How to Create a Repeatable Golf Swing: Unlocking the Power of Your Hips
A consistent, repeatable golf swing isn’t just about upper body mechanics or gripping the club correctly, as many believe. It starts from the ground up, and nowhere is that more true than in your hips. Your hips are the engine of your swing. They transfer energy from your lower body into your upper body and ultimately into the clubhead. Therefore, when you learn to harness your hip rotation correctly, you’ll see improvements in both distance and accuracy, and your swing will become far more repeatable.
Posture that sets you up to win.
Why Hip Movement Matters
The hips play a critical role in every phase of the golf swing. During your backswing, your hips store energy through rotation. This creates torque that can be unleashed on the downswing.
On the downswing, a proper hip rotation initiates the kinetic chain. This is the sequence of movements that transfers energy from your legs through your torso and into your arms and club. Without efficient hip movement, the energy is disrupted, leading to inconsistent ball striking, loss of distance, and even potential injury.
Focusing on your hips also helps you maintain balance. A stable yet mobile hip joint allows your weight to shift smoothly from your back foot to your front foot. This balance keeps you grounded and in control throughout your swing. Focusing on the above also prevents compensations from happening, which, often in the arms, shoulders or lower back, can limit contact and cause erratic shots.
How To Create A Repeatable Golf Swing: Master Hip Rotation
Hip rotation is about turning your pelvis while keeping your upper body connected. On the backswing, your lead hip (left hip for right-handed golfers) should rotate slightly away from the target while your trail hip (right hip for right-handed golfers) moves back. This creates a coil in your core and stores energy.
On the downswing, lead with your hips. Initiate the movement by rotating your hips toward the target before your arms or shoulders. This sequence helps your arms follow naturally, creating a powerful, synchronised swing. Practice slow, controlled rotations to feel the movement without rushing your swing.
How To Create A Repeatable Golf Swing: Incorporate Hip Mobility Drills
Mobility is the key to repeatability. Tight hips restrict rotation, forcing compensations in your swing. Simple exercises, like hip openers, lunges, and seated rotations, can improve flexibility.
A particularly effective drill is the “hip bump” drill: stand in your address position and practice pushing your trail hip slightly toward the target as you start the downswing, then return to address. This teaches your body the feel of proper hip sequencing and weight transfer.
How To Create A Repeatable Golf Swing: Strengthen Your Core and Glutes
Strong glutes and a stable core support controlled hip rotation. Incorporate exercises like bridges, squats, and planks into your fitness routine. Strong glutes prevent your hips from swaying laterally, while a stable core allows for smooth rotational movement. Over time, this strength and stability make it easier to replicate the same swing mechanics, shot after shot.
How To Create A Repeatable Golf Swing: Practice with Intent
Repetition is crucial for creating a repeatable swing, but repetition without focus won’t help. When practising, concentrate on initiating the downswing with your hips, feeling the rotation, and noticing how the energy flows through your body. Start with half swings, gradually moving to full swings as you gain consistency. Video yourself, if possible, as it helps to see whether your hips are leading the motion correctly.
How To Create A Repeatable Golf Swing: Stay Patient and Mindful
Changing your swing mechanics, especially your hip movement, takes time. Be patient with yourself and stay mindful of how your body feels during each swing. Over time, the new motor pattern will become second nature, and your swing will feel more powerful, controlled, and, most importantly, repeatable.
The BioGolf Team Is Here To Assist
A repeatable golf swing starts with the hips. By mastering hip rotation, improving mobility, building strength, and practising intentionally, you’ll unlock a swing that’s both powerful and consistent. Your arms and hands will follow naturally, your ball striking will improve, and your confidence on the course will soar. Remember: the swing begins at your hips. Want more insight on how to train them? Book with BioGolf today.