending in a video soon.
June 11, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lyndon. Yes, it should remain the same. However, I can't see the ball in your picture. But, from what I can tell it is a little far up.
June 11, 2018
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Lyndon
Ok my bad on the view of the ball but I did have the club right behind the ball so yep it makes since it’s probably too far up. Should it be aligned with the left ear correct? I can see it’s a little farther up than that. I’ll check the other checks points during tomorrow practice. I’m a coach and teacher so I practice every day. Lol
June 11, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lyndon. Lead Ear/Logo of the Shirt.
June 11, 2018
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Lyndon
Ok thanks for quick reply. I’m off for 10 weeks (summer)so we will get this fixed lol
June 11, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lyndon. No problem. Good luck with the swing work.
June 11, 2018
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Shinji
In order to get a full and smoother shoulder turn in the backswing, is there anatomically a good angle for the neck at the set up? Thank you and many greetings from Japan.
June 11, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shinji. Your goal is a neutral spine. If you hold a club against the back of your head with the club laying straight down the spine. And, then hold the other end on your tail bone. When you hinge from the hip sockets. The club should stay on the head/tail bone and not come away because of rounding from thoracic, or cervical spine.
June 11, 2018
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Shinji
Great, thank you, Craig. Do you think that the chin should be more tucked into the neck because of the spinous processes?
June 11, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Shinji. I would be careful with tucking the chin back too much into the neck. The natural curve that will be there will be fine.
June 11, 2018
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Shinji
Again, many thanks, Craig, much appreciated.
June 12, 2018
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John
Where do you setup your hands with respect to the axis that runs from srernum to belt buckle?
May 12, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. The lead hand should be on the inside of the lead thigh with the club vertical. Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips Video.
May 12, 2018
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Vahe
Whenever I try to make a full shoulder turn i loose sight of the golf ball, is there something in my setup I'm that I can correct to fix this?
May 9, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Vahe. Make sure you are turning your shoulders on plane. Golf Backswing Shoulder Plane Drill. Might be a rotation issue and not setup.
May 9, 2018
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David
Hi All After a round of golf, usually the next day, i get tightness through the lower back just above the sacrum and on the outside of the left hip. Any advice on what i can do stop this. Also can you do anything about the Intl Shipping cost for Jomo as it is $68 to New Zealand!
May 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. I would check too make sure you don't have excessive secondary tilt and/or pushing against the lead hip socket (right handed player). Level Shoulders Drill and Preventing Hip Pain. I apologize. I don't have control over the shipping fees.
May 8, 2018
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Paul
Do you recommend spraying your left foot out at address ?
March 21, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. Take a look at Should You Splay Your Feet Video.
March 21, 2018
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Ron A. Sr.
How wide should you Stand?
March 15, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ron. Take a look a Determining Proper Stance Width. 2 Inches outside Neutral Joint Alignment. As a supplement, I would advise Swing Faults When Your Stance is Too Wide.
March 15, 2018
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James
how much weight will be remaining in the left ankle at the top of the backswing?
March 10, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. You should be about 80/20 trail to lead side at the top of the backswing.
March 10, 2018
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Frank
I notice some of the pros in self analysis videos slightly kick their right knee inward. What are pros/cons of this move?
February 10, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. Ideally, we prefer to roll slightly inwards with the ankles (Anchor to the Ground Video). The kick in will help restrict over rotation of the hips going back. It can be used to help solve the issue. But, over done you can put a lot of stress on the knee joint if you don't pivot the hip properly.
February 10, 2018
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Mariam
Hi, I hope this is an appropriate post for this video: I'm looking to get new clubs fitted. Is there anything different about fitting clubs for RST swing? Will any top 100 club fitter do? Is there anything I should ask prospective club fitter? I am 6'3", currently live in Indianapolis moving to Nashville and make frequent trips to central Virginia if that makes any difference. Thanks so much. If someone has posted identical post somewhere, feel free to just tell me where to look. I would love to leave fitting confident that clubs will work with good RST swing without compensations.
January 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jay. Any good experienced fitter will be fine for RST. The key is finding the good ones. Hard to do sometimes.
January 8, 2018
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Martyn
Hi Craig. Thanks for your first video review that you sent me last week. I have been working on the drills and videos you recommended, including set up fault fixes, hinging from the hip, how far to stand from the ball ... as well as the 5 mins to perfect rotation, bucket and 4 square drill. I still find it hard to stand upright enough. I've narrowed my stance, only hinge slightly from the hip and slight knee bend, which is all fine until I put my right hand on the club, and then i have to bend over more to reach it. In the video I sent you I had too much axis tilt, but without that I can't seem to get my right hand to the club handle. I've also adjusted my hand position so that my right hand is more in line with my chin line, but can't seem to stop my right shoulder kind of collapsing and rounding forward to get my right hand on the club. You compared my stance to Chuck's in your review and his shoulders are clearly back and relaxed while mine seem hunched. Any suggestions?
February 28, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martyn. Remind me in your follow up review. It would be hard for me to assume why that is happening right now. Take a look at the Connecting to the Core Video in the meantime.
March 1, 2017
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Patrick
This is for Steven Maes, or whoever reviews my next video set. Hello Steven, you reviewed my first video submission a couple of weeks ago. I just uploaded a couple of new videos minutes ago for review. However, there is no place, that I can see, to leave a message for the reviewer as to what I was trying to submit. I submitted one where I am setting up with a driver, 5 iron, 7 iron, pitch, and sand from down the line. I was wanting comment on my hinge angle as that is a question I have asked already in the forums. I am hinging less with the driver, more and more, down to the most with my sand wedge. Is that ok? I also included face on with my driver, 5 iron, and sand wedge. Was curious about setup, including ball placement. I stand in neutral with left foot even with ball, then move about 2 inches out and I think that puts the ball where it needs to be. Feedback? The second video is face on and down the line slow motion swing focusing on takeaway. I am working hard on rotation and sitting on my right glute while not letting weight go to outside of right foot. I do notice I have a hard time keeping my right arm straight all the way to complete takeaway. I can do it if I really concentrate. Question, do shoulders pronate outward, like reaching straight out to shake hands, to help keep arms straight? I really need to start practicing the entire takeaway with the club, because I can do the individual drills without the club (and while I have done a lot, I know I have a lot more to do) but it starts breaking down with the club. So I want to start slow motion with the club to ingrain that so I am looking for feedback on form so I can do the whole thing correctly.
December 27, 2016
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Patrick-There is be slightly more bend with a wedge than a driver because the length of the shaft is very different. So there maybe a small difference in hinge but also keep in mind that you will also be standing closer with a wedge than a driver too. As for ball position, keep it off the left ear for stock shots and slightly more forward with the driver. Keeping the right arm straight is a good thing. We need it for width so if you're focusing on that than just focus on that and don't overload yourself with information. If you have to focus on that but are also trying to focus on lag or whatever else in your swing then the learning process wont be as efficient. 1 piece at a time. The shoulders should be as flat as we can keep them during the swing. If the shoulders get rounded it will be easy for you to just use your arms and not your core. Keep your shoulders depressed and retracted to force you to turn better and more which in turn will help keep the right arm straighter into the takeaway. Biggest advice is to take it one piece at a time otherwise it will be hard to make swing changes.
December 28, 2016
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Patrick
Ok. I have been taking it one piece at a time but have to do more reps. I know I have to keep the right arm straight. I went back to 5 minutes to rotation with the namaste and arms out drills and combining with takeaway drill with club. Will slow it down again and get those reps in. The good news is that in the few swings I have taken since rotary swing thereviews has been dramatic improvement. For example my avg club head speed for mini driver was 82 MPh with a few over 90. I spent 3 weeks on RT drills and swung the Minidriver about 10 times with all over 90 MPh and one at 105, one at 104, and one at 103. However, can't sustain it because I need more basic reps. Oh well, back to work.
