Position A is a key move in the golf swing that all great ball strikers make. It is when your club is parallel to both the ground and the target line with the end of your grip pointing at the target. Hitting Position A ensures that your club approaches the ball on an inside, shallow path along the target line with a square clubface at impact. In this article, GOLF Top 100 Lifetime Achievement Teacher Rick Smith explains the importance of finding Position A in your swing, regardless of your swing technique.
To help golfers understand and feel what Position A is in their swing, Smith provides a slow-motion rehearsal drill. By setting up two clubs parallel to the target line and gripping side closest to the body to the ball of the foot, golfers can practice hitting Position A at the top of their backswing. This drill helps golfers groove the feeling of being on plane and hitting the correct angle of approach. Once golfers have mastered the feeling of Position A, they can put it into action with a gate drill that Smith recommends.
The gate drill involves setting up an alignment rod parallel to the target line and positioning two golf balls at a 45-degree angle from the tee ball. The goal is to swing from the inside and hit the middle ball without clipping the outside balls. For golfers struggling with a slice, Smith suggests adjusting the setup by dropping the trail foot back a few inches. This adjustment helps create space for the inside move and encourages a full release and a hook, which can help combat a slice. Using a training aid like the Rukket Impact Mat can further enhance practice and improvement in hitting Position A.
Overall, hitting Position A in the golf swing is a crucial move that all golfers should focus on to improve their ball striking. By understanding and practicing this key position, golfers can experience more consistency and success in their game. Rick Smith’s expert tips and drills provide valuable insights for golfers of all levels to enhance their swing and improve their overall performance on the course. Incorporating these techniques into practice sessions can lead to significant improvements in ball flight and shot accuracy. Mastering Position A can be a game-changer for golfers looking to take their game to the next level and achieve greater success on the course.