Struggling with inconsistent contact in your golf swing? Many amateur golfers battle with hitting behind the ball, chunking shots, or failing to make clean, crisp contact. Performance Golf and Top 50 Golf Digest coach Erika Larkin shares key insights and drills to help shift your weight properly, eliminate excessive hand action, and develop a more natural, fluid swing.
You can see her True Swing in action here:
Understanding the Root Contact Issue
If you frequently hit behind the ball or struggle with balance, it likely stems from improper weight transfer and overactive hands. Instead of forcing the club down, focus on allowing the natural momentum of your swing to work for you. A smooth, balanced movement helps the club reach the correct low point, leading to cleaner contact.
The Rope Drill
One of the best ways to develop a true, natural swing is using a simple rope drill. Holding a rope instead of a club helps reinforce proper sequencing and weight shift while getting a feel for the momentum and cadence of the swing:
- Set up in your normal golf posture.
- Swing the rope back and let it rest momentarily on your back shoulder.
- As it settles, initiate your downswing by shifting your weight forward before allowing your arms to naturally follow.
- Focus on a fluid, relaxed motion rather than using excessive hand action.
Step and Swing Drill
To further refine weight transfer and balance, try this drill:
- Stand with your feet together.
- As you begin your backswing, step forward into your lead leg before swinging through.
- This movement encourages proper weight transfer and helps prevent hitting behind the ball.
Loose Arms for a True Swing
A common mistake among amateurs is tension in the arms and hands. Imagine your arms are like a monkey swinging freely—let your body initiate the motion while your arms naturally follow. The more relaxed and fluid your arms are, the better your swing will sync up with your body’s movement.
Take This to the Course
Applying these concepts can transform your ball-striking consistency. Instead of forcing the club through the ball, trust the motion, shift your weight correctly, and let gravity work for you.
For a full breakdown of these drills in action, check out Erika Larkin’s live lesson on YouTube, where she walks through these techniques step by step!
