Mike Malaska breaks it down step by step, showing how the foundational positions of the drill translate seamlessly into a complete, powerful motion. Let’s explore how the L to L Drill can elevate your game.
Key Insight: The Foundation of the L to L Drill
The L to L Drill is a simple yet effective way to refine your swing mechanics. Mike Malaska explains it this way:
• Backswing (First L): In the initial position, the club forms an L-shape relative to your lead arm. At this point, your weight shifts to your right foot, and your body is fully turned.
• Impact to Follow-Through (Second L): As you move through the swing, the clubhead releases through impact and re-hinges to form another L on the follow-through, with your weight shifted to your left side.
The focus of the L to L Drill is to feel the club’s rhythm and learn to hinge and re-hinge effectively, ensuring a consistent swing path.
Step 1: Practicing the L to L Drill
To master the drill, follow these steps:
1. Start with Half Swings: Begin by focusing only on the L shapes at the backswing and follow-through. Ensure your weight shifts correctly – into your right foot on the backswing and into your left foot on the follow-through.
2. Feel the Release: Pay attention to how the clubhead releases through the ball and re hinges naturally after impact.
3. Reinforce the L Position: After each swing, bring the club back to the follow-through L position to ingrain the motion.
Step 2: Incorporating L to L into a Full Swing
Once comfortable with the drill, you can transition to a full swing. Here’s how:
• Extend the Turn: In the backswing, make a slightly larger turn while maintaining the L shape.
• Follow Through Fully: After impact, extend your follow-through while keeping the club’s re-hinge consistent with the drill.
• Maintain Rhythm: Even at full speed, the positions you achieve in the L to L Drill remain consistent. The key difference is the added turn and speed.
Mike emphasizes, “No matter the speed of your swing, the positions should remain the same. The L to L foundation keeps everything in sync.”
Step 3: Avoiding Common Mistakes
While the L to L Drill is straightforward, some common pitfalls include:
• Skipping the Re-Hinge: Many players fail to allow the club to naturally re-hinge after impact, leading to inconsistencies.
• Overemphasizing Speed: Focus on smooth, rhythmic movements instead of trying to swing too fast.
• Imitating Tour Players: Mike warns against mimicking players whose flexibility allows them to delay the re-hinge. For most golfers, trying this will result in improper mechanics.
Pro Tip: Hit shots while deliberately recoiling the club back into the follow-through L position. This reinforces muscle memory and helps you feel the proper rhythm.
The Results
Mastering the L to L Drill creates a foundation for a consistent and powerful swing. By incorporating the positions into your full swing, you ensure proper mechanics while maintaining the club’s natural rhythm and flow. The result? Better ball striking, improved accuracy, and a more confident swing.
Key Takeaways
1. The L to L Drill Builds Consistency: Use it to refine your swing’s rhythm and mechanics.
2. Re-Hinge Naturally: Allow the club to hinge and re-hinge through the swing.
3. Smooth Transitions: Transition the drill into your full swing by adding turn and speed while keeping positions consistent.
4. Avoid Overcomplicating: Focus on smooth, deliberate movements rather than speed or forced mechanics.
Ready to Elevate Your Game?
At Malaska Golf, we simplify the swing while focusing on what works for you. The L to L Drill is a building block that can transform your swing into a consistent and powerful motion.
Join the Malaska Golf today to:
• Master: Learn essential swing mechanics and drills.
• Maximize: Apply these techniques to enhance your performance rapidly.
• Maintain: Stay sharp with ongoing tips and expert advice from Mike Malaska.
Start incorporating the L to L Drill into your practice and experience the difference it makes in your swing. Simplify your swing and elevate your performance – the Malaska way.
