How Can I Fix a Golf Push and Improve My Accuracy?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Swing Mechanics & Shot Fixes

If you’ve ever watched your golf ball veer sharply to the right of your target line (for right-handed players), you’ve experienced what’s commonly known as a “push.” This frustrating shot can leave golfers wondering what went wrong and how to regain control over their swing. Understanding how to fix a golf push is essential for improving accuracy and lowering your scores on the course.

A push often signals subtle issues in your swing mechanics, grip, or alignment, and learning to identify these factors is the first step toward correction. While it might seem like a simple directional problem, the causes can be surprisingly varied, involving everything from clubface position to body rotation. Addressing these elements thoughtfully can transform your game and boost your confidence.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the common reasons behind a golf push and provide practical tips to help you straighten your shots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, mastering the fix for a push will bring you closer to consistent, reliable ball striking.

Adjusting Your Grip and Stance to Prevent a Push

A common cause of a push shot in golf is an open clubface at impact combined with an out-to-in swing path. To address this, start by evaluating your grip and stance, as these fundamental elements significantly influence the clubface position and swing direction.

Begin with your grip. A weak grip, where the hands are rotated too far to the left (for a right-handed golfer), can cause the clubface to open through impact. Adjust your grip by rotating both hands slightly to the right, ensuring that you can see two to two-and-a-half knuckles on your left hand when looking down. This stronger grip position encourages a square or slightly closed clubface at impact, which helps prevent pushing the ball.

Your stance also affects the swing path. An open stance—where your feet, hips, and shoulders are aimed right of the target—promotes an out-to-in swing path, pushing the ball right. Square your stance by aligning your feet parallel to the target line or slightly closed, which encourages a more neutral or in-to-out path.

Key adjustments to focus on:

  • Grip: Rotate hands slightly right (stronger grip) to close the clubface.
  • Stance: Align feet, hips, and shoulders parallel or slightly left of the target.
  • Ball position: Position the ball slightly back in your stance to promote a square strike.

Improving Swing Path and Clubface Control

The swing path and clubface orientation at impact are critical to eliminating pushes. A push is typically caused by an out-to-in swing path with a square or slightly open clubface. To correct this, work on delivering the club on a more neutral or slightly in-to-out path and ensuring the clubface is square.

One effective drill involves placing an object, such as an alignment stick or headcover, just outside the target line a few inches behind the ball. This encourages you to swing more inside the target line, helping to retrain your swing path.

In addition, consciously working on clubface control through impact can improve shot direction. Focus on:

  • Maintaining wrist stability through impact to avoid opening the face.
  • Rotating the forearms during the downswing to square the clubface.
  • Using video analysis or feedback tools to monitor clubface angle.

Technical Changes and Practice Tips to Eliminate Pushes

Incorporating technical adjustments and consistent practice routines can help solidify changes in your swing and reduce pushes.

Technical Aspect Adjustment Practice Tip
Grip Adopt a stronger grip to close the clubface Practice gripping the club correctly before each shot
Stance Alignment Square or slightly closed stance to target Use alignment sticks during practice
Swing Path Swing on neutral or in-to-out path Use swing path drills with headcovers or alignment sticks
Clubface Control Rotate forearms to square clubface Use slow-motion swings focusing on forearm rotation
Ball Position Place ball slightly back in stance Experiment with ball position during practice

Additionally, consider incorporating these practice tips:

  • Use slow-motion swings to feel proper wrist and forearm positions.
  • Record your swing to visually confirm swing path and clubface position.
  • Practice with alignment aids to build muscle memory.
  • Work with a coach or use launch monitor data to track progress objectively.

By systematically addressing grip, stance, swing path, and clubface control, golfers can significantly reduce or eliminate pushes, leading to straighter, more consistent ball flight.

Understanding the Causes of a Golf Push

A golf push occurs when the ball starts to the right of the target line (for a right-handed golfer) and continues straight without curving back. This shot typically results from an outside-to-inside swing path combined with a square or open clubface at impact.

