Build a stable foundation

Your core powers your pitching, and the important thing is it can only work with a solid foundation

THE best pitchers of the ball control their action with their core. The coiling and uncoiling of the upper body dictates your rhythm and pace, and keeps the hands and arms quiet – an essential ingredient of consistent striking and distance control.

Hugh Royer, founder of the South Carolina Golf Centre at Shaftesbury Glen in Myrtle Beach says that your core can only function correctly when it is supported by a stable base.

“It needs something to turn against and if your lower body is weak or loose, it cannot rotate effectively,” he points out.

So here is a drill to firm up your lower half and tighten your pitching action:

1 Upper body coil

In a sound pitching action, the core moves the club. Its big muscles permit a smooth and repeatable tempo. A good upper body coil also helps keep the clubface under control by reducing the contribution needed from the hands and wrists.

2 Resist leg movement

Make your regular pitching set-up. Now place a club between your legs like this. Make a left-arm only backswing, but resist any leg movement by applying pressure with the shaft. That is the resistance you want to feel in your swing.

3 Rock solid lower body

A rock solid lower body locks you into position, keeping the low point of the swing consistent and aiding the correct contact. But it also promotes a good coil as your shoulders can rotate against resistance from the knees and hips.