Golf Tips for Seniors: Shoulder Turn on the Backswing

By Robin All

Many senior golfers notice a loss of distance on their full shots — and often, the culprit isn’t just age or arthritis. It’s the backswing.

As we get older, it becomes harder to turn the back fully toward the target. This reduced windup limits how far the club can go back, even when the wrists are properly cocked to create that whipping action that generates power.

The problem often starts in the hips. When the hips don’t turn the desired 45 degrees, the shoulders can’t complete their 90-degree rotation. And if you look a little lower, you’ll find that even the legs, feet, and ankles play a part in restricting movement.

Watch professional golfers on TV or study swing sequence photos — you’ll see their feet and legs in motion throughout the swing. Too many senior players stay flat-footed, which locks up the body and drains power from the shot.

So loosen up, get those feet moving, and remember — a good turn starts from the ground up.

For more information about golf instruction, contact Robin All, PGA Life Member, at 803-238-1655. or [email protected]

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