In order to hit the ball straight, the path of the club must be moving down the target line toward the target. Second, the club face must be straight or square at impact. This drill focuses more on the path development on the downswing by making you aware of how your lead arm moves toward the ball.
There are three above-the-body photos that show the positions of normal downswing motions. each one of these downswings will produce three different ball flights. The correct photo, which shows the left arm on the initial downswing running parallel to the target line, is the ideal way to start the downswing. The two pieces of boards on the ground indicate target line and address line. This initial move will be beneficial for you to incorporate into your downswing.
To practice this drill, visualize the target line. Once you start your initial downswing, make your lead arm run parallel to the target line. Use clubs on the ground or alignment sticks to help you see this move clearly when you practice the drill. Let's not forget - - this move is only one part of hitting the ball straight. The other part would be squaring up the club face at impact, so release the club at impact.
You will be happy you tried this drill, especially if you can't find swing plane or ball flight control. Good luck, play well, and have fun.
John Nelson is a South Florida PGA Hall of Fame Class A Teaching Professional and Director of Instruction at the Golf Academy located at The County Club of Coral Springs, Coral Springs, Fl. 954-752-4500 x 204, email: jnelson@ccofcs.com, Web page: www.ccofcs.com.
