One Handed Release — Golf Drill

One Handed Release Golf Drills are specialized training exercises designed to isolate the arms and hands to master the [Release](/learn/release) and improve overall ball-striking consistency. These drills are essential for golfers ranging from high handicappers struggling with a "chicken wing" to single-digit players looking to refine their compression and turf interaction. By removing the stabilizing influence of one hand, you eliminate the ability to "steer" or "push" the club, solving the com

Why do I keep topping the ball when practicing one-handed drills?

This usually happens because you are 'pushing' or 'steering' the club with your hand instead of letting it swing. Focus on the [Release](/learn/release) sequence and let the weight of the clubhead pull your arm into full extension.

Should I practice these drills with my lead arm or trail arm?

Both are beneficial, but the trail arm (right arm for righties) is most effective for feeling the 'scooping' underarm throw motion and correcting a 'chicken wing' at impact.

How do I ensure my body stays involved in a one-handed drill?

Use the 'Lumberjack drill' as taught by [Shawn Clement's Wisdom in Golf Lessons](/creator/golflessons). Ensure you don't freeze your lower body; your hips and legs must move to support the weight of the club as it heaves back and through.

How each of them teaches it

Coaches who demonstrate the one handed release drill, each linked at the second they start.

1. Matt Baker Golf | Malaska Certified Coach: Stop Rolling The Clubface! The Throw Release Explained (from 1:50). Chip balls one-handed using a trail-hand throwing motion and lead-hand chopping motion to feel natural face stabilization without active forearm rolling.
2. Get Good At Golf!: This RIDICULOUSLY Easy Chipping Technique... Takes JUST 5 Seconds to MASTER!! (from 5:15). Hit chips using only the trail hand while the lead hand holds the trail bicep to the chest to ensure connection and proper release.
3. Padraig Harrington: Swinging In Sequence, with Coordination and Rhythm Part 2 | Padraig Harrington (from 9:58). Swinging the club with only the left or right hand to feel the natural release of the clubhead and maintain rhythm.

Expert Tips

• Alistair Davies Golf: Maintain proper trail elbow connection by using a physical spacer like a 'hyper pad' to prevent the arm from flying away from the body.
• Shawn Clement's Wisdom in Golf Lessons: Focus on the sequential release of the club—handle, then shaft, then heel, then toe—to allow the club's weight to do the work.