There is a lot of hype out there from more than a few people trying to flog theories that you can play better golf just by reading their book, or thinking better, or buying their gizmo. The truth is nothing can replace the good ol' fashioned drill.
Perhaps the word drill has negative connotations and that is why it is perceived to be a good thing if you can get better without doing one. To me, it depends what the word drill is associated with. When I think drill in exercise, I immediately think sit-up, and shudder. But when I think drill in golf, I think sunshine, driving range, hitting balls, beverage (gotta have one) and muscle memory.
All a drill in golf does is give purpose to your practice, rather than practicing aimlessly. Practice, in golf, is not hard work. When I played hockey, practice meant a lot of skating. Hard. Fast. It was hard work. But I can practice golf with enjoyment. Especially knowing that I am actually programming proper muscle memory that is going to help my golf game if I just stick with it. So if anyone ever tells you you can get better in golf without practice, or doing drills, be sure to tell them you can also lose weight without diet and exercise.
As we prepare our DVD series for 2008, we would like your feedback as to whether you would like to see a separate Hit Down Dammit! DVD devoted just to drills. Our thought is to have a drill pocket book, and a drill DVD, which would be available as part of the series or on their own. Let us know your thoughts by emailing: info@hitdowndammit.com.
Now, this week's drill:
As weather for most of us is getting a little cooler (if not downright cold) I thought this week I would give you a drill that you can do inside. This drill is simply called the Throwing The Ball Drill, and the point of it is to replicate the right side action in hitting down at the golf ball. It is Chapter 5.61 of Hit Down Dammit!
To see a video clip of this drill click here.
Notice too the extension of your right arm and wrist. Notice the thrusting action to a point that is slightly right of the target line. Once you have become comfortable with the drill and are more or less hitting your target consistently, try throwing the ball a little harder. It won't be difficult to do. To really highlight the point, you may even want to swing your right hand (holding the golf ball) up to your right shoulder, then swing down but try to throw the ball "up" into the air. Watch you don't hit yourself in the head. You will note your success will be less, while your embarrassment will be great.
Youwill not require a golf club for this drill. Rather, you will need a golf ball in your right hand, and a mark placed on the ground slightly forward of your typical ball position, and outside the target line. Now set up as if to hit a golf ball. Make a backswing wherein your right hand and arm will rotate back to your right shoulder. Now throw the ball at the mark you have placed on the ground. This action will essentially replicate the role of your right side in a golf shot, and give you the distinct sensation associated with hitting down. Notice that in trying to hit the mark there is no "upward" effort in any way. 
