Frankenstein Drill (Shoulder Isolation)
Curated PGA Drill by Athletic Motion Golf
Body Awareness
3 sets of 10 slow rehearsal reps
Golf club, alignment stick (optional)
Intermediate
Why This Drill Works (Kinetic Mechanics)
Isolates the movement of the shoulder blade to train the difference between shoulder retraction (pulling back) and protraction (pushing forward). This teaches the golfer that true arm extension (appearing straighter) is a function of the shoulder socket movement, which is necessary for width.
How to Perform the Drill
Follow these step-by-step instructions. Rehearse slowly to build proper motor patterns before adding full swing speed.
- 1
Step 1
Stand like Frankenstein with your arms held straight out (3:04).
- 2
Step 2
Keep your chest and hips as still as possible.
- 3
Step 3
Without pulling your arm, try to retract one shoulder and protract the other.
- 4
Step 4
Feel that the movement/bend in the swing comes from the shoulder, not the elbow (3:22-3:33).
- 5
Step 5
Practice this motion by putting your hand against a wall for feedback (2:44-2:49).
What Good Feels Like
Focus on smooth tempo and maintaining body connection through impact. Your body and club should move as a single synchronized unit.
Common Mistake to Avoid
Rushing transition before completing backswing or lunging upper body forward towards ball at impact. Keep movement controlled.
