How PROS Release the Clubhead!

Unlock the secrets of a powerful golf swing with our step-by-step guide to mastering the clubhead release. Learn how to achieve perfect compression and consistent ball-striking like a pro in just four weeks.

Table of Contents

• Step 1: Visualize the Clubhead Release
• Step 2: Imaginary Wall Technique
• Step 3: Skip the Rock
• Step 4: Hip and Grip Timing
• Step 5: Lag and Rotation
• Step 6: Abbreviated Follow-Through
• Step 7: Decisive Downswing
• Step 8: The Shaft Lean Myth
• Step 9: Square the Clubface
• Step 10: Drills for Proper Release
• Step 11: 4-Week Practice Plan
• Drills Summary
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Step 1: Visualize the Clubhead Release

Begin by changing your mental image of where the club releases. The common misconception is releasing it too close to the body. Instead, envision releasing out front for better compression. Use the nine-iron drill: set the ball back slightly in your stance, and aim to hit it low while maintaining your clubhead release visualization.

Step 2: Imaginary Wall Technique

Create an imaginary wall in front of you to correct the release position. As your left hip pivots, maintain a stable clubhead to hammer into this ‘wall’, aiding lag and body rotation instead of premature hand action.

Step 3: Skip the Rock

Think of your trailing arm action like skipping a rock. This technique ensures your trail elbow stays ahead while creating necessary lag and delaying the release until your body rotation guides it.

Step 4: Hip and Grip Timing

Timing the deepest point of your swing can enhance your release. When your left hip hits its peak, your hands should simultaneously move forward, naturally inducing release with rotation.

Step 5: Lag and Rotation

Lag requires precise release with body rotation. Keeping your clubhead behind your hands as you rotate helps achieve compression and effective shots, minimizing premature clubhead release.

Step 6: Abbreviated Follow-Through

Holding off your finish prevents early release. Pros ‘hold off’ to stop the club under control, maintaining a direct line with the body instead of a high, floppy follow-through.

Step 7: Decisive Downswing

Commit to a powerful downswing—don’t slow down to adjust hand alignment. The key is synchronized hip and hand movement for an explosive, controlled impact.

Step 8: The Shaft Lean Myth

Forward shaft lean alone doesn’t rectify a poor release; it must accompany good rotation. Leaning correctly with rotation creates a consistent, strong impact.

Step 9: Square the Clubface

Ensure your clubface is squared correctly by focusing on wrist and forearm alignment. Use ‘palm to the ceiling’ and ‘knuckles down’ techniques to achieve stable, rotational control through impact.

Step 10: Drills for Proper Release

Enhance your release through the wall drill and bucket analogy. Properly executed drills train your club to align correctly through impact.

Step 11: A 4-Week Practice Plan

Follow our detailed 4-week practice routine to cement the release technique in your game. Weekly goals and drills progressively build your skills for lasting improvement.

Drills Summary

• Ball-back catch-first drill — achieve late release and compression.
• Imaginary wall drill — perfect your hip and grip alignment.
• Skip-the-rock drill — promote trail elbow lag.
• Under-the-rod finish — maintain hand height through follow-through.
• Palm-to-ceiling drill — square your clubface effectively.
• Bucket visualization — prevents early casting and ensures correct release direction.

FAQ

Releasing Too Early?

Check for telltale signs like clubhead past hands at impact or high follow-through. Adjust using drills for lower flight and improved contact.

Slowing Down the Downswing?

Avoid slowing; instead, maintain backswing patience then accelerate through the downswing with speed for synchronized movement.

What is ‘Palm to Ceiling’?

This wrist technique promotes a stable impact, aligning left and right hand for a controlled release and eliminating chicken winging.

Practicing Without Balls?

Use mirrors or visualize; practice hip-grip feeling and the wall drill at home for an efficient swing.

Forward Shaft Lean Concerns?

It’s beneficial if combined with proper rotation. Incorrect reliance can affect consistency.

Changing Release Habits?

With focused drills and feedback, expect improvements in 2-4 weeks.

Conclusion

Seamlessly incorporate these clubhead release techniques for a pro-level golf swing. Use visualization, rotation, and feel-based cues for improved timing and compression. Consistency and practice are your paths to mastery. Regularly track progress and receive feedback to refine your swing dynamics, ultimately mastering the clubhead release for optimal performance.