Ball Flight Law #4 - Club Path

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So far, we’ve covered three of the five ball flight laws: club speed, centeredness of contact, and face angle. This week, we’re diving into the fourth law: club path. Club path works hand in hand with face angle to determine where your ball goes, making it a critical concept for improving your accuracy and control. After today, we’ll have just one more law to discuss—angle of attack—so stay tuned for the final piece of the puzzle. Enjoy the article!

In addition, I had a great conversation with Jake Van Fleet about PGA Reach, a fantastic program from the PGA designed to grow the game of golf. PGA Reach supports juniors, veterans, and promotes inclusivity across the sport. Be sure to check out our discussion and learn more about this inspiring initiative!

INSTRUCTION

Understanding Club Path: A Key to Consistent Golf

Have you ever felt like your golf ball has a mind of its own, veering off course despite your best intentions? If so, you might need to delve into the world of club path.

What is Club Path?

Simply put, club path refers to the direction your clubhead travels relative to your target line at the moment of impact. Imagine a straight line pointing towards your target – your club path should ideally intersect this line at impact.

Club Path and Impact:

The relationship between club path and impact location is crucial:

• Out-to-In Path:
  
  

  • The clubhead moves from outside the target line to inside it during the swing.

  • Often leads to impacts towards the toe of the clubface.

  • Can result in a slice or fade due to increased side spin.

• In-to-Out Path:
  
  

  • The clubhead moves from inside the target line to outside it.

  • Often leads to impacts towards the heel of the clubface.

  • Can result in a draw or hook.

Why Club Path Matters:

• Initial Ball Direction: While the clubface angle plays a major role, club path significantly influences where the ball starts.

• Ball Curvature: The combination of club path and face angle determines the amount of spin imparted on the ball, directly impacting its curve.

Diagnosing and Improving Club Path:

• Identify Your Path: Utilize tools like impact tape or launch monitors to analyze your swing path and impact location.

• Practice Drills:

  • Swing Plane Drills: Employ alignment sticks or a plane board to guide your swing along the correct path.

  • Impact Awareness: Focus on consistent contact by observing where you hit the clubface with impact tape.

Key Takeaways:

Understanding and controlling the club path is fundamental to consistent golf. By aligning your swing path with the target and optimizing your impact location, you can achieve greater accuracy and control over your shots.

Next Steps:

At the driving range, pay close attention to your swing path and where you're striking the ball. By consistently analyzing and refining these aspects, you'll be well on your way to more predictable and rewarding golf.

PODCAST

PGA Reach with Jake Van Fleet

This week on The Approach, we’re thrilled to bring back Jake Van Fleet, PGA, for another insightful and inspiring conversation. Jake’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and giving back. From his unconventional path to PGA membership to his leadership at North Hills Country Club, Jake has a wealth of experience to share.

In this episode, we dive into his involvement with PGA REACH, including running the New York City Marathon to support programs like PGA HOPE, Junior League, and PGA WORKS. Jake’s passion for these initiatives and his belief in the power of golf to change lives are truly inspiring. Whether you’re a golf professional, a player, or someone who simply loves the game, there’s something in this episode for you.

Listen Now:
🎧 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts. Prefer to watch? Catch the full episode on YouTube!
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