How to Stop a Push in Golf

Pushing your golf shots can be as frustrating as finding out your favorite pizza place has closed down. You're set up perfectly, your swing feels smooth, but the ball veers right, and you're left scratching your head. If you're looking to stop pushing your shots, you're in the right place. We'll cover some practical steps, common causes, and quick fixes to get your ball flying straighter. Let's get into it.

Understanding the Push

First, let's clarify what a push shot is. A push occurs when the ball starts straight but veers off to the right (for right-handed golfers). Unlike a slice, which curves dramatically, a push maintains a straight trajectory but heads in the wrong direction. This is usually caused by an open clubface or a swing path that's too much from the inside. Identifying the root cause is essential for getting back on track.

Imagine your swing as a dance routine. If the rhythm's off, you're stepping on toes and bumping into walls. Similarly, if your swing path isn't aligned, your ball's bound to find itself in unwanted territory. But worry not, you don't need to be Fred Astaire to get it right.

Check Your Grip

Believe it or not, your grip can make or break your swing. If your grip's too weak, the clubface tends to open up, resulting in pushed shots. To fix this, try a slightly stronger grip. This doesn't mean channeling your inner Hulk; just rotate your hands a bit to the right on the club. You should see two or three knuckles on your left hand if you're a righty.

A stronger grip helps close the clubface at impact, minimizing the chance of a push. But don't go overboard, or you'll risk turning that push into a hook. It's all about finding the sweet spot.

Pro tip: While you're adjusting your grip, give The Club Washer a go to keep your clubs nice and clean. A clean grip gives you better control and feel. After all, nobody likes a slippery handle.

Align Your Stance

Your stance sets the stage for your swing. If you're aligned towards the right, it's no wonder your shots follow suit. Take a moment to reassess your alignment. Stand behind your ball and pick a target line. Ensure your feet, hips, and shoulders are parallel to this line. Picture railroad tracks leading straight to your target.

Practicing alignment on the range can save you a lot of heartache on the course. Use alignment sticks or even just a couple of clubs laid on the ground to guide you. Proper alignment helps promote a more consistent swing path and reduces the likelihood of a push.

Focus on Your Swing Path

Your swing path plays a significant role in where your ball ends up. An inside-out swing path is a common culprit for pushed shots. Picture a baseball pitcher throwing sidearm. The ball starts on target but ends up way off. Your golf swing works similarly.

To correct this, practice swinging more down the line. Visualize your club moving along a straight path through impact. Drills like the "gate drill," where you place tees on either side of the ball, can help reinforce this concept. Swinging through the gate without hitting the tees indicates a good path.

Watch Your Clubface

Even with a perfect swing path, an open clubface can ruin your day. To fix this, focus on your wrist position during the swing. Your lead wrist should be flat at impact, not cupped. A flat wrist helps square the clubface, reducing the chance of a push.

Practice with half swings, focusing on your wrist position. Gradually build up to full swings, maintaining that flat wrist. Over time, you'll notice more consistent ball flight and fewer pushed shots.

And while you're perfecting that wrist action, don't forget to use The Club Washer to keep your clubface spotless. A clean clubface provides better feedback and helps you identify any swing issues more accurately.

Maintain Proper Posture

Your posture affects your swing dynamics. If you're hunching over like Quasimodo or standing too upright, you're setting yourself up for trouble. Start with a slight knee bend and a straight back. Your arms should hang naturally, and your weight should be balanced on the balls of your feet.

Proper posture allows for a more natural and effective swing. You'll find it easier to make a full turn and maintain control through impact. Regularly check your posture during practice sessions to reinforce good habits.

Timing and Tempo

Ever tried to dance to a beat you can't follow? That's what happens when your swing tempo is off. Rushing your swing can lead to an open clubface and pushed shots. Focus on a smooth, even tempo from start to finish.

Consider the "1-2-3" drill: count "1" during your backswing, "2" at the top, and "3" through impact. This rhythm helps synchronize your movements, promoting a more consistent, controlled swing. A good tempo is like finding the perfect rhythm in a song; it just feels right.

Practice with Purpose

Practicing aimlessly won't fix a push. Set specific goals for each practice session, whether it's grip, alignment, or swing path. Focus on one aspect at a time to avoid overwhelming yourself. Quality practice beats quantity any day.

Utilize drills and exercises designed to address specific issues. Keep track of your progress and adjust your practice plan as needed. Remember, even pros have coaches to guide their practice routines. Be your own coach, and don't be afraid to seek professional help if you're stuck.

And while you're at it, keep your clubs in tip-top shape with The Club Washer. A clean club is a happy club, and happy clubs lead to better swings.

Take it to the Course

Once you've worked through the range, it's time to hit the course. Don't expect miracles right away; change takes time. Start with shorter clubs and work your way up. Focus on one change at a time during your rounds.

Pushed shots can be a pain, but with dedication and the right approach, they're fixable. Keep experimenting, stay patient, and remember: even the best players have off days. When frustration creeps in, take a step back, breathe, and remind yourself why you love the game.

Final Thoughts

Fixing a push in golf takes a mix of awareness, practice, and patience. By focusing on grip, alignment, swing path, and other key factors, you can get your shots back on track. And while you're out there perfecting your swing, don't forget to give The Club Washer a try. Keeping your clubs clean can make all the difference in your game. Happy swinging!