Boost Your Golf Swing Speed with the Close the Window Drill

Understanding the Importance of Lag and Shaft Lean

In the world of golf, mastering the downswing is crucial for achieving speed and compression in your shots. Today, we're going to delve into a simple yet effective exercise known as the "Close the Window" drill. This drill specifically targets three common issues many golfers face during their downswing: losing lag, insufficient forward shaft lean, and an unstable club face. By addressing these areas, you'll be able to improve your overall ball flight and consistency.

The Role of the Trail Arm

To effectively utilize the Close the Window drill, understanding the role of your trail arm is essential. Many golfers mistakenly lead their downswing with their trail arm, which can create a gap or "window" between the arm and the body. This gap indicates that the trail arm is being overused, which compromises the swing's integrity. Instead, we want to focus on the trail arm's function as a governor of width and a carrier of lag during the downswing.

Identifying the Problem

When the trail arm is initiated too early in the downswing, it not only causes a loss of lag but also results in the club moving outside the hands. This movement leads to a club position that is past the hands at impact, making it impossible to create the necessary compression on the ball. Consequently, you'll likely experience erratic ball flight, often resulting in a fear of hitting the ball left, as many golfers like Brent often do.

Introducing the Close the Window Drill

The Close the Window drill is designed to help you maintain the correct sequence in your downswing. Here’s how to perform it:

1. Set Up: Begin by loading up to the top of your swing.
2. Focus on the Trail Arm: Your first step in this drill is to concentrate on your trail arm. Shift your weight to your lead side while allowing your right elbow to drop in front of your body, ideally around the level of your belt loop.
3. Maintain Relaxation: It’s crucial to keep your trail arm relaxed as you make this movement. Avoid forcing the arm into position; instead, let it fall naturally.
4. Close the Window: As you shift your hips and bring your right elbow down, visualize closing that window between your arm and body. This will help you maintain the proper shaft lean and prevent the premature extension that leads to a loss of lag.

Executing the Drill

To practice effectively, start with slow, methodical movements. You can begin with just your trail arm to get a feel for the motion. Once you're comfortable, incorporate both hands on the club while maintaining the same focus on your trail arm. Remember, the goal is to feel the arms working down in front of your body while using your legs and hips to initiate the downswing. This sequence is fundamental in achieving the correct delivery position for the club.

Feeling the Change

As you practice this drill, it may initially feel cramped or restrictive. This sensation is normal, as you are adjusting to a new way of delivering the club. Trust that allowing the club to release naturally will create the necessary space for a proper swing plane. The more you practice closing the window, the more comfortable and effective your downswing will become.

Conclusion

Incorporating the Close the Window drill into your practice routine can significantly enhance your swing speed and compression. Remember, the key is to keep the movements relaxed while focusing on the correct sequence. With practice, you'll be able to make solid contact and achieve a more stable club face, leading to improved ball flight and accuracy.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on your trail arm to maintain proper lag and shaft lean.
• Close the window between your arm and body during the downswing.
• Practice with slow, methodical movements before increasing speed.
• Trust the sensation of a restricted space to improve your swing delivery.
• Regular practice of this drill can lead to significant improvements in your ball striking and overall game.

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