December 28, 2016
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Patrick
Steven, you are still going to look at the videos and provide feedback directly through that channel right?
December 28, 2016
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Correct
December 30, 2016
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Patrick
Just as an FYI I hear what you are saying. I went back and watched setting up to the ball video, and for a minimum of two weeks I am going to do the 5 minutes to set up drills, weight shift drill (swing drill), 5 minutes to weight shift drills, and 5 minutes to rotation drills. I had been working on those but also got out ahead of myself because I felt I understood the concepts but hadn't drilled enough of the core stuff in. Also, I have a posturetek shirt that I am using in all of these drills and that is helping a ton. I also have a rotary connect and a smash bag just so you know.
December 31, 2016
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Ted
I've been working on sequencing weight shift and pulling from lead side rather than pushing off the trail side but video analysis has made it clear that even though my takeaway improved and I was shifting I was still pushing off the right and having a very arms dominated swing. Went back and reviewed a lot of the basic videos and this one clicked. I was hinging forward OK but realized I was still starting with too much pressure on my toes. I began to concentrate on trying to stay centered over the ankles from takeaway to the top. Felt weird! Almost like I was falling backward a bit, but was actually on "solid ground". The result surprised me. The right glute engaged automatically. It seemed like my weight shifted more naturally. The left glute engaged more naturally. And, when I started trying to add the other aspects of wide takeaway, flat left wrist at the top, and loosening of arms and wrists at the top...the golf balls did wonderful things in terms of trajectory and distance. The power felt more natural and less forced. Got a long way to go, but I'm commenting because of my level of amazement at the difference this "foundational' adjustment has made. Working to find and the maintain weight staying centered over the ankles seems to be so key in releasing the entire swing (when other elements of correct posture are present). I'll work on this more today. Thanks.
December 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great Ted. Thanks for the post. We appreciate the compliments and this will help our members as well.
December 15, 2016
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John
What is the general opinion with respect to single length irons, like Bryson DeChambeau plays with, and RST? I can see how only having one length of irons has the potential of simplifying both the golf setup and swing. Has this concept been discussed much? What's the general consensus in the RST community?
November 12, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. The concept hasn't been discussed much on the site. However, the issue would be variable speed loss. If you take a look at the Vijay Release Drill. Chuck will talk about how much speed can be gained or lost only due to a half inch change. If all the clubs were the same length. You would need to tinker like Bryson with the lofts to try and match everything to the yardages you are expecting with the shorter shaft. But, then trajectory and launch angles will start to change. It could be a cumbersome project. However, some are starting to experiment with it.
November 12, 2016
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John
Thank you for your response! As I am in the market for a new set I thought it would be good to look into Cobra's new set that they are coming out with so I wasn't sure if they would be a good option for me. However, after looking further into them it turns out they are only coming out with a right handed set so as a lefty the point is moot! It looks like my best option is to stick with a standard length set of clubs.
November 12, 2016
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Willie
Willie When I was younger and earning my keep racing bicycles I managed to break my left collarbone rather severely; as a result the distance from my sternum to my left shoulder is 1.5" less than the distance to the right shoulder. How will this affect ball position and follow through?
November 6, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Willie. The lead shoulder joint will be the bottom of the arc in your swing. Without seeing you it would be hard to give an exact location. But, you goal is to have the ball just before it. It more than likely will be a little closer to your sternum than logo of the shirt.
November 7, 2016
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Willie
Thanks for confirming what I was thinking. I have been attempting to use the shirt logo as a guide, but it just didn't feel quite right.
November 7, 2016
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Eric
Should the head move to the right when doing the tilt? The video shows it does, but in one of them (I forget who the instructor was), but he said the head should not move to the right. Just the hips shift left.
October 24, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. You might see a slight head movement, but shouldn't be a lot by any means. The other video you are referring to is for the majority of golfers. They tend to over do the tilt and allow their head to move too much when adding tilt.
October 24, 2016
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Eric
Do the shoulders need to pronate when you hold the club? If I try to keep spine neutral, tilt and let my arms hang, they are on touching the outside of my pecs. From this point, it very difficult to hold the club. I have to pronate both shoulders (though keeping the spine straight) to grip the club. But I thought one of the video says not to pronate the shoulders at address?
October 21, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. The goal is to keep the shoulders in the box as best as possible to not round in the thoracic spine region. Depending on body and chest type. If you have a little protraction to reach the club, but the shoulder blades are still depressed in a good position. You should be okay.
October 22, 2016
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Paul
I am right handed. My trail arm only opens 45 degrees from 90 degrees. It extends half way. Do you think I need to modify my ball position
September 1, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. I think the ball position should be fine.
September 1, 2016
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Stephen
During the setup, once you have an axis tilt with your spine giving you the letter K, does your head sit natural to your shoulder position so slightly to my right since I'm a right handed golfer. If so do I use my left or right eye to look at the ball and should my head position be behind the ball so looking at the right hand side of the ball? Thanks a lot
August 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. I answered the question during your review.
August 30, 2016
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Stephen
Awesome got that. Thanks alot Craig. Thanks so much for all the info in my review. Brilliant tips. I have my setup sorted. Just working on programming the neural pathways with my take away. I'm feeling different muscles from doing this. Im imagining that someone is pushing my right shoulder back to help with making sure I have good shoulder turn from the start of the take away, and not using my arms. Next step is making sure I stop casting my club so not to release the club head too early. Whats the best video I can watch to help with that, for a drill ! Thanks a lot
September 1, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. Glad you found the review helpful. For casting, I would watch the Frisbee Drill and the Re-Shaping Your Swing For Lag Video.
September 1, 2016
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Stephen
Awesome thanks a lot Craig, will check them out
September 1, 2016
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Ronald
Assuming a constant ball position for all stock shots, how does the stance width change?
August 23, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronald. Stance width will only change with the driver (Proper Tee Height Video) and short game shots (chipping, etc).
August 23, 2016
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Dustin
Hey guys. Does every club get the ball played off the left foot for right handers like the video shows?
August 21, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dustin. The ball will be placed off the lead ear or logo of the shirt for all stock shots. With the driver, short game and speciality shots the ball may be somewhat adjusted.
August 22, 2016
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Jason
Do we need to hip bump/ create axis tilt for putting too? (especially if we are to turn and not tilt for the putting stroke) -thx in advance
August 20, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jason. In putting you will be hinging more forward from the hips and trying to have a nearly zeroed out angle of attack. The only axis tilt present would be naturally applied by the trail hand being lower. You don't need to add any.
August 22, 2016
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Jason
thx
August 22, 2016
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Ronald
It is very difficult for me to imagine the ball position in relation to my ear. Why don't you characterize it in relation to the sternum or left foot or some other fixed position that the golfer could more easily relate to the ball on the ground.?
August 20, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronald. It would be hard to use the lead foot as the fixed point since stance width will change depending on the type of shot. You could use a mirror to mark the distance from your sternum that is just off the lead ear and take that measurement to the course (roughly for me it would be 1 1/2 golf balls).
August 22, 2016
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gordon
Back in February you gave me some useful answers regarding how much the hips should tilt towards the target line when setting up. Watching this video once again poses a related question, this time concerning axis tilt. Is the amount of this tilt dependent on the club? I realise that for the driver hitting up requires more axis tile in the set up. I could imagine that hitting a fairway wood also benefits from a little more axis tilt. However would the amount of axis tilt be the same for SW and 5 iron, and if not how should I dial in the appropriate amount of tilt for the club in use? Best regards, Gordon.
