Improving Ball Striking & Controlling Swing Low Point

Introduction

As a PGA Associate and Golf Coach, one of the most common issues I see among golfers of all skill levels is inconsistent ball striking. Striking the ball cleanly and controlling the low point of your swing are essential for maximizing distance, accuracy, and consistency. This guide will walk you through key concepts and drills to refine your ball striking and improve your control over the low point of your swing.

Understanding Low Point Control

The low point of your swing refers to the lowest position the clubhead reaches in its arc around your body. In an ideal iron shot, the low point should be in front of the ball, allowing you to compress the ball and take a divot after impact. With a driver, the low point should be just behind the ball to optimize launch and spin.

Common Mistakes Affecting Low Point Control

  1. Early Release (Scooping) – Releasing the club too early leads to fat or thin shots.
  2. Reverse Pivot – Shifting weight incorrectly during the swing leads to poor low point control.
  3. Poor Pressure Shift – Not shifting weight effectively through impact leads to inconsistent contact.
  4. Incorrect Ball Position – Playing the ball too far forward or too far back alters the strike location.

Key Techniques to Improve Ball Striking

1. Proper Setup & Ball Position

  • For irons: Position the ball just ahead of center.
  • For driver: Position the ball off the lead heel.
  • Maintain a slight forward shaft lean with irons to encourage a downward strike.

2. Mastering Weight Shift & Pressure Control

  • At setup, maintain a balanced stance with weight evenly distributed.
  • In the backswing, shift pressure to the inside of your trail foot.
  • As you transition to the downswing, feel your weight move into your lead side before impact.

3. Hands Ahead at Impact

  • Ensure your hands lead the clubface at impact for better compression.
  • Use slow-motion swings to feel proper shaft lean and ball-first contact.

4. Club Path and Angle of Attack

  • With irons, focus on a slight downward strike to ensure ball-first contact.
  • With a driver, feel a sweeping motion with an upward angle of attack to optimize launch conditions.

Drills to Improve Ball Striking & Low Point Control

1. Towel Drill

  • Place a towel about 6 inches behind the ball.
  • Practice hitting shots without contacting the towel, promoting ball-first impact.

2. Alignment Stick Low Point Drill

  • Place an alignment stick on the ground, perpendicular to your stance, just ahead of the ball.
  • Focus on making your divot start beyond the alignment stick to ensure proper low point control.

3. Step-Through Drill

  • Take your normal setup, then step forward with your trail foot as you swing.
  • This drill encourages proper weight shift and prevents an early release.

4. Gate Drill for Centered Contact

  • Place two tees slightly wider than your clubhead and practice hitting shots through the gate.
  • This helps you strike the ball more consistently in the center of the face.

Summary

Controlling the low point of your swing and improving ball striking require a combination of proper setup, weight shift, and impact positioning. By incorporating these drills and techniques into your practice routine, you will develop a more consistent, solid strike that leads to lower scores and better overall performance.

Next Steps:

  • Practice these drills with slow, controlled swings before adding speed.
  • Record your swing or use a launch monitor to track improvements.
  • Work with a PGA Professional for personalized feedback.

By focusing on these fundamentals, you’ll gain the confidence and skills needed to hit crisp, controlled golf shots more consistently. Happy practicing!

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