The Official 'Double P' Blog

"For this week's swing tip I'd like to comment on the importance of alignment.

I often tell the amateurs I work with, "PGA" shouldn't stand for "Professional Golfers Association" but instead "POSTURE, GRIP and ALIGNMENT."

When I'm on the road working with PP, there are very few shots that he hits where I am not standing behind him checking his alignment. It sounds like an extremely basic concept, but it has a great effect on the path of the golf swing - which along with the club face, are the two factors which determine the direction of the golf ball.

It always amuses me that I see many PGA Tour Professionals practicing with a club on the ground (making sure they're aligned) - yet the amateurs I see out at Torrey Pines hitting balls feel they don't need the help of the club. Note - if the pros use this tactic when practicing, amateurs might want to incorporate it into their regimen.

There are so many factors that influence the direction of a golf shot. As elementary as it may sound, try practicing with a club on the ground to help your alignment as it can help you eliminate one variable of your swing."

Go low. Coach M.O.