Effects of Flared Stance on Golf Swing Kinetics and Kinematics

Abstract

This research focuses on the biomechanics involved in the average player's golf swing. Better understanding of golf swing biomechanics allows for development of techniques that are beneficial for performance and long-term health. Foot flare – angling the toes of the feet laterally – is commonly used by golfers to increase rotational mobility, improve weight transfer, and reduce rotational joint stress during the swing. This study aimed to determine whether adopting a 45° flared stance, compared with a parallel stance, produces significant changes in important golf swing mechanics. To investigate this, we analyzed multiple biomechanical outcomes including X-factor, ground reaction forces/weight transfer patterns, pelvic rotation, upper-torso rotation, shank inclination at impact, O-factor, lead hip inclination, and lead wrist ulnar deviation, and swing speed. This research was conducted in the Fall 2025 semester.