henry stetina

Shake Hands With The Target Drill

Published: August 25, 2023

Recently, I've adopted a technique for my golf swing that's been quite transformative: the "shake hands with the target" approach.

This concept hinges on utilizing an external focus during your swing. 

If this term is new to you, having an external focus means you concentrate on elements outside your body, like the club, ball, or target.

This contrasts with an internal focus, which emphasizes the specific movements of your body.

In golf, this external perspective can be especially beneficial, as it steers your attention towards the end result, rather than being consumed by the minutiae of your swing.

Visualize the act of extending your hand to shake hands with your target, as if it were a person standing in front of you.

This mental image promotes the right positioning of your body and clubface, resulting in a swing that's both consistent and accurate.

By concentrating on this external prompt, your swing's direction remains more consistent.

To implement this technique, set up as usual, but with the mental imagery of 'shaking hands' with your target.

Pay close attention to how your body and club move.

For a tangible point of reference, you might find it beneficial to use an alignment rod or another training tool.

Simply place the rod in the ground, like a flagstick, positioned along your target line about 10-15 paces from where you're practicing.

This approach of external focus and visualization has significantly improved the direction and precision of my students' shots.

I'm confident it could be advantageous for your game, too.