Lead Elbow Down Drill (Anti-Laid-Off)
Curated PGA Drill by GolfNow
Backswing
3 sets of 10 slow rehearsal reps
Golf club, alignment stick (optional)
Intermediate
Why This Drill Works (Kinetic Mechanics)
When the lead elbow points out in front of the body, the club gets pulled around flat and behind the golfer, laying it off. Keeping the lead elbow pointing down keeps the club steeper and closer to vertical, preventing the shallow, laid-off position that leads to steepening or an over-the-top move in transition.
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
Take your normal address and start the backswing.
- 2
Step 2
Feel the front (lead) elbow point down toward the ground throughout the backswing, instead of letting it point out in front of the body.
- 3
Step 3
Check that the club stays closer to perpendicular with the ground rather than swinging parallel to it — a laid-off club is usually paired with the lead elbow pointing forward.
- 4
Step 4
Rehearse to the top slowly first, pausing to confirm the lead elbow is still pointing down before adding speed.
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.
