Vertical Backswing Drill

Develop a Steeper Takeaway and Prevent a Flat Swing

Sticks: 2

Config: Together

Focus: Short Game

Drill Objective

This drill uses the pathpal as a "wall" to prevent the club from getting too shallow or inside on the backswing, encouraging a more upright and vertical takeaway for golfers who tend to swing too flat.

Set-Up

Set the Angle: Put an alignment stick in the pathpal at the 90-degree angle, making it stand perfectly perpendicular to the ground.
Establish the target line: Use an alignment stick to point towards the target. This should go in the tunnel below the 30-degree mark. The heel should be positioned against this stick
Position the "Wall": Place the pathpal on the ground so it forms a "wall" on your inside swing path at the top of your backswing.
Take your normal address position. The pathpal should be visible in your periphery, serving as a barrier for an overly flat takeaway.

Instructions

Slow Backswing: Begin with slow, controlled backswings without hitting a ball.
"Throw the Club Up": Focus on the feeling of "throwing the club up" or lifting it more vertically on the backswing.
Avoid the "Wall": The primary goal is to make your backswing without hitting the pathpal "wall." If your club strikes the pathpal, it indicates that your swing plane is too shallow or you're taking the club too far to the inside for your body type and desired swing.
Feel the Upright Motion: Concentrate on the sensation of the club working more upward rather than around your body.
Repeat and Refine: Continue making practice swings, internalizing the feeling of a more vertical backswing that clears the pathpal. Once comfortable, you can progress to hitting balls with the same focus.