In the pursuit of consistency and precision, golfers often turn to innovative drills to refine their technique. The coat hanger drill is a simple, cost-effective method that provides golfers with a visual cue to perfect their swing mechanics. By promoting proper shoulder rotation, maintaining a stable head position, and staying on the correct swing plane, this drill addresses some of the most critical aspects of an effective golf swing.

What Is the Coat Hanger Drill?

The coat hanger drill uses a bent coat hanger as a visual alignment tool during practice. The setup is straightforward and requires no specialized equipment:

1. Modify the Coat Hanger: Bend the hanger to create a small loop or hole at its top.
2. Anchor It in the Ground: Insert the hanger into the ground so it remains stable. Adjust its position so you can see the golf ball through the loop.
3. Align Your Vision: Ensure the ball is perfectly centered in the loop when you address it.

How to Perform the Drill

1. Set Up: Begin in your usual address position with the golf ball visible through the coat hanger’s loop.
2. Backswing: Rotate your shoulders while ensuring the ball remains centered in the loop. This helps maintain a proper swing plane and promotes a perpendicular shoulder turn relative to your spine.
3. Downswing: As you transition through the downswing and into impact, continue to keep the ball visible in the loop. This ensures your head stays stable, and your rotation remains consistent.
4. Practice and Hit: After several practice swings, incorporate the drill into your shot routine, focusing on maintaining alignment throughout the swing.

What Makes This Drill Effective?

1. Enhances Shoulder Rotation: By focusing on keeping the ball within the hanger’s loop, the drill encourages a proper shoulder turn perpendicular to your spine. This alignment maximizes power and efficiency.
2. Promotes Swing Plane Accuracy: Maintaining the visual connection between the ball and the loop ensures you stay on the correct swing plane, reducing errors such as slicing or hooking.
3. Stabilizes the Head Position: The drill reinforces the importance of a steady head position, a hallmark of consistent ball striking. It mirrors the technique of legendary golfer Sam Snead, who famously rotated around the base of his neck.
4. Builds Consistency: Practicing with this visual aid helps develop repeatable mechanics, which translates to more reliable results on the course.

Why It Works

The coat hanger drill simplifies the complex mechanics of the golf swing by providing instant visual feedback. This immediate correction allows golfers to identify and adjust improper movements, creating a more harmonious and efficient swing. Its simplicity makes it accessible to golfers of all skill levels, from beginners seeking structure to seasoned players refining their technique.

Conclusion

The coat hanger drill exemplifies how an uncomplicated tool can yield profound results. By promoting proper shoulder rotation, maintaining a steady head position, and ensuring alignment, this drill offers golfers a practical way to refine their swing mechanics. Whether you’re honing your skills on the range or troubleshooting inconsistencies in your game, this innovative yet simple drill is a valuable addition to your practice routine. Give it a try and see how a coat hanger can elevate your performance.