The Step-Through Drill (Hip Sequencing)
Curated PGA Drill by JChownGolf
Transition
3 sets of 10 slow rehearsal reps
Golf club, alignment stick (optional)
Intermediate
Why This Drill Works (Kinetic Mechanics)
Forces the lower body to initiate the downswing sequence extremely early. The step ensures weight transfer to the lead side and prevents the upper body from rushing, as the lower body gets a massive head start.
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
Set up to the ball normally.
- 2
Step 2
Bring your lead foot (left foot) over to touch your trail foot (right foot), keeping the club in the middle.
- 3
Step 3
Begin the backswing.
- 4
Step 4
As the club goes back, step the lead foot back to its original position (step through).
- 5
Step 5
Plant the foot and swing through.
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.
Swing Faults & Ball Flights Addressed
Comprehensive Guides Featuring This Drill
Improve weight shift by loading pressure into your trail foot early in the backswing, then shifting it to your lead side to start the downswing: before the arms or club move. Most golfers do this backwards: they reverse pivot going back, then hang on the trail foot at impact. Fix the sequence with step and pressure drills, not a lateral slide.
Slow the backswing down so your body turn, not your hands, starts the club moving, then let the lower body initiate the downswing before your arms react. Most tempo problems are really rushing problems: the transition fires too fast. Train a 3:1 backswing-to-downswing ratio with counting or metronome drills until it's automatic.