August 20, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. The tilt is determined by genetics and characteristics of what you want at impact. The driver will have more tilt because you want to catch it more on a positive angle of attack at impact. For a fairway wood, most people are still hitting down on it. Therefore, it will still be similar to an iron swing. However, off the tee with a 3WD for max carry you can play with the ball position and axis tilt to change the launch type. The axis tilt is best determined by lining a club vertically down the sternum and then adding hip bump/tilt until the club is inside the lead knee. It really wouldn't vary from club to club (stock shot).
August 22, 2016
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Anthony
I understand that in the video it says we should not start out with our weight on the balls of our feet. Later Chuck says it should be balanced over your ankles. Is he saying the weight should be in the heels at setup? I appreciate any clarification you could give.
July 18, 2016
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Robert-Yes the weight will be more in the heels (ankle) at setup vs on the balls of your feet. This is for a safety reason. The more weight on the balls of the feet the more stress and strain is placed on the knee joint. Keeping the weight over the heel/ankle is a much safer place for the knee joint throughout the swing.
July 19, 2016
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Malcolm
When creating axis tilt to you push the lead hip towards the hole or tilt the spine back away from it? Mal
July 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Malcolm. It is a slight hip bump towards the target and the upper half will slightly move away from target. Take a look at Common Golf Setup Faults and Fixes.
July 18, 2016
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Greg
Do you have any videos on the setup position for chip/pitch shots?
July 7, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. Go to the Video Menu - Short Game Section - Chipping. Pitching will be under Wedge Play.
July 7, 2016
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Jim
Why am I not getting sound on any of the videos? I had it yesterday before I bought a membership. And, why do I keep getting a popup asking me to join even when I click the option to sign in if I'm already a member. Not a good start.
June 29, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. I contacted customer support for you. Really odd what is happening. I apologize for the inconvenience.
June 29, 2016
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Jim
Thanks for your help Craig. I know this was not the appropriate place to post my problems but I could find no other place to make contact.
June 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
No worries Jim. Hopefully, all is well now.
June 30, 2016
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jonathan
Hi. I'm confused about how to set up my left arm. I learned golf by reading Ben Hogan's Five Fundamentals where I learned to point my elbow pockets skyward, but that just makes me stiffen up nowadays. I have a muscular chest and it seems to get in the way of my arms. How should i place my arms? my left arm especially?
June 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jonathan. Both arms/elbow pits will be pointing away, but you don't want to externally rotate the arms so much that the pits are both facing skyward. Take a look at the Golf Grip Tips, Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box, and the Fixing Your Setup to help.
June 13, 2016
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Richard
chris, thanks, when hitting 3,iron, I'm catching the ball on the low groove, what causes this to happen? rich
June 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rich. There are a lot of factors to this question. However, I think you aren't staying with the shot. Make sure the upper half doesn't lag behind (Fixing Your Weight Transfer) and that you don't create too much secondary tilt (Level Shoulders Drill).
June 10, 2016
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Richard
Chris, when i'm hitting my mid irons, do I bend more from the waist, more rounded shoulders, thanks rich s
June 8, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Typically, the longer the club gets the more upright your posture will be. You will always try to change the hinge from the hips and not round the shoulders.
June 9, 2016
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chris
Can you direct me to the video that shows me how to know distance the ball should be away from me please. I saw the faults of ball position but don't see correct position video. Thank you.
May 14, 2016
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chris
Just in case I went through all the set up videos and ball position and haven't seen the distance at set up one. I've been told a lot of things but want to learn the rotary swing way.
May 14, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. When you replied to your own comment it took your question of the board. Apologize for the wait time. Take a look at the How Far to Stand from the Ball Video.
June 9, 2016
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Ray
That's the first time that I was ever able to setup to the ball like Hogan. He described it as sitting on a "spectator-sport-stick". Moving the tush back when bending from the hip socket accomplishes this perfectly. This is good stuff, guys.
May 12, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ray. Thanks for the compliments Ray. Supplement this video with the Hinging from the Hip Video.
May 12, 2016
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Danny
Use the ABS to relieve the back while hinging from the hips....engaging the ABS is key to a good set up....I have a good set up but the lower back sometimes feels "cramped". I tried engaging the ABS with my set up and what the heck - the lower back is fine! I try to point my belly button at the ball as a reference as to how much I should bend over.
April 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Danny. Belly button might be a bit too much depending on genetic factors. However, it sounds as though you are on the right track.
April 11, 2016
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gordon
I understand that the amount by which one should tilt from the hips (towards the target line) depends on the club and I think that the longer the club the less this tilt should be, i.e. for longer clubs one should "stand taller" in setup. Is this correct? Could you provide and indication of the range considered typical for the difference in tilt between SW and driver setups. Thanks and regards, Gordon.
February 2, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. As the clubs get longer you will tend to stand a little taller. For forward hinge from the hips it will usually vary from 0-15 degrees of difference (shortest to longest).
February 2, 2016
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gordon
Many thanks for the quick reply. It has set me thinking. I tried holding driver and SW together and found remarkably little difference needed in hip tilt to keep the club face flat on the ground, is this due to correction by the different "lie" angles of the clubs? This particular aspect has become more topical due to the appearance of Mr. de Chambeau (?) and has same-length clubs to simplify the swing. Do you know whether his special clubs have the same lie angles? Best regards, Gordon.
February 2, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. Yes, the adjusted "lie" angles are making the correction. I am unsure, but would imagine he has the same lie angles throughout.
February 2, 2016
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gordon
Thanks again Craig. Please allow one further question from me on this. Since the adjusted lie angles make a correction enabling all the clubs to be held "correctly" with the same amount of hip tilt why is there the opinion that longer clubs need a taller stance in setup? Has this something to do with flatter vs. steeper swing planes for longer vs. shorter clubs respectively? Best regards, Gordon.
February 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. When you start swinging longer clubs. The opinion is taller to help with swing plane and less steep angle of attack. Swinging more on a flatter arc.
February 3, 2016
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william
Tilt ing better from the hips...my eyes are not looking at the ball,, feel like I have to look down ,my curve is in my neck not my back....thanks bill c
December 6, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
William-make sure you have enough hinge from the hips-basically hinge enough so you can see the ball and keep the chin up. That will help keep everything in the upper back flat and correct. If you have to still look down, you may be standing a little to close to the ball.
December 6, 2015
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Bob
Practicing correct posture a work in progress now I understand better why I had issues. Standing straight and contracting my Abs has really helped me keep my balance because of my Abs. Hinging from hip sockets a real key for my stance. My spine is some what sore hopefully its from working on new stance.
December 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bob. Happy to hear you are correcting your posture issues. You are probably sore from engaging new muscles now. You are actually working the musculature to have a better posture versus slouching and straining the vertebrae.
December 5, 2015
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Djamil
When i try to work on my posture it's hard for me not to bend more my knees. I am very tall, i have +2 inches + 2° upright, but with my short irons i don't feel good, it seems they are too short but i don't know if it's ok to bend more my knees or to incline more my spine...Do you know tall player and what do they do in theyr posture? TY
December 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Djamil. I wouldn't add too much more knee bend. You can bend over a touch more to help. Being I am not as tall as you. Here is an earlier post by Aaron. Hope it helps. "Hi Rick, I'm Aaron and I am 6'5 ish. I have an inch over my clubs and still have a way bent over posture compared to chuck. My driver setup looks like his 8 iron. Chuck has very long arms and isn't as tall as us so he can stand more upright. Ernie els I think only plays a quarter over. And he is 6'3. It is more about how you get into posture than how it has to look. We are all built differently so it will look different. Can chuck get into Rst posture with a 60 degree wedge? Of course. What I do with my clubs which keeps me a little more upright is every wedge is the size of my pw, all the same length. Lie angle is dependent on swing plane, and shaft make up (droop) and to be honest isn't that important unless you are more than 1-2 degrees off. Hope this helped. Send in a review so we can see your setup."
