Mastering Hip Clearance in the Golf Swing
Unlocking Pro-Level Power
Why Hip Clearance Matters
Clearing—or rotating—the hips effectively during the downswing is one of the key differences between elite players and struggling amateurs. When done well, it allows the entire kinetic chain to fire in sequence, generating effortless power and ball-striking consistency. When done poorly, it stalls energy transfer, leads to timing breakdowns, and forces the hands and arms to overwork—resulting in inconsistency and frustration.
At ATX Golf Performance, we train athletes to move with intention, not just intensity. And hip clearance is a critical piece of the puzzle.
Key Differences: Pros vs. AmateursProfessionals
Professionals initiate ground reaction forces and begin their lateral weight transfer early, which sets up a clean and efficient hip rotation. Their lower body drives the sequence, allowing energy to flow smoothly from the ground up. What separates the professional move isn’t just rotation—it’s sequencing. The best players begin rotating their hips as they shift weight, blending lateral and rotational forces in perfect timing. This creates a whip-like effect that flows through the torso, arms, and clubhead, generating both speed and control.
Amateurs often struggle with weight shift and timing. Many rotate too early or delay their weight transfer, which leads to blocked shots or an over-the-top swing path. Instead of the lower body driving the sequence, the hips may stall or slide, forcing the upper body to compensate. This breakdown in sequencing causes timing errors, inconsistent strikes, and a loss of power.
The Feel vs. Real Challenge
When players try to mimic professional hip motion, the feedback is often the same: “This feels awkward” or “I feel unstable.” That’s normal. Most golfers are more used to compensating with upper body effort than generating stability and motion through their hips.
A foundational drill we often use at ATX Golf Performance starts with a wall:
Wall Posture Drill:
Stand with your heels 3–4 inches away from a wall.
Lightly let your glutes rest against the wall—don’t lean back, just make gentle contact.
From this position, engage your core and feel your pelvis stack more neutrally under your spine.
Practice small hip turns back and through while maintaining light wall contact.
This drill resets your posture and builds awareness of how the hips should move and support the rest of your swing.
Coaching Cue: “Lead with the Hips, But Let the Ground Start the Move”
One of the most common misconceptions we see is players trying to “turn fast” with their hips. But speed alone isn’t the answer—it’s about ground connection and timing. At ATX, we train golfers to feel how pressure shifts into the lead side and initiates hip rotation naturally. This connection to the ground is what fuels real power.
Training Takeaways
Don’t force the hips—sequence them. Think weight shift first, then rotation.
Use the wall drill to find your center. Posture and pelvic control are essential for clean hip movement.
Stability = mobility. You need a strong base to move athletically. That starts with how you address the ball.
Build from feel to full swing. Mastering hip clearance begins with slow, focused movement.
Elevate Your Swing with Expert Coaching
Whether you’re a competitive player or a dedicated weekend golfer, mastering your lower body mechanics can transform your game. Our team at ATX Golf Performance specializes in building customized improvement plans based on biomechanics, movement efficiency, and real data—so you can train like the pros.
Book a session today to start moving with more speed, stability, and confidence.