Prevent inside takeaway - "wall" drill

Prevent a Flat, Rolled Takeaway for a More Upright Swing

Sticks: 1

Config: Together

Focus: Short game

Drill Objective

This drill uses the pathpal as a "wall" to prevent golfers from taking the club too far inside and rolling the clubface open on the backswing, promoting a more upright and controlled takeaway.

Set-Up

Set Alignment Stick Angle: Set an alignment stick in the pathpal at a 90-degree angle, so it stands straight up like a wall.
Position the "Wall": Place the pathpal with the upright stick on the ground on your target line, slightly inside and behind your lead heel. Shawn prefers using an alignment stick on the ground in the tunnel under the 30 degrees mark which indicates heel position. The exact distance from your feet should be such that if your club goes too far inside on the takeaway, it will hit the stick.
Assume Address: Take your normal golf address position, ensuring the pathpal is positioned as a clear barrier to an inside takeaway.

Instructions

Slow Backswings: Begin with slow, controlled backswings without hitting a ball.
Work "Up the Wall": Focus on moving the club straight back and "up the wall" created by the pathpal. The goal is to keep the club working upwards on the backswing, without hitting the pathpal.
Prevent Rolling: Consciously avoid rolling your clubface open or taking the club too far to the inside. If you do, your club will strike the pathpal, providing immediate feedback.
Feel the Verticality: Concentrate on the sensation of the club moving on a more vertical plane during the initial phase of your backswing.
Hit Balls: Once you can consistently make practice swings without hitting the pathpal, you can progress to hitting golf balls with the same focus on an upright, unrolled takeaway.