In golf, a “closed stance” refers to the position of a golfer's feet and body alignment at address, where the feet and shoulders are positioned left of the target line (for right-handed golfers) or right of the target line (for left-handed golfers). It is the opposite of an open stance, where the feet and shoulders are positioned right of the target line (for right-handed golfers) or left of the target line (for left-handed golfers).
Here are a few key points about a closed stance:
- Foot Position: In a closed stance, the lead foot (left foot for right-handed golfers, right foot for left-handed golfers) is positioned closer to the target line than the trail foot. The lead foot is rotated inward, while the trail foot is positioned farther back and slightly open. This foot positioning promotes a closed body alignment relative to the target.
- Body Alignment: With a closed stance, the golfer's shoulders, hips, and overall body alignment are also closed or angled to the left of the target line (for right-handed golfers) or to the right of the target line (for left-handed golfers). This means the golfer's body is pointing more towards the left side of the target, creating a closed position.
- Purpose: Golfers may adopt a closed stance for various reasons. One common reason is to promote a draw shot shape (right-to-left for right-handed golfers, left-to-right for left-handed golfers). The closed stance encourages an in-to-out swing path and a clubface that is slightly closed to the swing path at impact, resulting in a shot that curves from right to left (for right-handed golfers) or from left to right (for left-handed golfers).
- Considerations: While a closed stance can be useful for certain shot shapes or to counteract a specific swing tendency, it's important to consider the potential impact on alignment and swing mechanics. A closed stance may require adjustments in setup and swing to ensure proper ball striking and consistency. It's recommended to experiment with different stance positions and seek guidance from a golf professional to determine the most suitable stance for your game.
It's worth noting that the use of a closed stance is not universal among all golfers, and individual preferences and swing characteristics may vary. Some golfers may find success and improved shot outcomes with a closed stance, while others may prefer a more neutral or open stance. Ultimately, the choice of stance depends on personal comfort, swing tendencies, and desired shot shapes.
Closed Stance: An address position in which the golfer's left foot (right-handers) is set closer than the right foot to the target line, creating a right-of-target alignment.
