Step 1: Setup to the Ball
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and align your body parallel to the target line. Position the ball slightly forward in your stance, just inside your left heel for right-handed golfers. This will help you achieve the proper impact position.
Step 2: Make a Deliberate Backswing
Initiate and finish your practice backswing swing slowly. This unhurried club motion will help you sense the optimal alignment of your body, hands, and club upon impact.
Step 3: Bring the Club Down Slowly
As you transition from the backswing to the downswing, focus on bringing the club down slowly and smoothly. This will allow you to maintain control and generate the right feels necessary at impact.
Step 4: Freeze at Impact
Once the clubhead meets the ball, freeze your position. At this point, about 90% of your weight will be on your front foot, your hips will be slightly open, and your hands will be leading the clubhead with a flat lead wrist. This is the ideal impact position for a solid strike.
Step 5: Avoid Common Mistakes
It's common for amateur golfers to struggle with the last portion of the practice swing. The instinct is to help the ball into the air which often leads to a bent lead wrist and the clubhead passing the hands at impact. To avoid this, focus on maintaining a firm lead wrist and trust that the loft of the club will get the ball in the air.
Step 6: Hits Some Shots
Now practice hitting balls with your full swing, focusing on achieving a proper impact position, and then finishing the swing. Avoid tension in your hands and arms and gradually increase the speed level. Start with easy full swings and then work into a faster tempo. Try teeing the ball up a little bit to build your confidence.