December 4, 2015
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Dean
Interesting second picture of a compression fracture
September 29, 2015
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James
Three questions re: setup 1). How many degrees of tilt forward should I have at address? I know it would vary by club but can you provide of range? 2). While in the proper setup... if I dropped a ball straight down to the ground from my nose where in relation to my feet and / or target line would it hit the ground? 3). During the take away + backswing how much can my head move directly backward from (not along) the target line?
September 24, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. The club should be relatively vertical at setup without a lot of lean. Take a look at the Fixing Your Setup Video. It would hit roughly in front of the feet and hands splitting the distance in the middle from the feet to the ball. The head should stay pretty stable, but can shift about 1 inch.
September 24, 2015
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Craig
I had no idea how important the posture would be and why my contact was not better. Is there a way get in the proper position faster as for me it seems like a mechanical process to really feel where my posture and weight over my heals should be. On my driver I started hitting all my shots on the toe, this obviously is due to wrong position distance from the ball. My arms and hands hang inside the grip and I need to move toward the ball. Is there a good way to determine that distance back from the ball so you don't need to adjust forward or is it just practice. My last round I hit some of the longest drives of my entire life at 62 and not in great weight shape that's impressive. but just looking to get in that position quicker.
September 18, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Craig. Great on the drives. Keep bombing it out there! It takes practice to really own the position. Even the pro's work on their setup all the time.
September 18, 2015
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john
Clay, This video is great. I just have one qustion and that is: Should you hold your abs pulled in during the swing? Thanks, John
August 24, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. The abs need to be engaged to get into the proper posture. But, you don't want to max out the contraction, so the other muscles can perform their proper function. You shouldn't have to think only abs throughout the swing.
August 24, 2015
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Michael
This is a good question and I think I just learned something. I still get email video tips from other golf sites that I have tried over the years and one that I received today had Andrew Rice indicating (and I'm paraphrasing here) that proper posture could be gained by taking the s-curve position and then pushing the hips/pelvis forward slightly toward the ball (straightening the spine). He mentioned that the abs would be engaged. When I tried it, it felt different than what I've been doing. I haven't been engaging my abs at all, I've been using just my back muscles to keep my spine straight. So I had to come here to see if this was correct and I just missed it or that tip was specific to what they were teaching. By this answer, I've apparently missed the engaged abs aspect of the posture.
September 17, 2015
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john
THANKS CRAIG. THAT HELPS
August 25, 2015
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David
Hi I am 6,4 quite thick thru the chest not the most flexible in the world i am unsure on how tall i should stand at address I have had some people say to bend over more and others say stand taller keeping in mind i do have a habbit of standing up in my back swing and on ocassion my down swing look forward to your reply.
August 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. It depends on a few factors. Torso length, leg length, etc.. Take a look at Proper Hinging from the Hips. I would like for you to stay tall, but not be uncomfortable. Weight centered over ankle joints, hinge from the hips, and a slight bend from the knees. Don't make up for bending over with too much bend from the knees. If you have to bend over a touch more to not overly bend at the knees. That is okay.
August 17, 2015
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Sam
I am 5ft 7in with average torso and arm length relative to my height. Is it safe to say that my posture will be fairly upright? Could you give me a ballpark in degrees of how much forward bend from the hips I should have? I have also been choking up on the club and have clubs with - 2 degree on the longer irons (will be getting fit soon however).
August 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stan. Your posture should be fairly average. However, you will probably have the tendency to miss more upright. Forward bend will change depending on club. It would be hard to predict a perfect bend for you. Ballpark (above 40 Degrees)
August 10, 2015
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Edward
I cannot find a video which tells you how far the ball should be away from you in the set up. This is a major problem for me. Obviously, you are farther away from the ball with the longer clubs. But, if I take a short club, tilt from the waste and bend my knees slightly, the club is above the ball. The only way I can get back to the ball and maintain the spine tilt, is be bending my knees further. Is this correct? I used to increase my spine tilt to get to the ball. Is this the better way? I once was told that you want separation between the front of your thighs and the club by the width of your thumb. Is this correct? I really think you need an entire video on this subject using different clubs so we can see how far away from the ball we should be. Thanks, Ed
July 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edward. You don't want to increase knee bend to reach the ball. If the arms are hanging correctly under the shoulder joints and creating a line through the shoulder joints to the elbow joints. This is what you want to maintain to be correct distance from the ball. If you look at the Dustin Johnson Setup for Consistency Video Chris will describe this positioning or the Proper Hinging from the Hips Video in the Setup Section.
July 19, 2015
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Edward
I watched that video and it did not answer my questions.
July 19, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Edward, What Craig is trying to describe you you is correct. We want to be able to take our golf posture (with spine slight spine angle adjustments based on the length of the club) and not have to try and fine how far or how close we are supposed to be from the golf ball. When setup in correct, anatomic golf posture, you want the arms to hang freely from the shoulders to grip the club. The clubs lie angle may dictate how upright/bent your spine needs to be off your pelvis to make sure it is soled to the ground.
July 19, 2015
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Edward
That helps. Thanks
July 19, 2015
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Scott
I am trying to fix my total setup including posture axis tilt and getting the club to the top. Got to the range tonight to see how things were going and I was shanking everything. 90 % of my club contact was on or near the hosel. thoughts?
July 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. The shank can be caused by numerous factors. You can see a description of those in the How to Cure the Shanks Video in the Downswing Advanced Section. However, check your setup. Take a look at the Swing Faults Caused by Poor Setup in this section Advanced. Al will discuss your possible issue with the "lateral."
July 16, 2015
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Scott
Will do thanks!!!
July 16, 2015
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sambhu
When I am properly Set up I feel pressure on the inside of my right foot( I am a right handed golfer)..Is this a correct cue?
July 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. Take a look at Anchoring to the Ground in this section Advanced. The pressure will be more towards the in-steps.
July 2, 2015
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sambhu
This is the feeling I get .. With a proper set up the chest " covers the ball " I assume as you hinge from the hips
July 2, 2015
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Howard
When I try to get into the correct posture it feels like I'm arching my back too much. It feels like I'm squeezing my low back. Is that the correct feeling I'm looking for?
July 2, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Howard, we dont want to be "arching" the back a setup- that can lead to an s-curve in the spine which will put stress/pressue which we dont want on the spine. To get rid of that we want to engage the abs. Feel like your pulling in your belly button towards your spine by engaging your abs and you will have a neutral and flat back.
July 2, 2015
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Howard
Thanks. I'll give that a try.
July 2, 2015
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Brian
I find myself a little more upright in my posture when using the driver, with very little hip hinge. Is that always going to be the case with longer clubs, or do I need to adjust myself a little further back to gain more hip hinge?
June 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brian. With the driver some players will experience a little less hinge from the hips. Just make sure you have some and the weight is still properly placed.
June 9, 2015
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David
Hello, I have a question regarding the set up with arms. I am having trouble with the feel between my right bicep and pectoral muscle. Should they be lightly touching? In the past I have bent over more and they have hung down, or worse I have reach out excessively to reach for the ball. Thanks for the input
June 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. They will be lightly touching. You don't want to overly press the arms against the chest. But, have enough awareness that there is a connection.
June 3, 2015
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David
Great. Thx
June 3, 2015
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gary
Hi, what is the reason to have the feet parallel to the target line and to not have the toes flared out?
May 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. When the toes get too flared out. They allow you to over rotate the hips and inhibit the ability to properly post.
May 27, 2015
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Trey
I have been just bending over at the waist but I think I understand now.
May 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Trey. Yes, hinge from the hips.
May 23, 2015
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Ray
After many years I finally understand what Hogan meant in Five Lessons. Thanks, guys!
May 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ray. Glad we could help!
May 21, 2015
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Evan
I feel the weight move during the swing.
May 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Evan. You will feel the shift.
