I use an “L to L” drill to help students understand body movement in the swing. Width is crucial to consistent ball striking and more distance, and this drill promotes keeping your arms and body in sync through impact. Once students can focus on the swing and not the ball, they’re able to finish effortlessly in an “L” position that eliminates the need for compensations in the swing and body.
With an 8-iron, make a shoulder turn to your backswing and follow these checkpoints to make sure you’re in the proper position:
— Have your back facing the target.
— Load your weight on the inside of your back foot.
— Create an “L” shape with your arms and club
From there, let the club swing down to hit the ball. Again, follow these checkpoints:
— Finish in a balanced position on your front foot.
— Have your belt buckle pointing toward the target.
— Your trail foot should be toe down with little weight applied.
— Your arms should extend in front of your left shoulder to create an “L” shape.
Start with a slow tempo and focus on swinging to the finish before gradually speeding up. I like students to start with the ball on a tee so they focus on positions and not worry about contact. Once we get success off the tee it’s easier to transition to the grass. After a few practice sessions, you should notice improved ball striking with less effort and no tension in your lower back.
Brian Schippel, PGA, is lead instructor at the South County Golf Academy, which specializes in teaching juniors, at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Course in Mission Viejo. He can be reached at (714) 231-0313 or bschippel@pga.com.
