Founder of the Jim McLean Golf School and a member of the PGA of America Hall of Fame since 2025, Jim McLean is one of the most influential golf instructors in modern golf. Here is an overview of his career, his accolades, his students, and his video lessons.
Who is Jim McLean?
Jim McLean is an American golf instructor and PGA Master Professional, known for founding a network of golf schools and for his structured approach to the swing. He is best known for his Jim McLean Golf Schools and his “X-Factor” theory.
He has coached more than 100 professional golfers on the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, and Champions Tour. In 2025, he was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame.
Jim McLean's Journey: From Player to Pro Coach
The player
A native of the Seattle area, Jim McLean won the PNGA Amateur Championship three times (1969, 1971, and 1972) and went on to become an All-American at the University of Houston.
Jim McLean's Philosophy
His method is based on analyzing the swings of thousands of golfers—from amateurs to professionals—to identify the fundamental principles. In particular, he popularized the “X-Factor”—the difference in rotation between the shoulders and hips—and describes his swing model in The Eight-Step Swing, one of his sixteen books. This structured approach made complex concepts accessible to a wide audience.
The Jim McLean Golf Schools
His most significant legacy is his network of golf schools. Founded in 1991 in Doral, the Jim McLean Golf School is now headquartered at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Florida, with locations in Miami Beach, Utah, Mexico, Madrid, and Seoul, among others. These schools use video and data analysis to help students understand and improve their swings.
The Coach of the Pros
Jim McLean has coached many top-level players, including Keegan Bradley—who had been working with him since 2009 when he won the 2011 PGA Championship—as well as Lexi Thompson, Cristie Kerr, Gary Woodland, Curtis Strange, and Greg Norman. He has played a major role in professionalizing the field of golf coaching.
Jim McLean's Record of Achievements
| Field | Landmark |
|---|---|
| Amateur player | 3 PNGA Men’s Amateur titles (1969, 1971, 1972); All-American at the University of Houston |
| Jim McLean Golf School | Founded in 1991 in Doral; currently headquartered at the Biltmore (Coral Gables, Florida) |
| Teacher of the Year | PGA of America (1994), Metropolitan Section (1986), South Florida Section (1996, 1998) |
| Hall of Fame | PGA of America (2025), PNGA (2003) |
| Books | Sixteen books, including *The Eight-Step Swing* |
| Notable Students | Keegan Bradley, Lexi Thompson, Cristie Kerr, Gary Woodland, Curtis Strange, Greg Norman |
Jim McLean's Lessons on Best Golf Tips
- Pre-shot routine and Waggle (Waggle): Master the waggle like the pros.
- Special for Seniors (Special for Seniors): Adjusting Your Swing as a Senior.
Do you like famous American coaches? Check out the profiles of Butch Harmon, David Leadbetter and Hank Haney.
FAQ About Jim McLean
Who is Jim McLean?
Jim McLean is an American golf instructor, a PGA Master Professional, the founder of the Jim McLean Golf School, and was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame in 2025.
Where does Jim McLean teach?
The Jim McLean Golf School is headquartered at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Florida; the school has additional locations in the United States, Mexico, Spain, and South Korea.
Which players has Jim McLean coached?
More than 100 professionals, including Keegan Bradley, winner of the 2011 PGA Championship, Lexi Thompson, Cristie Kerr, Gary Woodland, Curtis Strange, and Greg Norman.
What is Jim McLean's X-Factor?
It was this theory that made him famous: the difference in rotation between the shoulders and hips during the backswing, which is considered a source of power.
What lessons by Jim McLean can be found on Best Golf Tips?
Two lessons: mastering the Waggle How to swing like the pros and adjust your swing as a senior.