May 18, 2015
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Evan
Ok I get that. Sometimes even if I set up as above and I am working on being over my ankles/into the heels, during the swing u feel weight move toward my toes. Weird right? So I was just looking for video that helps stabilize balance?
May 17, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Evan, if you roll your ankles inward and make sure that you feel your glutes activate in the backswing, you'll be loaded up into your trail side heel. This will keep you off your toes. Also, if you swing too hard from your shoulders to start your downswing, it will pull your weight out towards the toes. Keep working on your drills. You'll be able to do it very well soon enough! R.J.
May 17, 2015
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Evan
Didn't think about the ankles thanks! I sit into left side to start downswing and everything follows.
May 18, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
You're welcome! Good luck. R.J.
May 18, 2015
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Barry
Hi guys, Should my biceps be against the sides of my chest or in front of my chest ( back of triceps touching my chest). Hope I'm explaining this correctly. Currently the side of my arms are pushing against the side of my chest is this correct or is there a video which shows front and side views of how the top of the arms should sit. Thanks Barry
April 24, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Barry. You don't want the arms resting too much on top of the chest. You will have awareness that lower part of the bicep and triceps are touching the sides. Take a look at the Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box Video in this Section. Should help with a better visual.
April 24, 2015
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Steven
In Hogan's Five Lessons, in the setup, he talks about keeping your elbows as close to gather as possible. He shows a visual of ropes tied around his arms, this is the feeling he wants. When I set up, I put my arms on top of my chest and press my elbows inward. Should I stop doing this and just have my arms on the side of my chest?
May 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Steven. You want the arms hanging nice and neutral with the elbows pointed away from the body. You don't want to externally rotate them too much and pin them to the top of the chest.
May 25, 2015
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Latedrick
So do you keep your abdomen tight during the whole swing to keep your back straight?
April 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Latedrick. You will use the abdominals, but you don't want to aggressively tense them too much throughout the swing or they will tend not to fire properly. Use them to get in posture and good spinal alignment. Engaged, not overly stressed.
April 21, 2015
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Gregory
Remember for proper setup to hinge from the hip sockets. The feel is standing straight up a push of the hip socket back and this gives you proper spine angle at address.
April 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Gregory for the post. You are spot on.
April 12, 2015
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Rick
Thanks Aaron. Great info and help regarding club lengths. I'll try to post a video soon. Rick
March 31, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rick. Fantastic. Glad Aaron was able to provide you with some good information.
April 1, 2015
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Rick
I have a question about club length. Do you suggest that clubs be fit to a player for a more upright posture? I'm 6'3" tall with normal length arms and my clubs are 1/4" over standard. At adress I have a much more bent over posture than the RST posture. Do some RST players who've had a more bent over posture need more upright and perhaps longer clubs? Thx. Rick
March 31, 2015
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Aaron (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Rick, I'm Aaron and I am 6'5 ish. I have an inch over my clubs and still have a way bent over posture compared to chuck. My driver setup looks like his 8 iron. Chuck has very long arms and isn't as tall as us so he can stand more upright. Ernie els I think on,y plays a quarter over. And he is 6'3. It is more about how you get into posture than how it has to look. We are all built differently so it will look different. Can chuck get into Rst posture with a 60 degree wedge? Of course. What I do with my clubs which keeps me a little more upright is every wedge is the size of my pw, all the same length. Lie angle is dependent on swing plane, and shaft make up (droop) and to be honest isn't that important unless you are more than 1-2 degrees off. Hope this helped. Send in a review so we can see your setup.
March 31, 2015
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Manuel
Hello, I found an exercise that has helped me hinge from the hips. Its called the dowel hip hing exercise. It pretty good at posture in general. Do you recommend this? Thanks!
March 25, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Manny, yes, it will help you maintain a straight back in the setup. I do it with my golf club when I'm warming up before my round. However, make sure that you're still following the golf setup - posture video check points because you don't want to get too far bent over with this exercise. R.J.
March 25, 2015
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Francis
I notice that I feel some strain on the muscles on the back of my neck when I address the ball. Is this because I'm tucking my chin/nodding my head into the front base of my neck? Should I lift my chin so that I'm looking rather than down at the ball? The only problem with this is that my natural sight is a foot or so past the ball rather than at the ball…I could keep my head straight and roll just my eyes to keep them on the ball rather than a foot on top of the ball but it feels unnatural. What am i doing wrong?
March 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Francis. Keeping it flatter and not tucking it under too much would help. Add a touch more hinge from the hips while keeping the neck in position. So, you don't have to change your eye line when looking at the ball. You are probably rounding and straining those base neck muscles.
March 22, 2015
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Clint
I tend to naturally set up with my feel slightly open, and I was curious to know if there is a preference when applying RST?
March 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Clint. Are you referring to your stance being open to the target line, or toes flared out?
March 21, 2015
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Clint
Sorry, open to the target line. Feet are usually flared about to maybe 1'O clock.
March 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Clint. Preferably, the feet should be parallel to target line and the toes not flared out. With the feet open to the target line it can inhibit rotation in the backswing and there will be more a tendency to spin the lead hip too open at impact.
March 23, 2015
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scott
Sorry about the grammar and spelling had type it quick.
March 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Scott. No worries. RST is a judgment free zone. I'm lucky because I get to cheat with spell check .
March 17, 2015
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scott
Hello RTS, I just wanted to introduce myself to your program, first I have been golfing since 1998. In that time I have been to several instructors to improve myself over the years and have some success but not to my satisfaction. I am now 53 year old still have not learned to have a confident setup and trust it until now, after watching your introduction about the Rotary swing, I am convince now that it not my ability but is the way I have been taught in the passed. I handicap to date is 10.5 and I have not been able to get any further. I have some success at hitting pretty good drive but not getting the distance I believe I can achieve so decided this year I would change and make commitment to your philosophy and I am starting from scratch. I know that I need to get your videos of what I have been doing and I will that to you and I am looking forward to your suggestions and willing to put the time in because enough is enough, I know that I can play this game and having a solid base is the key instead of guessing what to do. I started the first part of process and starting from the beginning so far it seems to help, for example I live on the East Coast and you know how much snow we got anyway, I start the my first 18 hold with a 79 but it was only on the simulator with about 30 guys who put a little competition together to start the year and I incorporated your setup into it. I know it will take time, and I am willing to put the time in, I also excited because my 15 yr son starting playing last year and I think this would be great for him too. Anyway enough about me, I have a lot of work to change my habits not that it cant be done I am sure with my flexibility and having to play so much golf it should be doable. I play 9 hold on League and belong to a club call Shining Rock, Northbridge and Play with about 40 50 people almost every weekend sometime Sat and Sun and 36 holds so I think i have enough time on the course and now to apply what I about to learn here, looking forward to working with your guys. Thanks
March 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. Thank you for the post. We are happy to have you as a member and ready to start the journey of changing your swing for the better! It is a process and there is a learning curve. I can attest though through my students and even my own golf swing that it is a worth while endeavor. If you put in the work, we will put in the work. Building a more efficient golf swing that is repeatable and less wear and tear on the body. If you ever need anything please let us know. Or, upload your swing for review and we will start to plug the leaks in your swing.
