Downward Strike Drill

Improve Your Chipping and Pitching by Hitting Down on the Ball

Config: Together

Focus: Short Game

Drill Objective

This drill uses the pathpal to encourage a more vertical takeaway and a steeper angle of attack, forcing you to hit down on the golf ball first for more consistent chips and pitches

Set-Up

Place the pathpal training aid on the ground behind the golf ball. The distance can be adjusted based on the golfer's comfort and skill level

Instructions

Take a few practice swings, focusing on a more vertical takeaway with an early wrist hinge to avoid hitting the pathpal
On the downswing, maintain a steeper angle of attack to ensure you strike the ball before the ground
If you come in too shallow or from too far inside, you will hit the pathpal, providing immediate feedback
Once you are consistently missing the pathpal on your practice swings, proceed to hit the ball, focusing on the same downward strike

Benefits

Steeper attack angle

Improves contact

Hitting Down on the ball

Eliminate Scooping

Prevent Fat and Thin Shots

Grayson Zacker

Director of Instruction, Lead Master Instructor

Jim McLean Golf SChool

2015, 2024: SFPGA Southern Chapter Teacher of the Year
5: Times recognized as Golf Digest Best Young Teachers in America
Top 40: Top 40 Instructor under the age of 40

""Million different ways to use this to help your golf game. I'm really enjoying using it with my students and I hope you grab one and use it as well.""