Lead Arm Only Swings — Golf Drill

Lead arm only swings are a foundational isolation drill designed to develop the strength, path, and stability of your lead side during the golf swing. Primarily used by mid-to-high handicappers who struggle with an overactive trail hand or "casting," this drill is equally vital for competitive players looking to refine their face control and impact sequence. By removing the dominant trail arm, you solve the problem of the "pushy" right side (for righties) that often leads to a slice or a weak, s

Why can't I even make contact when swinging with just my lead arm?

This usually happens because you are trying to 'lift' the club with your hand rather than rotating your body. Focus on a wider stance and using your chest to turn the arm back and through. Start with the ball on a tee to build confidence.

How long will it take to see improvements in my full swing?

Most golfers feel a difference in 'face awareness' within 10-15 minutes. For permanent changes to your [swing path](/video/askgolfguru-which-arm-controls-the-golf-swing-Weu5xZ5AQPM), practice this for 5 minutes at the start of every range session for two weeks.

Should my lead wrist be flat or bowed during this drill?

Aim for a flat or slightly bowed lead wrist at impact. Lead-arm-only drills are excellent for curing a 'flicky' wrist because you quickly realize how much more stable the club is when the wrist stays firm.

How each of them teaches it

Coaches who demonstrate the lead arm only swings drill, each linked at the second they start.

1. Good Golf Coaching: Use Your Left Arm Like This… Add 20 Yards Instantly (from 9:55). Practicing the full swing motion using only the lead arm to feel the push/pull interaction with the legs and forearm rotation.
2. Swing Quest Golf: The #1 Iron Swing Mistake Amateurs Make (And How to Fix It) (from 10:07). Isolating the lead arm to feel how the wrist angle is maintained and then released through the impact zone for a firm lead side.
3. Porzak Golf: The One Swing Flaw NOBODY Talks About (from 7:09). Taking backswings with only the lead arm to experience a natural path and full body turn without the dominant trail arm manipulating the club.

Expert Tips

• AskGolfGuru: Focus on the lead arm as the 'director' of the swing path to eliminate the 'pushing' sensation from the trail arm that causes slices.
• Hit Bombs: Maintain the connection between the lead tricep and the chest wall throughout the backswing and transition to prevent 'lifting' the arms.