Welcome to Play Smarta regular GOLF.com game improvement column that will help you become a smarter and better golfer.
Early extension it’s a golf killer. When your hips are pulled towards the ball during landing, nothing good is going to happen. It’s a swing error that many recreational players struggle with and can kill your consistency if not addressed properly.
If you suffer from premature aging, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Need some proof? Just look at how many results come up when you google a cure. Suffice it to say, it’s a popular topic.
If you have come across this article, it is safe to assume that you are one of the many struggling with this disease. The good news is that we have a feeling that can help you cure it, and it comes courtesy of one of the best instructors out there, GOLF Top 100 Teachers Joe Plecker. See below.
A feeling to fix early extension
So we all know that early extension happens when the hips move TO the ball while falling. The key to eliminating it is to stop that motion as you take your swing.
Plecker has a great drill for this, and he calls it the Trail Foot Torque Drill.
Setting up for training is simple. All you need is a slider (or a paper plate will do) to place under your footprint. Once you’ve set them all up, come back to the top and then start doing your squat. However, when you get halfway down, stop swinging and push your trail leg behind you.
When you do this, you won’t be able to push your trailing hip into the ball and you’ll be forced to properly put your weight and pressure into your lead side. Additionally, this feeling of trail foot push will help create more torque (and power) in your swing.
If you’re someone who has a chronic habit of stretching early, give this workout a shot. If you can apply feel to your swing, you’ll soon eliminate early extension and hit the ball better than ever before.
Divot board
The Divot Board is a revolutionary golf training aid that gives players instant feedback on every swing. By showing exactly where your club contacts the ground, the Divot Board makes it easy to spot mistakes and correct them on the spot. Whether you’re practicing indoors or outdoors, this tool helps you improve your ball strike, swing path, and low-point control. With continued use, the Divot Board builds muscle memory so you can hit the ball better, hit fairer shots and lower your scores. Instant Feedback for Faster Learning Research shows that instant feedback can speed up learning by 50-70%. The Divot board provides real-time feedback on your movement so you can make quick adjustments and perfect your technique instantly. Improve Consistency Did you know that 70-80% of golfers struggle with inconsistent contact? The Divot board reveals exactly where your club hit the surface, helping you identify flaws and build a repeatable and reliable swing. Train Anywhere Compact and portable, the Divot Board can be used at home, on the highway, or even in the office. Its high-quality construction ensures durability through countless practice sessions. Proudly designed and assembled in the USA. Consistent use of a Divot Board will transform your practice routine. It’s the easiest way to gain awareness, develop better ball shots and see results faster.
View Product
