Next time you go to the range try this simple iron play station drill. All you require is 4 alignment sticks or clubs as an alternative.
One stick is placed behind the ball as an extension of your ball to target line and another parallel to this as an extension of your feet line (Picture 1). From here place two sticks three to four inches apart diagonally across the target/feet line at approximately 45 degrees (Picture 2)
Once in your setup position calibrate your primary movement away from the ball by feeling your arm/shoulder pressure stays down as the club moves with width to a midpoint between the target lines. (Picture 3)
Once in the primary position the first diagonal stick should be place at 45 degrees directly under the club head (Picture 4) and the second diagonal stick placed two to three inches forward of that (Picture 5).
The goal of the drill to is create some visual awareness and feels not only as you start your movement but during the pre impact delivery phase of the swing.
Tracing the midpoint allows you to develop path
Tracing the leading edge of the club face to the diagonal sticks develops face control
Tracing the second diagonal stick closer to the target during the downswing develops low point/contact control.
Start the drill by rehearsing slowly and controlled without hitting the ball. Feel the pressure down through the arms and shoulders as you find the midpoint of the target lines and match the face to the diagonal lines.
Once you get comfortable coil to the top of your swing then uncoil down towards the second diagonal line which is 2 to 3 inches further forward. This slight shift forward created by the down-coil ensures your low point control/contact is solid. Path will be your ability to come back to the midpoint of the target lines and face control will be your ability to match the 45-diagonal line with the leading range of the face.
Sounds like a lot but it’s extremely easy to understand and follow once you get started.
After you feel comfortable now start to hit some shots. I like the player to move to the primary position (diagonal stick one) pause and check everything’s where it should be for a second then coil and deliver!!
Please watch the online video if you’d like a closer look at how it works and gain some extra insights on shot shaping. Enjoy and look forward to checking in during next months article.
Written and delivered by Stephen Deane
Viya Golf Head International Development Coach
