Knees at address

[Brent]

Ben Hogan, in his book “Five Lessons” is quite clear and adamant that the knees should be bent in toward each other at address. I was surprised to see Tathata golf teaching otherwise. Could you please elaborate on the reasons for advising against Hogan’s teaching in this regard.

[Tathata Staff]

Brent

Watching some videos of Hogan, you will notice during his takeaway that his knees move into a position much more similar to what we subscribe at address than how he sets up to it. I would agree with you that Mr. Hogan setup with his knees bent in toward each other, especially his back knee but notice how much that changes as he moves halfway into his backswing. You will notice this in Gary Player as well. Go to Day 18 or 40 and watch as these players both build width in their backswing what is happening to their knees as well. You will see them both load down into their legs as they push their knees apart.

We choose to set students up with the knees already slightly pushed apart to make it easier to create energy and move effectively in the backswing. If students setup with their knees turned in, there is a good chance the student will remain in this position throughout the backswing and will struggle in transition and the downswing to create the same “surfing” motion you see from Mr. Hogan and Mr. Player.

Thanks Brent, great question.