Shallow the downswing plane with chipping

Ensure a Proper, Shallow Downswing Plane with your wedge

Sticks: 1

Config: Together

Focus: Short game

Drill Objective

This drill utilizes the pathpal at a specialized, shallower angle (40 degrees) to effectively teach junior golfers how to get the club "under plane" on the downswing, addressing the common issue of swinging over plane due to training aids designed for adults.

Set-Up

Set the Angle: Set an alignment stick in the pathpal at a 40-degree angle. This is a shallower angle than typically used for adults, making it more suitable for a junior golfer's size and swing tendencies.
Position the pathpal: Place the pathpal on the ground on the outside of the intended downswing path, slightly in front of the golf ball. It should be positioned such that if the golfer swings "over plane," they will hit the stick.
Assume Address: Have the junior golfer take their normal address position. The pathpal should serve as a barrier, guiding the club to swing underneath it on the downswing.

Instructions

Slow Practice Swings: Have the junior golfer make slow, controlled practice swings without a ball.
Work "Under Plane": Focus on the feeling of bringing the club underneath the pathpal on the downswing. The goal is to avoid hitting the pathpal, indicating the club is correctly shallowing out.
Correcting "Over Plane": If the golfer has a tendency to swing "over plane," they will likely hit the pathpal. Provide immediate feedback and guide them to adjust their path to clear the stick.
Feel the Shallowing: Encourage the junior golfer to feel the club dropping into a shallower position on the downswing.
Hit Balls: Once the junior golfer can consistently make practice swings without hitting the pathpal, they can progress to hitting golf balls with the same focus.
Repeat and Reinforce: Continue practicing this drill to help the junior golfer develop the muscle memory for a proper, shallow downswing plane.