March 17, 2015
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Louis
Yes Scott.... I can attest to the fact that grooving this motion will make you a more confident and consistent player... I did two swing reviews where I didn't even have the loading of the right leg correct and it took me a few weeks to get just that. Was hitting a 7-iron a total of 110 yards before and now I am hitting a pitching wedge 110 yards (and I still don have a great release). But, guys at my club are telling me how nice my swing looks (music to my ears). This site will give you the foundation needed to start fine tuning your game. Keep drilling and working in the 5 minutes a day videos and watching the other videos over and over and before you know it, you'll be on here everyday looking to add new pieces to build a great swing. Be relentless about it look for the joints and checkpoints and it will start clicking. It takes 5-10 minutes of FOCUSED practice per day minimum where you really are focused on what you are doing. I spent $120 on 6 months thus far and got more out of this than I did with three solid sessions with a swing coach. I did however ask my swing coach (TPI instructor and fitness freak) guide me through some of the videos, thoughts, and checkpoints (help me hit certain positions). So, the two worked well together. I am now working to make this swing as effortless as possible, by (1) improving my release on the practice tee (2) Playing on the course and not letting old habits leak back in. (3) Working on different shot types (4) The never-ending battle with the driver (one round nothing by stripes down the middle .....weak balloons the next....and everything in betwen) (5) My absurdly low mental strength when it comes to recreational golf rounds
May 24, 2015
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Stephen
Hi, I have a difficulty with my lumbar lordosis. I activate (tense or contract) my abs and it does not seem to straighten my back out like clay and chuck in these videos. In this posture video and Chucks video on hinging from the hip clay and chucks spine looks straight from coccyx to top of neck. The only way I can do this is by pulling my symphysis pubis slightly anterior, then bowing forward and hinging the hips. Is this correct? Stephen
March 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. You have too much anterior pelvic tilt. Take a look at some pelvic tilt exercises on the web. You will probably feel you add a little posterior pelvic tilt to flatten the lumbar.
March 16, 2015
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Stephen
Hi Craig So if I can have a flattened lumbar spine by maiming a slight pelvic tit. Would this be good posture? Because just bowiNg forward and contracting abs does not seem to do it for me. Thank you Stephen
March 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Stephen. Yes. That isn't only bad for your golf swing, but natural posture. Need to flatten it out a little. Look at some google images for good posture versus too much anterior tilt and posterior tilt.
March 16, 2015
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Louis
Craig... Anterior Pelvic Tilt feels strong and powerful for me. I do engage the abs a lot of the time, but sometimes I forget to do and still hit powerful shots. Why is APT so bad? When in an APT position with my driver, I seem to have an easier time getting the hands straight down inside while pulling with the left side and rotating.
May 24, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lou. When you have too much anterior pelvic tilt it really compresses the lumbar spine. Usually caused by tight hip flexors, tight back extensors, and weak abdominals. One of the big issues for you is using the glutes. Makes it harder to engage them properly and stabilize the hips.
May 25, 2015
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Olivier
Hello, Just a little question where can i find the video 5 minutes to master rotation to make the exercice? Thanks . Olivier
January 27, 2015
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Patrick (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Oliver, Full Swing Program Takeaway section
January 28, 2015
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Olivier
Thank you i will begin
January 28, 2015
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Nacho
Dear Chuck, could you please comment something about the optimal forearms width at set up and if this affect to the position of the right elbow pit? I found (right or wrong) that a if i maintain the forearms a bit closer (like in the tennis ball drill) my right elbow pit is in better position. Do you think this tennis ball drill also helps to longer keep the right arm straight during the backswing? Thank u!
January 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ignacio. Forearm distance will be relative to your body. There isn't a perfect distance or number I can give you. If the arms get too far apart the elbows will be pointed inward. And, if they get too close you will be externally rotating them too much into a locked position. I would error on the side of being close rather than too far apart. The tennis ball will help with the right arm positioning and shouldn't inhibit the proper usage.
January 13, 2015
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Nacho
Thank u Craig!
January 14, 2015
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fionn
Question: I wear glasses which I believe is making me tuck my chin into my chest, ultimately restricting my shoulder turn (also I tend to hit the short clubs way better than the long clubs); I wonder if you can advise on the chin position at set-up as I am wondering if I should be looking at the ball under my bifocal lenses (do you know what I mean?). Are there any videos which relate to this issue on the site? Thank you
January 2, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Fionn, Focus less on trying to see the ball with perfect clarity and more so on being in good posture. You don't have to be able to read the writing on the ball to hit it straight and long. It's far more important to train your body to do the movements in the proper manner than it is to be able to see the ball. Just trust that when you get the swing down, the club will return to the ball, even if all you see is a white blur. R.J.
January 4, 2015
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fionn
Thank you RJ, but what is the position of the head in good posture? Should the angle made by my spine be continued by the back of my head? Of should I look at it a different way?
January 6, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Fionn -- In simple terms, the head would tilt with the spine when working on axis tilt. Just a fraction. If you kept the head/neck in a straight line (vertical), then allowed the head to tilt with the spine while getting your small amount of axis tilt.
January 7, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Fionn, Your ear hole, shoulder, hip joint, back of the knee joint, and ankle joint should all be aligned when you're standing straight up. Your ear hole, shoulders and hips should all be aligned as you hinge from the hips to get in your stance. R.J.
January 7, 2015
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David
Hey guys any tips on how to keep your back straight looking at mine it is quite curved and am thinking this is why i get a sore lower back when i hit balls at the range many thanks.
December 12, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Learning how to keep the shoulders in the box and hinging from the hips allows the spine to stay straight. Take a look at the Connecting to the Core Video in this Section. Get the shoulders retracted and in the box. Use the Proper Hinging from the Hips in this Section to bend from the waist and not round the shoulders. Feel like you suck in the belly button a little to keep Lordosis from happening in the lower spine region.
December 12, 2014
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Dan
Thanks RJ for the quick response. Where can I find the adjustments in set up for the driver?
November 8, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Dan, There's a "Driver Setup Adjustments" video in the Full Swing Advanced: Setup section and then there's a whole bonus series about hitting the driver versus other clubs in the bonus series section "Bomb Your Driver" R.J.
November 8, 2014
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Dan
Is the stance width the same for PW through Driver (2" wider than my hips)?
November 8, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Dan, As far as the 2" outside of your neutral joint alignment, yes, it's the same for every club in the bag. However, there are some driver setup adjustments, but those don't have anything to do with stance width. R.J.
November 8, 2014
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Andrew
Damn, here I was skipping the intros. Just realized I rounded my back after two days of golf and hitting the ball wildly inconsistent. Question, if I do have my posture right, my back shouldn't be so sore or hurting at all? when I say sore, I guess i mean pain. I expect fatigue like an extreme gym workout. Thanks!
November 2, 2014
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Andrew, We don't want our back to be in any pain what so ever during the swing, once we have our shoulders depressed and retracted we are going to put our spine/back in a very safe position. At the same time we dont want to over due this move, so if you are starting to feel pressure or pain in the back or in the upper area by the neck, ease up on the movement. All the Best- Steven
November 2, 2014
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Andrew
Steven, Thanks. I will have to make this and the rest of the RST swing movements second nature. Watching these videos and the PGA tour players pumps me up! BTW, I have recorded my self several times, but I can't get enough distance to cover my whole body. Also, the swing gets blurry when I try to analyze it. What camera do you recommend? I have been using my smartphone but was wondering if I should buy an actual camcorder or a stand along digital camera. Thanks, Andrew
November 2, 2014
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John
I have a naturally bigger upper body (rectangle above "the box"). In the past I have curved my shoulders to get the feeling of my upper arms resting on top of my chest. I thought this would lead to a wider, freer swing. Watching this video along with the 5 minutes to perfect setup video, I've concluded that this was wrong. Following the videos, I now feeling that my upper arms are more pressed into the sides of my chest. I feel more "connected", with my hands slightly higher or closer to my chin (an inch or so). Posting to perhaps help others, and to check if I am on the right track.
October 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. It sounds like you are on the right track. Appreciate the post for our members!
October 9, 2014
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Bill
I have always felt that my lower body was unstable throughout the golf swing even when putting. Recently I tried increasing the distance between my thighs in the setup almost like I was squatting or riding a horse. Now my lower body feels perfectly stable and I am in balance throughout the swing, There is now a certain amount of tension in my lower body that makes it much easier for me to control its movement. It feels as if I have activated some muscles that provide the necessary stability. Does this make sense? What is happening with my muscles? Is there a video that provides guidance about this subject? Thanks! Bill
October 3, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Bill. Take a look at the Stance Too Wide Video in the Advanced Setup Section. It may feel more stable, but the issue is when you start trying to align your joints and transfer your weight efficiently.
