Stopping Hitting Ground Before The Ball

Goal: Stop hitting "fat" shots (hitting the ground before the ball) and instead achieve ball-first contact where the divot occurs in front of the ball.

Key Fundamentals & Tips:

• Setup & Balance: Ensure the handle isn't too low (club at waist height) and maintain balance. Position the ball neutral to slightly forward with a little weight on the lead foot.

• Body Movement: A successful swing requires both shifting weight and rotating the body. Doing only one often leads to hitting the ground early.

• Avoid Swaying: In the backswing, stay within the frame of your feet and keep your arms connected to your body rather than letting them drift independently.

• Preferred Miss: It is better to err on the side of hitting the ball slightly thin (low on the face) rather than hitting the ground first, as this still advances the ball.

Recommended Drills:

• The "Swoosh" Drill: Swing a knotted towel or club upside down and focus on hearing the "swoosh" sound on the target side of the ball, which indicates proper rotation and speed at the right moment.

• Chair or Wall Drill: Stand a hand-width away from a chair or wall. Practice shifting and rotating until your belt buckle faces the target and your knees touch, ensuring you clear your hips without sliding.

• Obstacle Drills: Place a tee 1-2 inches in front of the ball and try to hit it, or place a towel a few inches behind the ball to force yourself to avoid hitting the ground early.