How to Fix a Push in Golf

Ah, the dreaded push in golf. It's that frustrating moment when you watch your ball sail straight to the right (for right-handed players), completely ignoring your careful setup and swing. If you've been there, you're not alone. Let's break down what causes this pesky shot and how you can start sending your ball straight down the fairway again.

Understanding the Push

Before we get into fixing it, let's figure out what a push actually is. A push occurs when your golf ball starts right of your target line and, unlike a slice, stays on that line without curving further right. It's like your ball just decided to take a little detour, ignoring your aim entirely.

So, what's going on here? A push generally results from a combination of swing path and clubface angle at impact. If the clubface is square to the path but the swing path is moving right, you get a push. Imagine trying to throw a frisbee but releasing it at the wrong angle—it's going to fly off in its own direction, no matter how hard you try.

Understanding this might not make the ball go where you want it, but it gives us a solid starting point. Now let's get into the nitty-gritty of fixing it. Alright, alright, I know I promised not to use that phrase! But hey, it's time to get to work.

Check Your Grip

The first place to look when addressing a push is your grip. A common culprit is a grip that's too weak, meaning the hands are rotated too far to the left on the club handle. This can open the clubface at impact, sending your ball on that unintended rightward path.

To fix this, try adjusting your grip by rotating your hands slightly to the right. Here’s a neat trick: when you grip the club, try to see two or three knuckles on your left hand (for right-handed players). This simple adjustment can help square up the clubface at impact.

But hey, don't overdo it! You don't want to swap your push for a hook by over-rotating. It's all about finding that sweet spot. And while you're at it, keep those clubs clean. After all, a clean clubface means better contact. You might want to grab The Club Washer to keep your clubs in top shape.

Inspect Your Stance

Next up, let's talk about your stance. If you're lining up too far to the right, you're basically telling the ball to head that way. It's like giving your dog a treat and expecting it not to come running—good luck with that!

To fix your stance, set up a straight line from your target to your ball and ensure your feet, hips, and shoulders are parallel to this line. Use a club or alignment stick on the ground to guide you. This can help you aim squarely at your target and avoid the dreaded push.

If you're still struggling, take a step back and reassess. Sometimes, a slight adjustment can make a world of difference. And once you've nailed that stance, you'll feel more confident stepping up to the ball.

Adjust Your Swing Path

Now, let's dive into the actual swing. If your swing path is moving too far inside-out, your ball is going to push right. It's like trying to drive straight by turning the steering wheel in the wrong direction—not gonna work out well.

To fix this, focus on swinging more along the target line. You can use a practice drill with two alignment sticks or clubs on the ground, forming a narrow corridor. Aim to swing the club through this corridor, helping your swing path stay on track.

This might feel awkward at first, but with practice, it'll become second nature. And don't forget to keep those clubs clean for better performance—remember The Club Washer can be your trusty sidekick here.

Mind Your Clubface

Even if your swing path is spot-on, an open clubface at impact can still send your ball right. It's like trying to shoot an arrow with the bowstring twisted—you're missing the target, no matter how good your aim.

To square up the clubface, focus on your wrist position at impact. The lead wrist should be flat, not cupped. Practice hitting balls with a half-swing, focusing on keeping that lead wrist flat through impact. This drill can help you feel the correct position and translate it into your full swing.

Remember, a clean clubface gives you the best chance at square contact. If you're noticing dirt or grime, take a moment to clean it up with The Club Washer. Clean clubs, better shots—it's as simple as that.

Work on Timing and Tempo

Timing and tempo can also play a big role in whether you're pushing shots. If you're rushing your downswing, you might not be giving the clubface enough time to square up. It's like trying to bake a cake in half the time—it just doesn't work out.

To improve your timing and tempo, try a simple drill: count "one" on your backswing and "two" on your downswing. This can help you maintain a steady rhythm and avoid rushing your shots. Over time, you'll develop a more consistent swing that stays on target.

And remember, improvements take time, so be patient with yourself. Golf's a game of inches, and every small tweak can lead to big results.

Check Your Ball Position

Ball position can also affect whether you push your shots. If you're playing the ball too far back in your stance, you'll likely make contact before the clubface has had a chance to square up.

For most shots, the ball should be positioned in the center of your stance for irons and slightly forward for drivers. Make sure your ball position aligns with your swing and body mechanics, helping you hit straighter shots.

Experiment a bit to find what works best for you. Sometimes, a small adjustment in ball position can have a significant impact on your accuracy.

Practice, Practice, Practice

As with any aspect of golf, practice is key. Set aside time to work on your swing mechanics, focusing on the areas we've discussed. Whether it's grip, stance, or swing path, consistent practice will help you develop a more reliable, straight shot.

Consider hitting the range with a specific focus in mind. Maybe one session is all about grip, and another focuses on swing path. Breaking it down into manageable parts can make the process less overwhelming.

And don't forget to keep your equipment in good condition. A clean clubface can make a world of difference, and that's where The Club Washer comes in handy. Clean clubs, sharper shots.

Seek Professional Help

If you're still struggling, don't hesitate to get some professional guidance. A golf instructor can provide personalized feedback and help you pinpoint the exact cause of your push. Sometimes, an experienced eye can spot things you might have missed.

Remember, even the best players have coaches. There's no shame in seeking a little help to improve your game. Plus, it can be a fun and rewarding experience to work on your skills with a pro.

So, whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, don't be afraid to reach out for assistance. You're investing in your game, and that's a smart move.

Final Thoughts

Fixing a push in golf is all about understanding the mechanics and making small, targeted adjustments. From grip to swing path, each aspect plays a role in sending your ball straight down the fairway. And remember, keeping your clubs clean can improve your game too—our The Club Washer is a handy tool for that. Now, go out there and start hitting those fairways with confidence!