Make The Turn Challenge #4: Barefoot Balance

By Jeff Ritter

When reduced to its most basic essentials, you could say that good golf is comprised of one's ability to use the eyes, hands and feet to produce the desired outcome for any golf shot. The eyes take in information, aid in decision making and help set the intention for play. The hands are the connection to the club acting as the primary movers of the shaft and controllers of the club face. The feet provide the connection to the turf and are responsible for supporting a powerful and rhythmic swing.

A large portion of the golfing population has terrible footwork. Furthermore, being that humans have the luxury of standing on two feet, most aren't aware of how terrible their balance really is. Balance doesn't only affect your ability to hit great golf shots, it's literally one of the most important skills related to living powerfully as you get older.

This challenge is all about committing to doing the "little things" that add up to big results. If you've never been to a yoga class or done regular balance work, what seems like a simple task will be very frustrating at the outset. One of the cool things about this exercise is that you'll quickly notice a huge difference in how much you can improve this skill. Work on your balance for a week, demonstrate to your friends and then have them give it a try. You'll look like an Olympic gymnast compared to them as they struggle to stay upright!

Prove that you have the ability to hold balance poses, as well as hit shots with proper foot action and you'll own a valuable skill to elevate your game both on and off the course.

BENEFITS

Improved Balance

Proper Weight Placement

Correct Foot Action

Jeff Ritter is the CEO/Founder of__ MTT Performance__. The program operates out of Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach, Calif. Follow him on Twitter at @mttgolf*