Eliminate Early Extension and Improve Club Delivery

Heel-drag exit drill

This drill helps golfers combat early extension by encouraging the sensation of the club's heel "dragging" through impact, leading to a lower club exit, more open body, and proper club delivery for better contact and power.

Alignment Sticks Required: 1

PathPal Configuration: Together

Full Swing

What It Helps With

Better Impact Position

Reduce early extension

How to Set Up the PathPal

Position the pathpal: Place the pathpal on the ground directly in line with your target. Its primary function in this drill is to provide tactile feedback if your club handle stands up too much. The specific angle isn't stated, but it should be positioned to interact with the club if early extension occurs, so it should be just above your hands when at address.
Assume Address: Take your normal full swing address position

Step-by-Step Drill Instructions

Focus on Heel Drag: As you swing through impact, mentally focus on the feeling of the club's heel dragging along the ground, or feeling like it's leading the clubhead through the impact zone. This encourages a lower exit path for the club.
Open Up: Work on opening your body more through impact, allowing your hips and shoulders to rotate towards the target.
Avoid Early Extension Triggers: Consciously try to prevent the common early extension flaws:

Toe Digging: Avoid letting the toe of the club dig into the ground.

Handle Standing Up: Prevent the club handle from rising sharply ("standing up") through impact. This is where the pathpal would provide feedback if struck.

4. Embrace Feedback: If you feel the club (especially the handle area) hit the pathpal, it's instant feedback that you're likely extending early or the club is standing up. Use this to refine your motion.