Drill 1: Towel Drill for Rotation and Club Path
Problem: Slicing or inconsistent contact due to an outside-in swing path. Fix: Promote a full shoulder turn and proper club path by engaging core rotation. Steps: 1. Place a folded towel under your armpits and grip it with both arms. 2. Take slow-motion practice swings, focusing on keeping the towel tucked and rotating your shoulders. 3. Gradually increase speed while ensuring your arms stay connected to your chest to avoid excessive lateral movement.
Drill 2: Alignment Stick Gate Drill
Problem: Over-the-top downswing or poor swing plane. Fix: Create a visual guide to train an on-plane swing path. Steps: 1. Insert two alignment sticks into the ground at a 45-degree angle to form a "gate" just wider than your clubhead. 2. Practice swinging through the gate without touching the sticks, emphasizing a shallow approach to impact. 3. Repeat to ingrain the feeling of swinging along the target line.
Drill 3: Impact Bag Drill for Lag Retention
Problem: Hitting behind the ball or losing power due to early wrist release. Fix: Strengthen your ability to maintain lag and strike the ball first. Steps: 1. Position an impact bag or pillow in front of you at your normal ball position. 2. Take half-swings focusing on keeping your lead wrist flat and the clubhead trailing behind until impact. 3. Feel the hands leading the clubface through the bag to reinforce proper sequencing.
Drill 4: One-Handed Swings for Tempo and Control
Problem: Inconsistent tempo or overactive arms. Fix: Simplify mechanics to sync body rotation with arm movement. Steps: 1. Practice full swings with only your lead hand (left for right-handed golfers) on the club. 2. Prioritize smooth rhythm and a compact backswing, avoiding jerky arm-pulls. 3. Alternate with full two-handed swings to carry over the improved tempo.
Drill 5: Headcover Drill for Posture and Stability
Problem: Swaying or losing posture during the swing. Fix: Anchor lower body stability and maintain spine angle. Steps: 1. Place a headcover under the collar of your shirt at the base of your neck. 2. Hit balls while focusing on keeping the headcover in place by stabilizing your upper body. 3. Avoid lateral movement or dipping your head, ensuring a consistent setup position.
Final Tips for Success:
- Practice each drill 2-3 times per week for 10-15 minutes.
- Use slow-motion reps to cement muscle memory before adding speed.
- Film your swing periodically to track progress and adjust flaws.