Lead hand only golf drills involve swinging the club using exclusively your lead arm—the left arm for right-handed golfers—to isolate its role in the swing sequence. This training method is essential for golfers of all skill levels, from high handicappers battling a 'chicken wing' to single-digit players looking to refine their clubface control at impact. By removing the dominant trail hand, these drills solve the common problem of an overactive right side that causes 'flipping,' weak strikes, a
How long should I practice lead-hand-only drills before I see results?
Most golfers feel a difference in impact quality within 15-20 reps. However, for permanent biomechanical changes, incorporate 10 minutes of lead-hand-only work into every practice session for 4 weeks.
What if I can't even hit the ball with just one hand?
That is common! Start with 'dry' swings without a ball. Once you can clip the grass consistently in the same spot, move to a tee. The struggle is actually your brain learning to stabilize the club without the help of your dominant hand.
Which club is best for lead-hand-only drills?
For full swing work, a 7-iron or 8-iron is ideal as they offer a good balance of weight and loft. For short game, use your most comfortable wedge (usually a 52 or 56 degree).
How each of them teaches it
Coaches who demonstrate the lead hand only drill, each linked at the second they start.
Scratch Golf Academy: Focus on tilting the club face downward at impact and ensuring the back of the lead hand feels completely solid through the hitting zone.
AlexElliottGolf: Isolate the lead hand during the putting stroke to eliminate excess trail-hand 'flick' and improve face-angle consistency.
Scottys Golf Grip: Use a lead-hand-only chipping motion to ensure the clubhead doesn't pass the hands before impact.