Shortcuts by Tom WatsonDecember 2, 2015
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If you “shift” your weight you will end up with your weight on the outside of your left heel. You must “rotate” your hip toward the left while the weight transfers to the “left heel”. If you carefully look at 95% of the pros, their weight get to their left heel to the point where their toes are off the ground. Let’s say in the downswing have your weight (your body segments) on top of your front foot which means your weight is to the left but if we look at what’s happening between your feet and the ground, the pressure is still to the right.
Whenever I evaluate a golfer's ability, I first check for a proper grip and a balanced, athletic setup. Then I watch the footwork, which ultimately determines how efficiently the player creates clubhead speed.
Proper footwork is a necessity for consistency and power, and there's a sequence you should strive for. Start with your center of gravity directly between the balls of your feet. Then as you take the club back, let your weight transfer slightly to the inside of your right foot and eventually toward the heel.
![Golf Golf](http://wpmediars.golfwrx.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ChambleeHipRestriction.jpg)
As you start the downswing, plant your left heel firmly to initiate the forward rotation of your hips. Replanting the left heel is an important lesson that my teacher, Stan Thirsk, taught me when I was growing up. It allows you to accelerate your swing and release the club powerfully through impact.
If your footwork is good, you'll be able to finish the swing in a posed position. Look for almost all of your weight on your front foot, with your back foot used only as a counterbalance.
ELEMENTARY WATSON
If you want to hit it longer, copy the power moves in other sports. Whether it's hitting a baseball, playing a forehand in tennis, throwing a pass or even kicking a soccer ball, you shift and turn your lower body—feet in particular—toward the intended target. You plant the lead foot, turn the hips and then go with the upper body or leg. That's an athletic move. Golf is the same.
If you want to hit it longer, copy the power moves in other sports. Whether it's hitting a baseball, playing a forehand in tennis, throwing a pass or even kicking a soccer ball, you shift and turn your lower body—feet in particular—toward the intended target. You plant the lead foot, turn the hips and then go with the upper body or leg. That's an athletic move. Golf is the same.
Tom Watson is a Golf Digest Playing Editor.