Fix Laid Off: The Waiter's Tray
Drill by The Art of Simple Golf
Why this drill works
Laid off is often caused by the trail shoulder internally rotating (flying elbow). The 'slight angle' feel promotes correct trail wrist set (cupped/extended) and external rotation in the shoulder, which squares the shaft and moves it onto a more neutral, rounded plane, helping to eradicate a slice.
How to do it
- 1
Backswing: Feel like your right hand is subtly holding a tray of drinks, with a slight angle so items might fall off, but not completely flat (1:51-2:01).
- 2
Avoid the 'traditional waiter' feel (completely flat palm), as that can lead to being too laid off (1:38-1:48).
- 3
Place your left hand on top and feel like you're making a more rounded golf swing, staying in front of yourself (2:07-2:12).
- 4
Practice swings: Focus on the feeling of that right hand holding the tray underneath, even without fully gripping the club with the right hand (2:30-2:38).
- 5
Execute the shot: Begin with shorter irons (9, 8, 7 iron) and don't try to hit it too hard (2:40-2:49).
- 6
Focus on the target: When hitting the ball, ensure you're still focused on your target and extending through the ball, not just the 'tray' position (3:32-3:34, 4:01-4:03).
