Backswing & TakeawayIntermediateFixes: Narrow backswing arc

Trail Arm Radius Preservation Takeaway Drill

Curated PGA Drill by Danny Maude

Focus Area

Backswing

Rep Guidance

3 sets of 10 slow rehearsal reps

Equipment

Golf club, alignment stick (optional)

Skill Level

Intermediate

Video walkthrough by Danny MaudeWatch on YouTube ↗

Why This Drill Works (Kinetic Mechanics)

Prevents trail elbow collapse at top of backswing, maximizing swing arc radius for effortless lever power.

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

    Place a small ball or headcover between forearms at address.

  2. 2

    Step 2

    Take club back to P3 (chest high) keeping trail arm extended and forearms equal distance.

  3. 3

    Step 3

    Ensure trail elbow does not bend past 90 degrees at top.

  4. 4

    Step 4

    Swing down maintaining wide arc past lead shoulder.

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

WidthNarrow arcArm collapseRadius extension

Not sure this is your real fault?

Upload one swing video and our AI will identify whether narrow backswing arc 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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