How to Fix a Push in Golf: Why Your Ball Might Be Secretly Plotting Against You

How to Fix a Push in Golf: Why Your Ball Might Be Secretly Plotting Against You

Golf is a game of precision, patience, and sometimes, pure frustration. One of the most common issues golfers face is the dreaded “push.” A push occurs when the ball flies straight but veers to the right (for right-handed golfers) without any curve. It’s like your ball has decided to take a detour without consulting you. But fear not! This article will dive deep into the causes of a push and provide actionable tips to fix it. And, just for fun, we’ll explore why your golf ball might secretly be plotting against you.

Understanding the Push: What’s Going Wrong?

Before fixing a push, it’s essential to understand why it happens. A push is typically caused by an open clubface at impact combined with an inside-to-out swing path. Here’s a breakdown:

  1. Open Clubface: If your clubface is open relative to your swing path at impact, the ball will start right of your target.
  2. Inside-to-Out Swing Path: This means your club is moving from inside the target line to outside during the downswing, which can exaggerate the push.

But wait—there’s more! Other factors can contribute to a push, such as poor grip, alignment issues, or even your stance. Let’s explore these in detail.

1. Check Your Grip: Are You Holding On Too Tight?

Your grip is the only connection between you and the club, so it’s crucial to get it right. A weak grip (where your hands are rotated too far to the left on the club) can cause the clubface to open at impact, leading to a push.

How to Fix It:

  • Strengthen your grip slightly by rotating both hands to the right on the club.
  • Ensure your “V’s” (the lines between your thumb and index finger) point toward your right shoulder.

2. Alignment: Are You Aiming Where You Think You Are?

Misalignment is a sneaky culprit. If your body is aimed to the right of your target, your swing path will naturally follow, resulting in a push.

How to Fix It:

  • Use alignment sticks or clubs on the ground to ensure your feet, hips, and shoulders are parallel to the target line.
  • Practice with a mirror or have a friend check your alignment.

3. Swing Path: Is Your Club Taking the Scenic Route?

An inside-to-out swing path is a common cause of a push. While this path can be beneficial for drawing the ball, it can also lead to pushes if the clubface isn’t square.

How to Fix It:

  • Focus on swinging along the target line during the downswing.
  • Use drills like the “gate drill,” where you place two tees just wider than your clubhead on either side of the ball to encourage a straighter path.

4. Stance and Posture: Are You Standing Tall Enough?

Your stance and posture play a significant role in your swing mechanics. If you’re too hunched over or too upright, it can affect your swing path and clubface angle.

How to Fix It:

  • Stand tall with a slight knee bend and a straight back.
  • Ensure your weight is evenly distributed between your feet.

5. Ball Position: Is the Ball in the Right Spot?

If the ball is too far back in your stance, it can cause the clubface to open at impact, leading to a push.

How to Fix It:

  • For irons, position the ball just inside your left heel (for right-handed golfers).
  • For drivers, place the ball opposite your left heel.

6. Mental Game: Is Your Ball Plotting Against You?

Okay, maybe your ball isn’t actually plotting against you, but golf is as much a mental game as it is physical. Overthinking or tensing up can lead to poor mechanics.

How to Fix It:

  • Visualize a successful shot before stepping up to the ball.
  • Focus on one key swing thought, like “smooth tempo” or “square clubface.”

Drills to Fix a Push

Here are a few drills to help you eliminate the push from your game:

  1. The Towel Drill: Place a towel under your right armpit (for right-handed golfers) and swing without letting it fall. This promotes a connected swing and prevents an inside-to-out path.
  2. The Headcover Drill: Place a headcover just outside the ball. If you hit it, you’re swinging too far inside-to-out.
  3. The Alignment Stick Drill: Lay an alignment stick on the ground pointing at your target. Practice swinging along the stick to ensure a straight path.

FAQs

Q: Why does my push only happen with my driver?
A: This could be due to the longer shaft and lower loft of the driver, which exaggerates swing path and clubface issues. Focus on maintaining a square clubface and neutral swing path.

Q: Can equipment cause a push?
A: Yes! Clubs that are too flat or have a lie angle that doesn’t suit your swing can contribute to a push. Get fitted by a professional to ensure your equipment matches your swing.

Q: How long will it take to fix a push?
A: It depends on the root cause and how much you practice. With consistent effort, you should see improvement within a few weeks.

Fixing a push in golf requires a combination of technical adjustments and mental focus. By addressing your grip, alignment, swing path, and stance, you can straighten out your shots and keep your ball from plotting against you. Now, go out there and show that ball who’s boss!