. The "X-Factor"- Swing Quietly and Carry a Big Stick By Eli Haskell, Physical Therapist MTT Contributing Writer Many golf coaches and teaching professionals report that a proper coil of the body provides power and consistency in the golf swing. Coil is usually defined as the difference in degrees that the shoulders turn in relation to the hips. This is also referred to as the "X-factor." While a straighter upper spine allows the shoulders to rotate more freely (see July 2000 Metro Tee Times - The Untapped Turn), this is only a portion of the "X-factor" equation. Another important physical requirement for generating maximum coil comes from strong, flexible hips. Modern instructional methods promote a "quiet" lower body (i.e., minimal right hip and leg movement) during the back swing. This approach increases coil in the hip joint, trunk and surrounding musculature. The only way to physically maintain a stable lower body and generate coil is with adequate right hip flexibility, specifically in the hip rotators, gluteals, and iliotibial band. With the required flexibility the result is an invisible or "quiet" production of coil with very little external movement of the pelvis. More often, you see golfers with excessive movement in the pelvis and lower right side during the back swing. A tight right hip is often the problem and the golfer will compensate for limited mobility by laterally swaying, straightening the right knee, or even reverse pivoting. The result is decreased coil. If you find that you can't consistently achieve maximum coil without producing a swing flaw, you may have an underlying physical problem. A lack of strength and flexibility in and around the right hip could be to blame. It is estimated that at least 80% of golfers have limited hip flexibility, that if corrected would dramatically improve their coil potential and add yards to their game. The following is one simple exercise to improve hip flexibility. If done correctly, you should feel the stretch along the backside of the hip and buttock area. Eli Haskell is a licensed physical therapist and works exclusively with golfers to improve performance and treat golf-related injuries. For more information call 1-877-764-0361 or e-mail COGolfFitness@aol.com. Additional golf fitness tips on the web: www.BodyBalanceGolfFitness.com