stance question

[slash77]

right foot perpendicular to target or flared out

I have a question regarding foot position in the stance. I've always been taught to have my right foot perpendicular to the target and my left foot flared out. However, it seems that a lot of pros also slightly flare out their right foot (way from the target). What is the correct foot position (left and right foot)? Thanks.

[Diesel]

my thought is that the back foot should be set up perpendicular to the target line...

[mohacker]

some do it to get more hip rotation and hence more power/distance(flare trailing foot) I am told.

[Vegas_Matt]

I was told you should only turn your right foot out if you lack the flexibility to get the club to parallel in your backswing. I don't think you gain much, if anything, by flaring out your right foot if you have no trouble making a full swing.

 

Many people do not know this (and I've never heard it discussed in relation to golf) but everyone's legs and feet have a natural tendency to turn either inward or outward. For some people it is very noticeable (like people who are bow-legged) and for many you cannot tell. Anyway, it could be that some of the people you are seeing have a natural tendency to turn their feet outward when they stand, so it's simply more comfortable.

[slash77]

Thanks for the info. I feel that having my right foot perpendicular restricts my turn and allows me to build up more torque in my backswing for more power.

[thatswhatshesaid]

That "natural tendency" is actually a muscle imbalance caused by tight and weak muscles. For proper kinetic chain performance, the feet should be aligned straight ahead, and the knees should be aligned with the toes. If someone walks with their feet pointed out (which most people who are slightly overweight will do), then they have strength and flexibility issues associated with their ankles, knees and hips.

 

Now back to the original question, if you have the proper strength and flexibility in your right foot (for right-handed golfers), then keep it perpendicular.

[mikpga]

I generally like to see the back foot perpindicular, however if a student is lacking in flexibility I don't mind flaring the back foot out a little.

[Tyler Durden]

I don't know that the "natural tendency" is a muscle imbalance. Everybody's body structure is different which can have a direct impact on somebody's stance. I consider my self to be in good shape (played football through high school and college and still workout 5 days a week) and I stand with both feet slightly flared. I don't do this because of a lack of flexibility, but I tend to get an overactive lower body, and I find that a slightly flared stance quites down my lower body. In other words, I find that it gives me a more solid base. All in all, I think the best stance for each individual is the one that puts them in the best position to make good swings at the ball, flared or not.