Steep Fix: Trail Elbow in Front (Nunchuck/Ball)
| Target Fault | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Steep Downswing | Transition/Connection |
Why This Drill Works (Kinetic Mechanics)
When the trail elbow points behind the body in transition, the shaft immediately steepens and pitches out in front [5:56, 6:05]. Keeping the elbow in front promotes better connection and a flatter angle of attack.
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.
Exaggeration Drill (Nunchuck): Hold the club by the clubhead with your lead hand on the grip. Use your lead hand to pull the club forward during the downswing, actively pushing your trail elbow in front of your body. Exaggerate this movement 3-5 times.
Feedback Drill (Smart Ball): Place a soft training ball between your forearms. Keep the ball securely trapped during the downswing and through impact. If the ball drops, your trail elbow has moved behind your torso, steepening the shaft.
Swing Faults & Ball Flights Addressed
Comprehensive Guides Featuring This Drill
Coming over the top happens when your shoulders spin open in transition before your arms drop the club into the slot, dragging it across the target line. Stop it by delaying the shoulder turn, letting your arms fall vertically first, and feeling the club approach from inside the ball-to-target line.
A flying trail elbow is the elbow lifting up and away from your side so it points behind you at the top. It is often set at address by the trail forearm rotating over the grip. It only needs fixing if it puts the club across the line, gets the elbow behind you in transition, or straightens early into impact. Fold it down, then keep it in front.
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