Right Hand Only — Golf Drill

Right hand only golf drills are specialized training exercises where a golfer removes their lead hand from the club to isolate the mechanics and feel of the trail arm. These drills are essential for everyone from high-handicap slicers to competitive single digits who struggle with a 'flip' at impact or a lack of clubhead awareness. By isolating the right hand (for right-handed players), you solve the common problem of a dominant lead arm pulling the club across the line, leading to inconsistent

Will right-hand only drills make my swing too 'handy'?

Actually, it's the opposite. By isolating the right hand, you learn how it should work in harmony with your body rotation. Most 'handy' swings come from the lead hand pulling or the trail hand over-compensating for a poor path.

How long should I practice one-handed before adding the lead hand back?

Try the 5-5-5 rule: 5 swings right-hand only, 5 swings left-hand only, then 5 swings with both. This helps integrate the isolated 'feel' into your full [AlexElliottGolf](/creator/alexelliottgolf) inspired technique.

Can I do these drills with full shots?

Start with putting and chipping first. Once you can consistently strike chips with your right hand, move to half-swings with an 8-iron. Full swings right-hand only are very difficult and should only be attempted once your short game feel is locked in.

How each of them teaches it

Coaches who demonstrate the right hand only drill, each linked at the second they start.

1. Club Champion: BEYOND THE BAY: Staying Connected Through Your Putting Stroke (from 4:34). Putt using only the dominant hand while the other hand holds the bicep to the ribcage to isolate the stroke and prevent hand interference.
2. Alistair Davies Golf: STOP Rushing Your Downswing And Get Effortless Power In Golf (from 4:50). Swing and hit balls using only the trail hand to create a wider right arm in the downswing and improve release timing.
3. Eric Cogorno Golf: He Went From Amateur to Pro Level Ball Striking In Under 20 Minutes (from 16:46). Swinging using only the right hand to feel right wrist extension and learn to thud the turf without letting the clubhead flip past the hands.

Expert Tips

• AlexElliottGolf: To fix a 'stabby' putting stroke, practice 10-foot putts using only your right hand. Focus on the sensation of the palm facing the target throughout the stroke. This prevents the lead hand from taking over and ensures the putter head releases naturally rather than being manipulated by the small muscles in the wrists.
• AlexElliottGolf: When pitching, use only your right hand to feel the clubhead 'thump' the ground using the bounce of the wedge. Hold the club loosely and let the weight of the head fall. If the leading edge digs, your right hand is likely 'casting' or moving too vertically; focus on a shallow, wide arc.