Over Under — Golf Drill

Over-under golf drills are specialized training exercises designed to correct swing path issues by forcing the clubhead to travel along a precise geometric plane—specifically staying "over" a target line during the [backswing](/learn/backswing) and dropping "under" it during the [downswing](/learn/downswing). These drills are a lifeline for high handicappers and competitive golfers alike who struggle with a "slice" or the dreaded "over-the-top" move. By creating a physical or visual boundary, th

How long does it take to see results with over-under drills?

Most golfers feel the difference in path immediately due to the physical feedback of the [Headcover drill](/drills/headcover). However, it typically takes 2-3 weeks of consistent practice (3 sessions per week) to make the 'under' move permanent.

Can I practice these drills at home?

Yes! You can perform the '16 drill' or '51 drill' without a ball using a rolled-up towel instead of a headcover to protect your floors while working on your [downswing](/learn/downswing) path.

What if I start hitting the ball too far to the right (a push)?

This is actually a sign of progress! It means you've fixed your path. Now, you need to focus on your [grip](/learn/grip) and release to square the face to that new inside-out path.

How each of them teaches it

Coaches who demonstrate the over under drill, each linked at the second they start.

1. WhyGolf: How to Fix Your Slice In One Swing (from 0:44). Using a foam rod obstacle, the golfer practices an 'over' takeaway (outside/straight) and an 'under' downswing (inside slot) to reverse a slice-causing path.
2. Bob Menzies Golf: Stop SLICING & Coming OVER THE TOP (3 Best Golf Drills EVER)! (from 7:51). Using an alignment rod stuck in the ground at the club's shaft angle, the golfer practices taking the club 'over' the rod on the backswing and 'under' it on the downswing.
3. Bob Menzies Golf: LIVE Golf Lesson (& Jack Nicklaus & Barry Sanders stories)! (from 43:02). Uses an alignment rod and pool noodle to train an 'over' takeaway (staying above the plane) and an 'under' downswing (shallowing from the inside).
4. Bob Menzies Golf: LIVE Golf Lesson (LEFT HANDED Student) Fixing Swing Plane & Path (from 57:48). An alignment rod or pool noodle is placed on the swing plane. The golfer works 'over' it on the backswing and 'under' it on the downswing to fix a steep, over-the-top path.

Expert Tips

• Bob Menzies Golf: Use a headcover or a soft obstacle placed 2-3 inches outside the target line and slightly ahead of the ball to prevent an outside-in path.
• Bob Menzies Golf: Utilize the '16 Drill' to focus on the specific hand-path transition from the top of the backswing to the slot.
• Bob Menzies Golf: For left-handed golfers, focus on the lead shoulder staying closed longer to allow the swing plane to flatten.