Banish the Push: Mastering Wedge Shots for Laser-Like Accuracy

Is your wedge game letting you down? Are perfectly struck shots sailing frustratingly right of your target? You’re not alone. The dreaded push is a common affliction among golfers, especially with wedges, where precision is paramount. But fear not! This post will delve into the common causes of pushed wedge shots and provide actionable tips to help you groove a more consistent, accurate short game.

Understanding the Push

A pushed shot starts right of the target and stays right, unlike a slice which curves right. With wedges, this often results in missing greens short and right, leading to tricky up-and-downs. Before we fix it, let’s understand why it happens.

Common Culprits Behind the Pushed Wedge Shot

1. Open Clubface at Impact

The most frequent cause is an open clubface at impact. Even a slightly open face with a wedge, due to its higher loft, can send the ball significantly right.

2. Over-the-Top Swing Path

Coming over the top, an out-to-in swing path, exacerbates the push. This combines with the open face to create a double whammy, sending the ball even further offline.

3. Grip and Setup Issues

A weak grip (where your hands are rotated too far to the left for a right-handed golfer) can encourage an open clubface. Similarly, aiming too far right or having your weight too far on your back foot during setup can contribute to an over-the-top swing.

Actionable Tips to Stop Pushing Your Wedges

1. Check Your Grip

Ensure your grip pressure is light and that you can see two to three knuckles on your left hand (for right-handed golfers) at address. This promotes a neutral grip, allowing the clubface to naturally square up at impact.

2. Focus on Swing Path

Practice swinging along your target line. Imagine a line on the ground pointing towards your target and try to swing along it. Use alignment sticks or even a club on the ground to help visualize this.

3. Improve Your Setup

Align your body parallel to the target line, not to the right of it. Distribute your weight evenly between your feet. Feel a slight forward press at address, as if you’re leaning towards the target.

4. Shorten Your Backswing

A shorter, more controlled backswing can help prevent an over-the-top motion. Focus on rotating your shoulders and torso rather than lifting the club with your arms.

5. Practice with a Towel

Place a small towel just outside the golf ball, on the target line. Practice hitting shots without hitting the towel. This drill encourages an in-to-out swing path and helps groove a square clubface at impact.

Conclusion

Pushing wedge shots can be frustrating, but by understanding the causes and implementing these actionable tips, you can transform your short game. Focus on a neutral grip, an in-to-out swing path, and a solid setup. With consistent practice, you’ll be hitting those crisp, accurate wedge shots that stick close to the pin and lower your scores.