Use THIS Simple Alignment Routine for More Accurate Golf Shots

Struggling with hitting your golf ball straight and on target? One often overlooked but critical factor in improving your golf game is mastering your alignment. Whether you’re on the course or at the range, aligning yourself correctly is one of the easiest ways to start hitting more accurate shots. In this post, we’ll walk you through a simple, effective alignment routine that can help you line up better with your target, improve your shot accuracy, and make your golf game more consistent.

Why Alignment Matters

When it comes to golf, your alignment determines where your clubface is pointing at impact and how your body is positioned to the target. Proper alignment ensures that the clubface is aimed where you want the ball to go, giving you the best chance to hit it straight and true.

However, many golfers struggle with alignment, especially recreational players who often overlook the importance of it. If your alignment is off, even the best swing mechanics will not help you hit your target consistently. So, how can you get this part of your game right?

The Importance of an Intermediate Target

One of the best ways to improve your alignment is by using an intermediate target. This is a small object, a few feet in front of your golf ball, that you use as a reference to line up your shot. The goal is to first align your clubface and body to this intermediate target, and then focus your attention on it during your swing.

Setting Up Your Alignment Routine

Let’s break down a simple alignment routine that you can use on the range or on the course. This process helps you connect your target with the ball and the area in between, ensuring that everything is lined up properly.

1. Find an Intermediate Target
   
   The first step is to pick something small just in front of the ball. This could be a small blade of grass, a discoloration on the ground, or even a divot. The key is to choose something specific and easily visible, so you can focus on it during your setup.
   
   

2. Feet Together and Clubface Alignment
   
   Once you’ve chosen your intermediate target, start by placing your feet together and aligning your clubface directly at the target. This step is essential for ensuring the clubface is aimed correctly, which is critical for hitting your target.
   
   

3. Add Balance and Engage Your Target
   
   After aligning the clubface, step into your full setup. As you do this, make sure your feet are aligned parallel to your target line, and focus on maintaining good balance. Engage with the target by visually scanning from the intermediate target back to the ball, ensuring that you’re aligned correctly.
   
   

4. Execute the Shot
   
   Once you’re set up, trust your alignment and take the shot with confidence. Remember to stay focused on your target. As Sam, a coach who works with tour players, explains, this helps you stay engaged with the shot rather than getting bogged down in swing mechanics. By focusing on hitting the ball over your intermediate target, you’re more likely to react athletically and strike the ball more effectively.
   
   
   

Drills to Improve Your Alignment

Here are two simple drills to help reinforce the alignment process:

1. The Intermediate Target Drill

• Setup: Place a golf ball or tee a short distance (about a foot or two) in front of your ball. Choose something very small, like a discoloration in the grass, as your intermediate target. 
  
  
  
• Execution: Align your clubface with the intermediate target, making sure your body is parallel to it. Then, execute your shot, focusing on hitting it over the intermediate target.
  
  
• Tip: By focusing on a small target, you’ll reduce the chances of overthinking your mechanics, which can lead to poor swings.
  
  

2. The Feet Together Alignment Drill

• Setup: Stand with your feet together and place the club in front of you with the clubface aimed at your intermediate target.
  
  
• Execution: After checking your alignment, separate your feet into your normal stance while keeping the clubface aimed at your target. Execute your shot with a focus on maintaining proper alignment throughout the swing.
  
  
  
  
• Tip: This drill encourages better body awareness and helps you reinforce proper alignment before each shot.

Conclusion

Proper alignment is the foundation of every great golf shot. By focusing on an intermediate target and following a solid alignment routine, you can ensure that your clubface and body are in the right position to hit the ball on target. Practice the drills mentioned above to build muscle memory, and soon you’ll be executing more accurate shots on the course. Remember, the more intentional and specific you are with your alignment, the better your chances of hitting that perfect shot.

So, next time you're on the range or preparing for a round, take the time to go through this alignment process. It might just be the key to improving your ball striking and bringing your game to the next level!