Master Stable Impact: Eliminate Downswing Lateral Slide and Convert Motion into Powerful Rotation

"Stop the Slide" Lead Leg Rotation

This simple but highly effective drill addresses one of golf's most common power leaks: sliding (excessive lateral movement) through impact. Sliding prevents proper hip rotation, kills clubhead speed, and leads to inconsistent contact. By placing the pathpal device as a physical barrier outside your lead leg, you force your body to use that leg as a stable anchor, immediately converting lateral movement into the powerful, centered rotation needed for a tour-quality strike.

Alignment Sticks Required: 1

PathPal Configuration: Split

Full Swing

What It Helps With

Consistent chipping

Stability

Power Generation

How to Set Up the PathPal

Set pathpal Angle: Adjust the pathpal to a 90-degree angle so it stands straight up.
Determine Placement: Take your normal address and note the position of your lead leg (front leg).
Position Device: Place the pathpal device on the ground, just outside the lead leg (where your foot is). Ensure it is close enough to act as an immediate obstacle if you slide, but far enough not to interfere with a proper, rotational move.
Final Check: The pathpal should stand ready to block any excessive lateral slide toward the target during the downswing.

Step-by-Step Drill Instructions

Practice Swings - Focus on Rotation: Take slow practice swings without a ball. Focus on starting the downswing and transitioning into impact by rotating your hips and torso, rather than shifting them laterally.
Avoid the Barrier: The key objective is to swing through impact without making contact with the pathpal.
Feel the Anchor: Feel your lead leg acting as a solid brace or anchor for your rotation. If you feel your body or lead hip moving into the pathpal, you are sliding.
Execute the Swing: Once the rotational movement feels smooth and you consistently miss the pathpal, hit golf balls with the same focus.
Analyze Feedback: A successful swing will see the club hit the ball solidly, and the lead hip and leg will turn around the pathpal device, maintaining stable rotation.