Why You’ve Been Struggling at Impact for Years (Missing THIS Key)

Struggling with your iron shots? You’re not alone. Discover how mastering your impact position can transform your game, delivering greater distance and control through a structured swing.

Understanding the Key Fault at Impact

Many golfers face the common issue of inadequate structure in their lead arm and wrist at impact. Here’s what typically goes wrong:

• Lead Arm Folding: Instead of staying extended, the lead arm bends through impact.
• Left Wrist Over-Flexion: The lead wrist over-flexes, losing the ideal flat position for solid contact.
• Lack of Forearm Rotation: Insufficient rotation results in compensations that reduce consistency.

Without a stable foundation, your impact position—and consequently, your shot quality—suffers.

The Three Essential Movements You Need Through Impact

To achieve a robust impact position, focus on these three movements:

1. Thumb Downward Movement: Guide the clubhead downward toward the ball, ensuring precise contact.
2. Forearm Rotation: Rotate your lead forearm for a cohesive, powerful swing through impact.
3. Wrist Position Change: Transition your wrist into a slightly cupped position, maintaining power and lag.

Together, these movements maximize power and accuracy.

What Most Golfers Are Missing

The key fault observed is inadequate forearm rotation, causing over-extension in the wrist and bending in the lead elbow. This breakdown reduces power, consistency, and results in weak shots.

Step 1: The Lead Arm Fold Drill

This drill is an easy start to correcting your impact position:

1. Set Up: Place a tee in the ground.
2. Grip the Club: Hold with just your lead hand.
3. Make a Half Swing: Swing down to clip the tee.

Observe whether your lead arm maintains right posture or folds undesirably.

Step 2: The “Squeeze the Elbows” Drill

For building structure, use this drill with a small ball:

1. Place the Ball: Between your forearms.
2. Squeeze the Ball: Maintain pressure while swinging.
3. Make Small Swings: Ensure forearm rotation and wrist stability.

This improves rotation and solidifies the lead arm connection.

Step 3: Adding the Club and Landing the Clubhead Target-Side

Incorporate your club and aim to land the clubhead target-side:

1. Set Up to Tee: As if hitting a shot.
2. Hold the Ball: Keep squeezing between forearms.
3. Make Swings: Focus on clubhead landing ahead of the ball.

This ensures a clean downward strike and excellent compression.

Step 4: Building Speed and Holding the Correct Finish Position

Increase swing speed while maintaining structure with these steps:

1. Swing at 50%: Begin at half speed.
2. Check Elbows: Ensure lead elbow is slightly higher.
3. Avoid Wide Elbows: Maintain a narrow elbow position.
4. Rehinge Wrists: Keep clubhead close to body through impact.

This practice strengthens your impact position even at high speeds.

Why This Fix Matters: Benefits of a Structured Impact Position

Embracing this technique offers:

• More Distance: Increase energy transfer for longer shots.
• Improved Accuracy: Achieve straighter shot paths.
• Consistent Strikes: Reduce random misses.
• Enhanced Feel: Improve swing awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I know if my lead wrist is over-flexed?

A: Your lead wrist should be flat or slightly arched at impact. If it’s excessively bent, consider drills to improve.

Q: Can this help my driver swing?

A: Yes, these principles apply to all clubs, including drivers.

Q: Practice frequency?

A: 10-15 minutes a few times a week build muscle memory.

Q: If the ball drops during a drill?

A: Work on forearm rotation and wrist stability.

Q: Will this reduce my slice?

A: Yes, by correcting impact mechanics, you can reduce slices and hooks.

Final Thoughts: Unlocking Better Impact Starts with Structure and Rotation

Understanding and focusing on lead arm and wrist roles during impact can resolve issues that hinder your game. Practice these steps to enjoy more powerful and consistent strikes, directly impacting your scoring.