Looking at a point 2-4 inches in front of ball for full shots, chipping and putting

[acegolfer]

This drill may work for someone. Look 2-4 inches in front of ball.

What this did for my full swing were

1. Moving the swing bottom in front of ball
2. Swinging the club instead of hitting at the ball.

At first, I was afraid that I would not hit the ball at all. But it worked instantly at the range that carried to the golf course.

I even use the same drill on short putts. Look at 2-3" in front where the ball should travel. Before this drill, even though I was looking at the ball, my mind was following the putter head. So I got tentative when I felt I was looping the putter, resulting all sorts of problems. I even missed a 18 inch putt.

Now, since my focus is getting the ball travel through a specific point, I don't know whether I'm looping or not. It feels like a more solid strike. And no more looking up. My eyes stays at the point for a long time after the ball went through.

[Harmonious]

Interesting you should bring this up. I have had the opportunity to play with a mini-tour player at our course (Hooters and Canadian Tour). He is a great putter, always rolls it end over end with great pace. I asked him for some tips. He told me to focus on the forward edge of the ball when putting, not the back edge. It helps to ensure the putter moves toward the target. And it works, at least for me.

I also try to focus on the forward edge of the ball when hitting out of fairway bunkers, again to ensure I'm moving the club forward, not down. Nothing worse than hitting a fat fairway bunker shot.

[iacas]

This drill may work for someone. Look 2-4 inches in front of ball.

See also Bobby Clampett's book

The Impact Zone . http://thesandtrap.com/forum/threads...Bobby-Clampett I'd caution against using this tip on pitches and soft chips, as the club should bottom out AT the ball for those types of shots.

[acegolfer]

See also Bobby Clampett's book

So no descending blow for pitches and chip shots?

[iacas]

So no descending blow for pitches and chip shots?

No. Quickest way to lead to chunks and thins. The clubhead's still going down a bit but you've NOT maintained the flying wedge and you've actually almost flipped on purpose. Elbows soft and close to your sides. You use the bounce for short shots - low point in front of the ball keeps the leading edge coming into the ground.