An incorrect swing path is one of the most common issues affecting amateur golfers. Whether you struggle with a slice, hook, or inconsistent ball striking, targeted drills can help correct your swing path.
Understanding Swing Path
Swing path refers to the direction the clubhead travels through impact. An outside-to-in path causes slices. An inside-to-out path causes draws and hooks. A square path produces straight shots.
Using a Hitting Mat for Swing Path Training
Modern hitting mats with swing path feedback technology make it easy to identify path issues. These mats have colored surfaces that show your clubhead's path through impact. Green marks indicate a square path. Red marks indicate an outside-to-in path.
Corrective Drills
The Towel Drill
Place a towel six inches behind the ball on the target line. If you hit the towel on your downswing, your swing path is too shallow. Practice without hitting the towel.
The Gate Drill
Set two tees just wider than your clubhead, one on each side of the ball position. Practice hitting through the gate without touching either tee.
Alignment Stick Drill
Place alignment sticks at 45-degree angles to create a visual path. Practice swinging along the sticks to train proper club path.