Mastering the Push Draw: How to Hit and Control Your Curves
/We’ve all faced it: either learning to hit a push draw or struggling to control the amount of curve. In this video, my good friend and Senior PGA Tour coach, Michael Manavian, dives into these details.
First, let’s clearly define the task of hitting a push draw. Our model for predicting the curve is straightforward: we want the golf ball to curve back toward the flag without crossing the line.
To begin, it's essential to understand why the ball curves to the left:
1. The clubface is closed relative to the swing path.
2. The amount of curve results from the difference between the face angle and the path angle.
We’ll also set aside the complexities of gearing and focus on the player consistently striking the center of the clubface.
Here are three key truths about the relationship between the clubface and path:
- The face is open to the target line.
- The face is closed to the swing arc.
- The face is closed relative to the shaft.
For the ball to start to the right and avoid crossing the target line, the clubface should be 50% open to the target and 50% closed to the path. A smaller curve requires a smaller difference between the face and path angles, while a larger curve demands a greater difference. Understanding these key relationships is crucial.
In this video, we’ll cover how to create a more controlled push draw, focusing on these points:
- Striking every ball solidly.
- Ensuring every shot curves left for a right-handed golfer.
- Maintaining the same direction of curve without crossing the target line.
- Establishing a right-edge boundary.
- Controlling the shot heights.
The most critical factor is keeping the clubface closed to the shaft. A great way to develop this skill is through what I call "training ugly." This approach involves experimenting with the start direction and amount of curve while having fun with the process. Be patient, define what you want to achieve, and play around with the relationship between the face and the shaft. Remember, the more closed the face is, the more the ball will curve. While it may not be easy, mastering this is essential for improving your golf game.