October 3, 2014
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Bill
I am keeping my stance width at the recommended 2" outside of neutral joint alignment but am slightly increasing the distance between my thighs as if I were squatting down. When I roll my ankles as recommended in the setup videos, my lower body also becomes more stable but I have a more difficult time getting the 90-degree shoulder turn.
October 4, 2014
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Martin
I've noticed in many of the pro videos that their knees are over their ankles at address as opposed to over the laces of the shoes. The lower leg seems straighter (from ankle to knee) with the knee to thigh creating the angle over a straight lower leg. Is this correct? I seem to have more knee bend, my knee is forward of my ankle and my lower leg leans towards the ball from ankle up to knee. Hope that makes sense?
September 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martin. You need to relax at the knees, but not too much. You can't make an exact measurement between you and the pros because genetics are different. If you can center the weight over the ankle joints, bend slightly from the hips and relax with the knees. You should be ok. Too much or excessive knee bend leads to quad engagement and the weight falling forward.
September 30, 2014
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Moe
when i do the recommended 5 minute drill, its all fine and feels well, but when i do it with a club (like 7iron) i have to bend down quite a bit further for it to touch the ground (im 187cm and my shaft is of 'default size' which is 38inches for the 5iron). when my arms hang down naturally (not gorilla) theyre vertical or even slightly negative and theyre very close to my body (in the model swing 8iron DTL you can clearly see that his arms are not vertical but leaning forward). my instructor now told me to have the hands below my chin which enforces the above matter even more... plus there are multiple ways of adressing that way, depending on shaft angle to the ground, spine tilt and ball distance... its probably anatomy-dependend but what are good checking points for the three parameters above? if i hinge until my toes get light and then neutrally hang down my arms, my hands are way 'before' my chin (with the club touching the ground, without its no problem); if i bring them under my chin, i feel like the spine tilt gets pretty excessive. whats a good way to figure that out? is it looking good on the picture? (https://www.dropbox.com/s/8zyoqkbtdpgo1qr/setup_noclubclub.PNG?dl=0) thanks alot!
September 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Moe. I think the picture is spot on. Not too close and not too far away. The key is the arms hang naturally under the shoulder joint. I think you are over thinking it. Its all about the alignments and the joints. Don't get too stressed about it. The checkpoints and/or position you worked yourself into is a good place to rotate and swing the club correctly.
September 30, 2014
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andrew
I just wanted to ask about hand and arm position. I have heard it said that the arms should hang naturally. In this position my hands may be a little close to my body. My instructor on this site has suggested that the hands should be below the chin. I notice for example that Adam Scott's hands seem a little inside this line at address. Can you explain what effect having the hands a little closer to the body would have on the swing, and also comment a bit more on the theoretical optimal hand position?
September 26, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andrew. The hand position will be dictated by where your arms would naturally hang form the shoulder joints. If they are neutral and in proper location. The hands should be ok. The exact placement will be relative to genetics and body size. If you tend to bend over too much and the hands hang close and underneath. The swing will typically go low and under early with a lift/vertical position to the top.
September 26, 2014
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Paul
I recently had a full left knee replacement. I'm a right handed player. Any suggestions on setup adjustments? Paul
September 16, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. With your new knee are there any limitations on motion or pain?
September 16, 2014
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Paul
Still a little stiff and not fully stable yet. Buckles randomly so I'm a little tentative in taking a full follow through. Doctor says ok to go without restriction. Paul
September 17, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Paul. I don't have any major setup adjustments. But, for now don't focus too much on increasing the leverage with the squat on the way down. Just engage the left glute and get the weight transferred. If you use the 5 Min to the Perfect Setup w/ Weight Shift in the Weight Shift Section. Start stabilizing the movements with the glutes. It will take some pressure off.
September 17, 2014
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Paul
Craig. I think you're right on the mark. It's the little bit of squat that the knee is most unstable. I'll back off of that until the quad is stronger and can support the squat. I appreciate the fast response. Paul
September 17, 2014
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Chris
One of my problems is, I bend at the top of my spine... I shrug my shoulders up while standing upright and then let them down into a neutral position... then bend at the waist, however my upper spine still seems to be bent... what gives... is it just a matter of forcibly pulling my shoulders back or what? should I suck my big fat belly in also?... it feels at times like I'm pooching my butt... what the heck am I doing wrong or right?
August 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. You probably need to retract the shoulders a bit more. Make sure you aren't dropping the head as you bend. Pulling the head down too much will increase the thoracic curvature. Sucking the belly in will help flatten the lumbar spine. Have you uploaded a swing for review? We would be happen to see your setup process and where it might be going astray.
August 19, 2014
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Eric
After a L3-L5 fusion in April of last year I've decided to pick up the RTS approach. I'm finding the hinge from the hip approach seems to be putting excess strain on the muscles in the lower back. Now this could be that my muscles are still weak from the surgery considering the posterior approach and two large scars. It's not uncommon for my lower back to tighten excessively when I exercise it even with ample stretching. It's very annoying. I was excited to get back into golf after years of not playing before the surgery. Now that my spine can take it I'm having this. Any specific exercise that can be recommended would be appreciated. I'm also considering massage therapy.
August 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. I myself have L4-L5 issues. Stretch, stretch, and more stretching. My key is hamstrings. As soon as my hamstrings tighten. My back locks up like Fort Knox. We have some flexibility and strength videos in the Golf Fitness Section. Work on keeping the legs limber. It will help the back.
August 11, 2014
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Eric
Hey Craig. I've decided to throw in massage therapy as well. Had my first session last night and let me tell you WOW. The therapist was amazed at the tightness in my lower back while laying face down and relaxed. She went easy the first time but I can feel a difference already. I'm not sure about you but I have 2 incisions in my back and my surgeon said I have a lot of scar tissue. My therapist said she'll be able to work a lot of that out over time. I'm glad I finally decided to go. My recovery time was a bit over a year before I got to the point of being able to exercise or even feel like trying a golf swing. I had to give up golf oh about 8 years ago because of the back due to an accident when i was 15 which compound fractured the L3-L5 vertebrae and over the years the discs went bye bye. After the surgery I'm glad I decided to try Rotary Swing. A lot of it has been very familiar as I'm finding the positions similar to my old swing. It's crazy how long we retain muscle memory even after years of not swinging. It's encouraging to know one of the instructors have a very similar condition as myself. Thanks for the reply. My question now is this; I didn't post a video immediately upon joining. Now that I'm well into mastering the backswing what do you recommend as far as taping some full swings hitting balls for upload? I don't want to screw up what I'm ingraining to memory so what do you advise I do?
August 13, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eric. Glad to hear some therapy is loosening up that back! Feel free to upload a swing. You can leave your instructor notes. Tell him about your back and drills you've already started to concentrate on. He will either add more, or just check to see if the drills are getting into the proper location. We are here to diagnose, but also spot check your progress. RST has saved my back and shoulder. The only reason I have been able to continue with golf.
August 13, 2014
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don
CLAY WHEN YOU ARE IN THE PROPER POSTURE, ARMS IN THE BOX SHOULD THE BUTT OF THE CLUB BE LINED UP WITH CHIN , AS A GENERAL RULE ? AND DO ARMS HANG IN FRONT OF PECS OR TO THE SIDE TO BE IN THE BOX WITH PERFECT POSTURE, HAVING A BAD TIME WITH GETTING THE RIGHT SHOULDER BEHIND HEAD TO COMPLETE BACK SWING, AND WONDERED IF THIS WAS ONE OF THE ISSUES ? THANKS
August 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Don. Don't worry too much about the butt end. If the arms are hanging directly under the shoulder joint. It will be in the right spot. For your reference. The chin might be out too much. The butt end will be around the toes. The arms play a happy medium with the chest. Resting a little on the side and a touch in front. Not completely on top. Yes, improper posture can cause a multitude of problems with rotation. Practice making a good right shoulder pull with the Golf Body Rotation Video in the Advanced Backswing Section.
