Golfing Tips: How to Get a Better Shoulder Turn

Are you lacking any sort of power off the tee or, perhaps you feel as though your shoulders and waist aren’t flexible enough to turn the way they used to when you were younger?

If so, there’s a good chance it’s down to the lack of a good shoulder turn. It could be hampering your contact with the ball, causing you to slice, as well as reducing the distance the ball travels. 

The importance of a good shoulder turn

A good, full shoulder turn in golf generates power, which lets you generate decent clubhead speed. You should be aiming to use the muscles in your shoulders and back to help with your swing, rather than relying on smaller arm muscles. Your arms simply don’t have the strength needed to time the swing correctly, which makes ball strikes inconsistent.

And, a lack of consistent ball striking and power leads to shorter tee shots and longer approach shots, which increases the chances of a higher score!

Aim for a shoulder turn of 90 degrees

It’s common for golfers to only turn their shoulders around 70 – 75 degrees in the backswing. They may start with a proper golf swing takeaway, but once their hands rise above waist level, they continue to move the club upwards using just their arms, forgetting to turn the shoulders.

Don’t worry if this is something you do, as you can easily learn to get a full shoulder turn, regardless of how flexible you are. Try some gentle stretching exercises to loosen up your back and shoulders, such as seated twists. Keeping your hips facing forwards, turn from the waist to each side, making sure to turn your shoulders too.

Ideally, your shoulder turn should be reaching 90 degrees, although it doesn’t have to be exact. But the closer you can get, the better your chances of generating some serious power.

A driving range session gives you the chance to practise your swing. Or, why not book a golf lesson with an experienced PGA Golf Professional to help you perfect your shoulder turn?