How to Get Your Hands Through the Ball at Impact

By
Updated July 25, 2009
cart path near a putting green
  • DESCRIPTION
    cart path near a putting green
Learning to swing the club properly is about having your legs, hips, arms and hands work together to produce a positive result when you make contact with the golf ball. The hands' role is to continue to drive the swing once the hips have gotten your swing going.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate
  1. Address the golf ball and get in an athletic position. Stand about 18 to 24 inches from the ball, with the ball midway between your front and back leg. The distance from the ball depends on the club you use. If you are using a shorter iron, standing 18 inches should suffice. If you are using a driver, 24 inches is the distance to stand from the ball. Adjust your distance by your ability to reach the ball. Make sure your knees are bent. This will put your hands in a position to drive through the ball cleanly instead of being jammed if you stand too close to the ball.
  2. Begin your swing by rotating your hips to the right. It is important that you start your swing with your hips and have your hands follow. If you lead with your hands and not your hips, you will not be able to generate power in your golf swing.
  3. Check the position of your hands once you have started your downswing. The bottom of your left hand (the pad of your small finger) should lead the club to and through the ball. Both of your wrists will be cocked and you will not unfurl them until your hips have cleared the hitting zone.
  4. Drive through the ball with your hips and left side. You are now in position to finish your swing with your hands. Your left hand will come through the ball with force and then you will finish your swing by snapping your right hand at impact. This will provide you with the power you need to drive the ball down the fairway.
  5. Don't stop your swing when you have made impact. To get the full benefit of the final wrist snap of your right hand, finish with your hands high. Your hands should be at shoulder height when you complete your swing.
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Tips & Warnings

  • Go to the range and practice the rhythm of your golf swing at least three times per week