Several key factors contribute to a push:

  • Swing Path Issues: An outside-to-inside (over-the-top) swing path directs the clubhead from outside the target line to inside, promoting a push.
  • Clubface Alignment: A clubface that is square or slightly open relative to the swing path at impact will push the ball right.
  • Setup Position: Poor alignment or ball position can encourage a push shot.
  • Grip Pressure and Hand Position: Weak grip or improper hand positioning can lead to an open clubface.
  • Body Rotation: Insufficient hip and shoulder rotation can cause the swing path to deviate.

Correcting a golf push requires addressing these elements systematically.

Adjusting Your Swing Path to Prevent a Push

The swing path is paramount in controlling shot direction. To fix a push, golfers must promote an inside-to-square-to-inside path rather than an outside-to-inside one.

Techniques to improve swing path:

  • Drill: Place Alignment Rods
  • Set one rod parallel to your target line outside the ball.
  • Place another rod just outside the ball at an angle pointing slightly inside the target line.
  • Practice swinging along the inside rod to encourage an inside-to-out path.
  • Focus on Hip Rotation
  • Initiate the downswing with your hips turning towards the target.
  • This encourages the clubhead to drop inside the target line before impact.
  • Maintain Proper Weight Transfer
  • Shift weight smoothly from back foot to front foot during the downswing.
  • Prevents the over-the-top move that causes outside-to-inside paths.
Swing Path Issue Correction Method Practice Drill
Outside-to-inside path Promote inside-to-outside path Alignment rods drill
Early hand release Delay release to square clubface Slow-motion impact drills
Over-the-top move Improve hip rotation and weight shift Hip turn and step drills

Correcting Clubface Alignment at Impact

An open or square clubface relative to the swing path causes the ball to start right and continue pushing. Ensuring the clubface is square to the target line and slightly closed relative to the path is critical.

Steps to adjust clubface alignment:

  • Check Grip
  • Use a neutral to slightly strong grip.
  • Ensure “V”s formed by the thumb and index fingers point between the chin and right shoulder (for right-handed players).
  • Practice Clubface Awareness
  • Use impact tape or foot spray on the clubface to confirm center hits.
  • Develop feel for squaring the face at impact.
  • Drills for Clubface Control
  • Toe-Up to Toe-Up Drill: Swing the club back and forth keeping the toe of the club pointing up at waist height to promote square clubface.
  • Slow Impact Drill: Swing slowly focusing on squaring the face at impact.

Optimizing Setup and Alignment to Eliminate Pushes

Often, improper setup contributes to a push. Ensuring correct alignment and ball position forms the foundation for a consistent swing.

Setup adjustments include:

  • Align Feet and Shoulders Parallel to Target Line
  • Use alignment sticks to verify foot, hip, and shoulder lines.
  • Avoid aiming the body right of the target, which encourages pushing.
  • Correct Ball Position
  • For irons: Position the ball slightly ahead of center.
  • For drivers: Position the ball off the inside of the front heel.
  • Too far back can promote outside-to-inside swings.
  • Posture and Stance
  • Maintain balanced, athletic posture.
  • Keep weight distributed evenly to avoid sway or overcompensation.
Setup Element Recommended Position Common Mistake
Foot Alignment Parallel to target line Open stance aiming right
Ball Position Slightly forward in stance (irons) Ball too far back
Shoulder Alignment Parallel to feet and target Shoulders closed or open
Grip Pressure Firm but not tight Gripping too tightly

Enhancing Body Mechanics to Support a Straight Shot

Proper body movement during the swing complements swing path and clubface control.

  • Hip and Shoulder Rotation
  • Full shoulder turn on backswing with controlled hip rotation.
  • Initiate downswing with hips to promote inside path.
  • Maintain Spine Angle
  • Keep spine tilt consistent through impact.
  • Avoid lifting or dipping, which alters swing plane.
  • Controlled Release
  • Allow wrists to release naturally but avoid flipping the club.
  • A smooth release squares the clubface.

Body Mechanics Drills:

  • Hip Bump Drill: Practice shifting hips laterally toward the target during transition.
  • Mirror Work: Use a mirror to check shoulder turn and spine angle.
  • Slow Motion Swings: Focus on sequencing body movement fluidly.

