Shoulder-Priority Takeaway & Waiter's Elbow Checkpoint
| Target Fault | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Laid Off | Takeaway |
Why This Drill Works (Kinetic Mechanics)
A laid-off top often leaves the club too far inside and stuck on the way down, approaching from too far inside: pushes and blocks, or a flip of the hands that produces snap hooks. Turning the lead shoulder to start the takeaway (instead of picking the club up outside or rolling it inside with the forearms) and setting the trail elbow in the waiter's-tray position at the top points the club down the target line.
How to Perform the Drill
The coach gives no set rep count. Our general guideline: 3 sets of 10 slow rehearsal reps, then half swings with a ball, adding speed only once the steps feel natural.
Address checkpoint: from a good setup, move the club straight back in line with the target line, not picked up outside and not rolled inside with the forearms.
Start the takeaway by turning the lead (left) shoulder first, letting it push the club back on line rather than letting the hands, wrists and forearms manipulate the club early.
Hinge the club into position and keep the trail (right) elbow low as you complete the backswing.
At the top, check the trail elbow: about 90 degrees, like a waiter carrying a tray. If it rides up high and away, the club tends to point across the line; if it never separates from your body at all, the club tends to lay off.
Swing Faults & Ball Flights Addressed
Comprehensive Guides Featuring This Drill
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