August 10, 2014
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Fraser
This is one that i've struggled with.. to find the answer. My question is the actual face of the club. So I was told many years ago that the grooves on the face of the club should never get past the shaft if you looking down the shaft. If i follow that then it looks like the face is open.. to make it appear to me square.. I feel its closed 20 degrees given shaft lean etc. Thoughts?
August 6, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Fraser. Are you describing looking down from setup? The club shaft should be vertical. Too much shaft lean presets to closely to impact. Taking away some of the dynamics and adding unnecessary movements in the swing to return the club back to the ball.
August 6, 2014
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Fraser
yes.. from inside setup. I don't have a camera.. but think i'll start showing my perspective in my sessions.
August 6, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Great. We would be happy to take a look.
August 6, 2014
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Theotis
I have big problems simply gripping the club and it comes and goes. Currently I find myself having to re-grip the club at the top of my back-swing. If I do not when I come down the face is wide open and have a weak shot that balloons to the right. I watched the video over the grip and when I try to apply that grip my face is overly shut at impact. I need help if I cannot even grip the club right how can I even practice any other aspect of the swing?
August 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Theotis. Thats odd that the more neutral grip is causing such a closed club face. Work from impact up. Figure out what length and speed you lose being able to keep the grip on the club and square at impact. Use the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release to start very slowly from the ground up. If you can maintain the grip with those drills. Work into the 9 to 3 Drill and so on. Please feel free to upload a swing to our online review system. Our team would be happy to take a look. Tell your instructor whats going on and where you need to concentrate.
August 4, 2014
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marvin
My big issue is the grip. I cannot seem to find a comfortable position for my right hand. My thumb and forefinger are also off the club when i view my swing on camera. It hampers my release and control of the club at the top of my golf swing. Thoughts?
July 24, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marvin. Are you right handed? Have you taken a look at the Golf Grip How to Video in this section. Try to get the club running down the base of the fingers (near the pad of flesh where the knuckles are). The right index finger and thumb need to be secure at address to support a set position at the top.
July 24, 2014
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Somphon
Hi, I was told by an instructor to squeeze the knees together. He put a small soccer ball between my knees and let me squeeze it quite hard. Actually he let me squeeze the ball until impact position. With this, my left knee still points inwards (to the right) on my downswing. I feel this kinda weird. Would like your input that this instruction aligns with RST or not. Thanks.
July 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yong. The disadvantage of the soccer ball is it tends to engage a few muscles not inline with RST. I don't mind the feeling. But, especially with the left knee of the downswing. The first move is to externally rotate the left leg/knee into neutral joint alignment. If this doesn't happen. You will put undue stress on the knee joint. Making it hard to transfer the weight properly and pivoting correctly with the left hip.
July 15, 2014
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Reesa
at what point in your set up do you position yourself the correct distance from the ball
June 29, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Reesa. The key is making sure the alignments are correct in the setup. It will control the distance from the ball. Take a look at the Proper Hinging from the Hips Video in this section. If the arms are hanging correctly from the shoulders. Make sure that position doesn't change and address the ball.
June 29, 2014
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Mark
When hinging from the hips after getting into a straight posture how much tension should you feel in the back of your calf muscles as I tilt my spine forward? I am trying to keep my legs relatively straight as I bend from the hips to the point where my toes feel light and then flex my knees to get into balance. In my reviews I usually find I do not have enough hinge from my hips. I have been too straight for years so I know that it going to take some reps to get use to this but I feel more pressure in the calf's than in the glutes until I flex my knees and then I guess I must be raising up a bit. Could you help me understand the sensations as I get into this position? I though I understood the sensation should be loading into the glutes.
June 6, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The calfs may be engaged, but there shouldn't be any excess tension. You should feel more load and tightness in the glutes. Make sure you are dropping your hips back to get centered over the ankle joints. If you bend just alone from the waist, you might be changing the engagement and distribution of the weight. Stressing more the lower leg.
June 6, 2014
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Ralph
When getting in your correct posture does club length change your posture. For example when swing a 5 iron I feel i am more erect in my posture vs swinging a wedge iron. When using the shorter club should I keep the same tilt of my spine in relation to my hips and just bend my knees more, or should i tilt foward more and not bend my knees as much.
May 28, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Try to stay away from excessive knee bend. That will tend to allow more quad engagement. The tilt will vary slightly. Feel like you drop the glutes back more while staying in the box and keeping the weight centered over the ankle joints.
May 28, 2014
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Anthony
Great little drills to help you find your "sweet spot" when addressing the ball. Great explanation on how to find your balance, never had a clue all these years! I always wondering why I ended up on my tip-toes, or stumbling to the side all together. Now I have to work on my aim, but at least the balls are flying straighter than ever!!
May 27, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
yes sir! Keep us posted on all of the progress you are making along the way.
May 27, 2014
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jiyoung
ok I understand this video, and now I can do this without club. However, I get rounded shoulder again, when I do this with club in the hand and when I make an address position with club head at the ball. Need more explanation. Thanks.
May 12, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Make sure that you have good axis tilt and when you are going into posture and gripping the club that you have the shoulders depressed and retracted. It will come with the more reps you do.
May 12, 2014
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Mark
How much if any bend at the neck should you have? Is the spine angle to be straight and maintained just the back and not the neck?
May 12, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
You are really looking to have a pretty straight line up through the neck. Load up a down the line view of Chucks swing in the swing viewer to get a clear picture of what it should look like
May 12, 2014
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brian
everytime i click on the rt swing program i get a blank menu above and no videos for me to select
April 27, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Brian, we have tested everything on our end and everything appears to be working just fine. What browser are you using and have you made sure that you have cleared cookies and cache? That generally solves the problem rather quickly.
April 27, 2014
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brian
your videos are not working
April 27, 2014
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What should hand position be when in the proper stance? Currently my hands end up roughly in front of my left thigh in an attempt to promote a relaxed shoulder axis tilt and forward shaft lean.
April 22, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
In neutral posture with correct axis tilt and dependent on build, The back of the left hand should be just inside the left thigh.
April 22, 2014
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David
Related to your comment about lordosis and stabilization of the lumbar spine, do you think the valsalva maneuver has a place in the golf swing?
April 18, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
I can do a bit of research on this but I would generally think that if you have pulled the belly button in at the address position to take curvature off the lumbar spine and engage the core, then that would allow stabilization for the swing as long as the core stays engaged during the entire movement. From what I already know about valsalva meneuver, that has you pushing the belly button outward which can engage the core in posterior sense (correct me if I am wrong) which could take the support off the lumbar spine in the golf swing.
April 21, 2014
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brian
How far away should I be standing from the ball? Is there a rule or a way I can check that I am lined up far enough away?
April 9, 2014
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René (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Brain. The arms should be hanging naturally under the shoulders and the hands under the chin. So you don't want your hands to be close to your body and not have them to far away (caused by reaching out to the ball). A rule of thumb is a bit more than a hand space between your body and the butt end of the grip.
April 9, 2014
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Louis
even with your driver? do you have a video that covers this topic?
August 7, 2015
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carter
What is the best way to find proper alignment with target?
April 6, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Best thing to do would be to practice on the range with alignment sticks and train the eyes through reps of looking down at the ball and then looking at the target. People forget how important this part of practice is as the eyes can be trained to look in a different direction than you are actually aiming
April 8, 2014

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