Impact & ReleaseBeginnerFixes: Topping the ball

Topping Fix (3-Point Low Point Control)

Curated PGA Drill by US GOLF TV

Focus Area

Low Point

Rep Guidance

3 sets of 10 slow rehearsal reps

Equipment

Golf club, alignment stick (optional)

Skill Level

Beginner

Video walkthrough by US GOLF TVWatch on YouTube ↗

Why This Drill Works (Kinetic Mechanics)

Low point follows weight. By moving the low point forward via correct setup, arm direction, and weight shift, you ensure the club hits the ball first and then the ground, eliminating the top shot.

How to Perform the Drill

Follow these step-by-step instructions. Rehearse slowly to build proper motor patterns before adding full swing speed.

  1. 1

    Step 1

    Ball Position Check: Feet together, ball centered between heels. Take one step lead, one step trail (ball should be off the shirt buttons for irons).

  2. 2

    Step 2

    Lead Arm Path: In backswing, swing the lead arm straight back and up (between chin and shoulder) to move the low point forward.

  3. 3

    Step 3

    Weight Shift Check: At the finish of the swing, ensure your knees are touching. This confirms 70-80% of your weight has shifted to the lead foot.

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

ToppingThin ShotsImproper Low PointHanging Back

Comprehensive Guides Featuring This Drill

How to Stop Topping and Thinning the Golf Ball

You top or thin the ball because the club's low point is behind the ball or your swing center rises before impact. Fix it by keeping your sternum steady, shifting pressure onto your lead foot before impact, and committing to a descending strike that clips the turf after the ball: not by trying to lift the ball up.

Not sure this is your real fault?

Upload one swing video and our AI will identify whether topping the ball is actually what's costing you strokes, using physics-backed metrics and a practice plan matched to what it finds. Your first analysis is free.

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