Drill For Right Elbow?

[Long Dugg]

Hey guys!
I have a problem getting my right tricep horizontal and my elbow pointing to the ground at the top of my backswing. I don't seem flexible enough to do this correctly as my tricep seems to be more vertical to the ground (compact to my side). I can swing my right arm only and set this position fine but when I add my left arm it is not comfortable. I think not getting this right is causing a very flat plane. Are there any good drills to help acheive this position? I am right handed.

[TeachingPro]

Re: Drill For Right Elbow?

I'm not 100% sure I understand your question, but I'll try. If I had to picture you at the completion of your backswing you are very flat because with both hands holding the club you can't get your right forearm vertical under the club??

If this is the case, check these things:
1. Spine angle at address: You might be too flat or too upright which inhibits your arm and shoulder turn.
2. Shoulder turn: You might not be able to get your arms in the correct position because your shoudlers have not yet turned 90 degrees.
3. Maybe there is a physical reason: it could be you need to do some stretching in the arms and shoulders.

In terms of drills, geez, there are no drills that will help you get to the position if you physically can't do it. If you are able to get to it but aren't, then there a few drills I can give you.

If you absolutely can't get to this position where the club is above your right shoulder with the 'arm triangle' - then don't even try. Shorten your back swing to around 3/4rs then and develop a swing around that position. I have lots of students that have this problem and we just build a shorter swing.

[kiwi]

Re: Drill For Right Elbow?

May have this all wrong but you sure your not trying to bring your left shoulder under on the backswing?Trying lifting your head a bit higher and at address and don't overswing on the backswing,theres nothing wrong with a 3/4 backswing you can still generate good power.

[gord962]

Re: Drill For Right Elbow?

I have a couple drills to get you into the correct position at the top.

First, club in hand in your set up position, raise your arms to parallel. Second, cock your wrists 90* so your club is pointing skyward. Third, turn your shoulders 90* away from the target. This should get you to the correct position.

To get to this position with a proper backswing, try this: Again, club in hand in your set up postion. Start your take away only with your arms. When your club is parallel with the ground, stop. Next, cock your wrists 90* so your club is pointing skyward. Last, turn your shoulders 90* away from the target. This is a bit backwards on how the backswing takes place, but it teaches you the movements needed to be made. Work on this until it is comfortable. When you have the positions engrained into your muscles, try bledning the moves together. As it becomes more comfortable you will notice that you are starting the take away with you shoulders, as you are supposed to start the take away.

[Long Dugg]

Re: Drill For Right Elbow?

Thanks everyone! I am physically capable to get into position but as you said I do need some stretching. I have always had an around the body swing (driver mostly) that is pretty flat. I am trying to get my swing a little more upright to prevent blocks and hooks and also help my timing. Gord I like the drill, I think if I can ingrain this feeling I can eventually reach it w/out struggling. Thanks

[Long Dugg]

Re: Drill For Right Elbow?

Practiced on the range today after using drill and feeling better. Also practiced pushing off right foot on transition to downswing, seemed to do alright as long as I didn't go after it hard because then I hooked.