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Golf tip of the week: Left heel position on backswing determined by build and stature

PHOTO PROVIDED A golfer's physical build and height determines if the left heel should lift or not.

Many golfers ask the question: Should the left heel lift off the ground on the backswing (the right heel for the left-handed golfer)? A golfer’s build and stature determines if the heel should lift or not.

For example, if a golfer is medium to short in stature keeping the heel on the ground is beneficial. However, a taller golfer with flexibility may benefit by allowing the left heel to lift off the ground.

If the heel lifts off the ground automatically when taking the club back, then so be it, but mechanically lifting the heel serves no purpose.

If the heel is up on the backswing, one must return the heel to the ground on the downswing, creating another move.

Allowing the left foot to roll over while keeping the heel on the ground, creates a good weight transfer, the right foot for the left-hand golfer.

If a golfer’s weight has transferred properly, he or she should be able to lift the left foot when fully coiled, the right foot for the lefty.

Don’t forget to enjoy this great game called golf.

Rick Musselman, a golf author and professional, owns Musselman’s Golf and gives lessons in his high-tech golf swing simulator at his golf facility in Williamsport.

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