A common fault among amateur golfers is their inability to align themselves correctly on the tee, something which often amplifies their existing swing faults.

Looking at the picture above, marked with red lines, you will notice a number of faults in the set-up position.
1. My hands are very upright.
2. My spine angle is not straight.
3. My shoulders are open in relation to my feet and hips.
The second picture shows a more balanced set-up that should allow me to return to a square position through impact.

Quick fixes:
Assume the address position without holding a golf club. Now, let your arms hang freely towards the ground. Standing in this position, join your hands together – you will find that your shoulders, arms and hands are more relaxed.

Standing in this position, lift your chin slightly and arch your lower back. By doing this, your shoulders should pull back, encouraging a straight spine angle at address.

Take note of the straight right arm at address. This opens the shoulders in relation to the rest of your set-up. By firming up your left arm, relaxing your right arm and tilting your head a fraction behind the golf ball, you should get your shoulders square in relation to the rest of your set-up.

It’s a great idea to check your set-up while standing in front of a mirror side-on. Once again, assume your address position, look into the mirror and ensure that you can see at least half of your left forearm at address.

This instruction is by Richard Pickering, the head PGA professional at Royal Cape Golf Club. To contact Richard, call 021 761 6552 or e-mail him on clubpro@mweb.co.za.