In golf, a push is a shot that travels straight to the right of the target for right-handed golfers and straight to the left for left-handed golfers. This type of shot can be frustrating for golfers, as it can result in missed fairways, greens, and ultimately, higher scores. There are several factors that can cause a push in golf, including:
Alignment: One of the most common causes of a push is improper alignment. If a golfer’s body is aimed to the right of the target (for right-handed golfers) or left (for left-handed golfers), it can cause the clubface to be aimed in the same direction, resulting in a push.
Grip: Another common cause of a push is an incorrect grip. If a golfer’s grip is too weak (meaning the hands are turned too far to the left for right-handed golfers or too far to the right for left-handed golfers), it can cause the clubface to be open at impact, resulting in a push.
Swing path: The swing path is the direction the club travels during the swing. If a golfer’s swing path is too much to the right (for right-handed golfers) or too much to the left (for left-handed golfers), it can cause the clubface to be open at impact, resulting in a push.
Weight transfer: The weight transfer is the movement of the body during the swing. If a golfer’s weight stays too much on their back foot during the downswing, it can cause the clubface to be open at impact, resulting in a push.
Clubface angle: The clubface angle is the position of the clubface at impact. If the clubface is open at impact, it can cause the ball to go to the right (for right-handed golfers) or left (for left-handed golfers), resulting in a push.
Ball position: Another factor that can cause a push in golf is improper ball position. If the ball is too far forward in a golfer’s stance, it can cause the clubface to be open at impact, resulting in a push. Conversely, if the ball is too far back in the stance, it can cause the clubface to be closed at impact, resulting in a hook.
Swing tempo: Swing tempo refers to the speed and rhythm of a golfer’s swing. If a golfer’s swing tempo is too fast or jerky, it can cause the clubface to be open at impact, resulting in a push. Slowing down the swing and focusing on a smooth, fluid motion can help correct this problem.
Mental game: Finally, the mental game can play a role in causing a push in golf. If a golfer is feeling anxious, tense, or distracted on the course, it can affect their swing and lead to errant shots. Learning to stay focused, relaxed, and confident on the course can help prevent pushes and other types of mishits.
Equipment: Equipment can also play a role in causing a push in golf. If a golfer’s clubs are not properly fitted to their body type and swing, it can result in a push or other types of mis-hits. For example, if the shaft of a golfer’s club is too stiff, it can cause the clubface to be open at impact, resulting in a push. Conversely, if the shaft is too flexible, it can cause the clubface to be closed at impact, resulting in a hook.
Physical limitations: Finally, physical limitations can also contribute to a push in golf. For example, if a golfer lacks flexibility in their shoulders or hips, it can limit their ability to rotate through the swing, causing the clubface to be open at impact and resulting in a push. Similarly, if a golfer lacks strength in their core or upper body, it can affect their swing path and lead to errant shots. Working with a fitness professional to address these physical limitations can help golfers improve their swing and prevent pushes on the course.
To fix a push, it’s important to identify the root cause. A golf instructor can help diagnose the problem and provide drills and exercises to help correct it. Common fixes include adjusting alignment, strengthening the grip, changing the swing path, improving weight transfer, and adjusting the clubface angle at impact. With practice and patience, a golfer can overcome a push and hit more accurate shots.
Ray Barnes, our Senior Staff Writer and a Golf Analyst with a PhD in Sports Analytics, is a beacon of insight in the golfing world. With a deep understanding of the sport's nuances, statistical analysis, and a talent for demystifying complexities, he provides in-depth analysis and captivating narratives that engage golf enthusiasts worldwide.
