Full Definition
Hip alignment at address should be parallel to the target line for most shots, matching shoulder and foot alignment (parallel left for right-handers aiming at the target). Closed hips at address (pointing right of target) reduce room for the downswing and promote an in-to-out path. Open hips (pointing left) reduce backswing coil and promote out-to-in path. Proper hip alignment is part of the four alignment fundamentals: feet, knees, hips, and shoulders all parallel to the target line, with the clubface square to the actual target.
See How Hip Alignment Affects YOUR Swing — In Real Time
GOATY AI watches your swing live through your camera, speaks coaching cues in your ear while you swing, and measures the exact biomechanics — including hip alignment — that determine your ball-striking quality.
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GOATY tip: Check hip alignment by placing a club across your hip bones while at address and stepping back to check if it is parallel to your target line. Hip alignment errors are invisible from your address position. Book a free live lesson to see your own hip alignment data in real time during your practice session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hip Alignment in golf?
The direction the hips point at address, influencing the swing path and rotation available through impact.
Why does hip alignment matter for scoring?
Hip alignment at address should be parallel to the target line for most shots, matching shoulder and foot alignment (parallel left for right-handers aiming at the target). Closed hips at address (pointing right of target) reduce room for the downswing and promote an in-to-out pat...
How can I improve my hip alignment?
GOATY tip: Check hip alignment by placing a club across your hip bones while at address and stepping back to check if it is parallel to your target line. Hip alignment errors are invisible from your address position. GOATY AI measures your hip alignment in real time during live practice sessions — giving you instant feedback without needing to film and review video after the fact.
What is a good hip alignment for an amateur golfer?
The benchmark is the GOAT Model — elite swing mechanics scored at 97.3. GOATY AI shows you exactly how your hip alignment compares to this elite standard and coaches you toward it session by session.