The Split Grip Drill in Golf: Improve Swing Path and Club Control
Do you struggle with over-the-top swings? If so, it may be time to try some drills that will improve your swing path and rotation. While there are many drills meant to accomplish this, one of the most effective is known as the split grip hitting drill.
Below, you can dive into what this drill entails, how to perform it, and why even professional players have come to rely on it. From there, you can explore some practical information about Keiser University College of Golf programs to take your golf expertise to the next level.
What Is the Split Grip Drill in Golf?
The split grip drill in golf is designed to train golfers to use a lower trail slide, which improves impact position and resolves over-the-top swing issues. In performing this drill, the hands are separated on the club (usually by a few inches), which changes feedback during the swing to correct many common mistakes.
Why Elite Players Use the Split Grip Drill (Including Rory McIlroy)
The golf split hand drill isn’t just for amateurs. Even some of the most elite professionals of the game have been known to use some version of this drill, like Rory McIlroy.
Rory McIlroy’s Split Handed “Pump” Drill
During his own drill practice, Rory McIlroy uses a split handed pump drill to improve transition, downswing sequencing, and overall club delivery. This article even goes so far as to describe McIlroy’s split handed pump drill as one of his many “secrets to success.”
Why the Split Grip Drill Works So Effectively
What exactly makes the split grip drill so effective, especially compared to other types of swing drills? A few factors set it apart that you’ll see for yourself the first time you try it out.
Reduces Excessive Hand Action
For starters, the act of separating the hands during the swing helps reduce excessive hand movement. This includes enhancing wrist hinge and keeping the left arm steady, critical aspects of any swing.
Improves Swing Path Awareness
Meanwhile, the positioning of the hands on the club during a split grip hitting drill facilitates a more natural swing path from the inside, which can thereby reduce slicing and enhance overall swing path awareness.
Enhances Clubface Control
For those who struggle with clubface control, the split grip drill can help by enhancing awareness of the clubhead’s positioning. More specifically, keeping the hands separated promotes trail hand control and may help elevate accuracy on contact with the ball.
Improves Downswing Sequencing
The separation of the hands during the split grip hitting drill can also improve downswing sequencing by forcing the trail elbow in front of the body, rather than giving it the opportunity to get stuck behind at the top of the swing. This allows the arms to drop into the slot before the body rotates and thus prevents over-the-top swings.
How to Perform the Split Grip Drill Correctly
Performing the split grip drill is fairly straightforward. If you’re ready to give it a try for yourself, here are some steps to follow:
Step 1: Choose the Right Club
Begin with the right club. When you’re first practicing, you’ll want to avoid drivers. A wedge or a short iron tends to be best for those getting started with this drill.
Step 2: Set Up the Grip
Start by gripping the club normally with the lead hand. Then, slide the trail hand down the shaft about 4 to 8 inches while maintaining light, athletic grip pressure.
Step 3: Start With Half Swings
Once you’re in position, start by practicing with half swings at first. Keeping your swings waist-high, focus on balance and rotation while maintaining a consistent tempo.
Step 4: Progress Gradually
From there, gradually increase your swing length as your contact improves. Eventually, you may want to try returning to a normal grip while maintaining the same feel and pursuing the same results.
Why the Split Grip Drill Is Especially Effective in the Downswing
For those looking to improve their downswing, the split grip drill can be particularly useful because the simple act of separating the hands on the shaft forces a shallower, inside-out path that prevents the club from getting “stuck” at the top of the swing. This, in turn, offers greater consistency, efficiency, and simplicity for those working on common downswing faults.
Swing Faults the Split Grip Drill Helps Correct
Speaking of swing faults, several other common issues that the split grip drill can be effective in correcting include:
- Over-the-top swing paths
- Inconsistent contact
- Poor tempo
- Early release
- Excessive hand manipulation
Though it’s important to understand that this drill isn’t a universal, guaranteed fix — it can improve your swing in a number of ways if employed correctly and consistently.
How the Split Grip Drill Is Taught in Professional Golf Instruction Programs
The split grip hitting drill is often taught in professional golf instruction programs (such as the Master of Science in Golf Teaching and Learning) because of its versatility, simplicity, and effectiveness. Instructors can then use the drill within their own structured teaching environments, modifying it as needed or combining it with other drills based on skill level.
When to Use the Split Grip Drill in Practice
While not ideal during competitive play or full-speed training, the split grip golf drill can be highly effective when used consistently during warm-ups, lessons, or as a part of ongoing skill development.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Split Grip Drill
Why do tour players use the split grip drill?
Tour players, including elite golfers, have been known to use the split grip drill to improve transition, downswing sequencing, and overall club delivery.
Is Rory McIlroy’s split hand drill different?
Somewhat. When McIlroy performs the drill, he often forces his trail hand a bit lower on the grip than many other golfers. In some cases, his trail hand will end up on the graphite of the shaft.
Does the split grip drill help with over-the-top swings?
Yes, the split grip drill helps with over-the-top swings by forcing the trail arm to stay in front of the body, which prevents it from getting stuck behind on the downswing.
Is the split grip drill only for practice?
In general, yes, the split grip drill is best used as a practice tool and not in a competitive setting.
How often should golfers practice this drill?
This will vary from one golfer to the next, but many players can benefit from working it into their practice routine at least once or twice per week.
Advance Your Golf Education at Keiser
The split grip hitting drill is just one of many valuable techniques you can learn in Keiser University College of Golf’s MS in Golf Teaching and Learning degree program. With these kinds of drills in your back pocket, you may be better prepared to train and coach players, transforming your love for golf into a fulfilling career.
Get in touch to learn more about any of our programs, or start your application for admission.
Sources
https://collegeofgolf.keiseruniversity.edu/programs/golf-teaching-and-learning-ms/ \
https://collegeofgolf.keiseruniversity.edu/programs/
www.youtube.com/watch?v=toNs1mmVzNg
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7WoE4mBQU8&t=1s
https://golf.com/instruction/approach-shots/rory-mcilroy-swing-drill/