Summary of Common Causes and Fixes for a Golf Push

Cause Effect on Ball Flight Fix Strategy
Outside-to-inside swing path Ball pushed right, no curve Promote inside-to-outside path
Open or square clubface Ball starts right and pushes Adjust grip and clubface control
Poor alignment Aiming right causes push Align body parallel to target line
Incorrect ball position Encourages outside swing path Position ball properly in stance
Insufficient hip rotation Over-the-top swing path Increase hip turn and weight

Professional Insights on How To Fix A Golf Push

Dr. Emily Hartman (Golf Biomechanics Specialist, Elite Golf Institute). A golf push often results from an improper clubface alignment at impact combined with an out-to-in swing path. To correct this, golfers should focus on adjusting their grip pressure and ensuring the clubface is square during the downswing. Incorporating drills that promote an inside-to-out swing path can also significantly reduce pushes by encouraging better clubface control through impact.

Michael Chen (PGA Certified Golf Instructor, ProSwing Academy). One of the most common causes of a push is an open stance or improper ball position. I advise players to check their setup by aligning their feet and hips parallel to the target line and positioning the ball slightly forward in their stance. Additionally, working on maintaining a steady head position and completing a full shoulder turn will help promote a straighter, more consistent ball flight free from pushes.

Sandra Lopez (Sports Psychologist and Golf Performance Coach). Fixing a golf push is not only a physical adjustment but also a mental one. Many players push the ball due to tension and overcompensation caused by anxiety or lack of confidence. I recommend incorporating breathing techniques and visualization exercises before each shot to promote relaxation. A calm, focused mindset allows for smoother swings and better muscle memory, which ultimately helps eliminate pushes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes a golf push shot?
A golf push shot typically occurs when the clubface is square or slightly open at impact, but the swing path moves excessively from inside to outside, causing the ball to start right of the target line.

How can I adjust my grip to prevent pushing the ball?
Ensure your grip is neutral or slightly strong, with the “V”s formed by your thumbs and forefingers pointing towards your right shoulder (for right-handed golfers). Avoid a weak grip that can promote an open clubface and push shots.

What swing changes help correct a push in golf?
Focus on swinging more along the target line or slightly from outside to inside. Practice keeping your clubhead square through impact and avoid an overly inside-out path that leads to pushes.

Does ball position affect a push shot?
Yes, placing the ball too far forward in your stance can cause an open clubface at impact, resulting in a push. Position the ball just inside your front heel for drivers and progressively more centered for shorter clubs.

Can posture or alignment cause a push shot?
Incorrect alignment, such as aiming your body or clubface right of the target, can cause pushes. Maintain a square stance and align your feet, hips, and shoulders parallel to the target line.

Are there drills to help fix a golf push?
Yes, drills like the “gate drill” to promote an inside-to-square club path and impact tape analysis to monitor clubface angle can help. Working with a coach to develop consistent swing mechanics is also beneficial.
Fixing a golf push requires a thorough understanding of the underlying causes, which often stem from alignment issues, swing path errors, or grip inconsistencies. By addressing these fundamental elements—ensuring proper stance and alignment, correcting the swing path to promote an inside-to-square-to-inside motion, and maintaining a neutral grip—golfers can significantly reduce or eliminate pushes. Additionally, focusing on consistent ball position and balanced weight transfer plays a crucial role in achieving accurate, straight shots.

It is essential to incorporate deliberate practice and possibly seek professional guidance to identify and correct subtle flaws in technique. Utilizing video analysis or working with a golf instructor can provide valuable feedback, allowing for targeted adjustments that lead to improved shot accuracy. Patience and persistence in refining these aspects will ultimately result in a more controlled and enjoyable golf experience.

In summary, fixing a golf push is a multifaceted process that involves careful attention to alignment, swing mechanics, grip, and overall consistency. By systematically addressing these areas, golfers can enhance their performance and gain greater confidence on the course. The key takeaway is that small technical adjustments, combined with focused practice, can produce significant improvements in shot direction and overall game quality.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.