Mastering Torque in Your Golf Swing: A Guide to Reducing Early Extension
In this edition of Play Smart, we delve into how you can generate more torque in your swing with a simple technique focused on your trail foot. Credit: Joe Plecker
Welcome to Play Smart: Game Improvement Insights
Welcome to Play Smart, a dedicated section that aims to elevate your golf game through insightful tips and techniques.
Understanding Early Extension
Early extension is a common issue many golfers face—it occurs when the hips move toward the ball during the downswing. This swing fault severely impacts consistency and performance. If you find yourself struggling with early extension, rest assured you’re among many seeking solutions. A quick online search reveals numerous resources discussing remedies, highlighting how prevalent this challenge is.
A Solution: The Trail Foot Torque Drill
Professional golf instructor and GOLF Top 100 Teacher Joe Plecker has developed a valuable technique to alleviate early extension. This method focuses on generating torque in your swing through your trail foot.
Key Steps for the Trail Foot Torque Drill:
- Setup: Place a slider or a paper plate under your trail foot.
- Backswing: Execute your normal backswing.
- Downswing Initiation: As you reach the halfway point of your downswing, pause the swing.
- Trail Foot Movement: Push your trail foot behind you.
This slight adjustment will restrict the thrust of your trail hip towards the ball, compelling you to shift your weight correctly to your lead side. Additionally, this action enhances the feeling of torque, leading to increased power in your swing.
Why You Should Implement This Drill
If early extension has hindered your golfing performance, give the Trail Foot Torque Drill a try. By employing this technique regularly, you may substantially improve your swing consistency and enhance your ball-striking ability.
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By mastering the Trail Foot Torque Drill and utilizing training aids like the Divot Board, you can significantly reduce the impact of early extension in your golf game, ultimately leading to improved performance and enjoyment on the course.
Ready to take your golf game to the next level? Start implementing these techniques today!

