Best Push Shot in Golf

Every golfer knows the frustration of a push shot in golf—the ball starts right of the target and stays there. It’s not a slice, it’s a straight push. Whether you’re pushing a golf shot off the tee or with irons, this common miss can wreck your score. But with the right approach, you can eliminate pushed golf shots for good.

What Is a Push Shot in Golf?

A push occurs when the clubface is square to the swing path, but the path itself is too far to the left (for a right-handed golfer). The result: the ball flies straight but right of the target. Unlike a slice, there’s no curve—just a straight miss. Pushing golf shots often stems from setup, alignment, or swing mechanics.

Common Causes of a Push Shot

1. Alignment Issues Many golfers aim left of the target to compensate for a slice, which actually encourages a push. Check your feet, hips, and shoulders—they should be parallel to the target line.

2. Overactive Lower Body If your hips slide toward the target too early, the club gets stuck behind, causing a push slice or a straight push. Keep your lower body stable through impact.

3. Grip and Clubface A weak grip (hands turned too far left) can make it hard to square the face, leading to a push slice in golf. Strengthen your grip slightly to help close the face.

How to Fix a Push Shot: Drills and Tips

• —Alignment Drill: Place two clubs on the ground—one along your target line, one for your feet. Practice swinging without crossing the foot line.
• —Towel Drill: Tuck a towel under your left armpit (right-handed) to keep the upper body connected and prevent early hip slide.
• —Face Control: Focus on rotating your forearms through impact to bring the clubface square.

What to Consider Before Buying Equipment for Push Shots

When shopping for gear to help fix a push shot in golf, look for items that promote better alignment, swing path, or face control:

• —Alignment sticks: Simple rods that help you check your setup. Look for bright colors with clear markings.
• —Training aids: Devices like the Impact Snap or PlaneMate train proper wrist hinge and release.
• —Clubs: Some drivers and irons are designed with offset or draw bias to counteract a push. However, no club substitutes for good mechanics.

Check the fit of any club—lie angle, shaft length, and grip size can affect your path. If you tend to push, a slightly upright lie angle may help. Always try before you buy or consult a fitter.

Drills to Practice at the Range

1. Gate Drill: Place two tees just wider than your clubhead at the target line. Hit shots without knocking them over—this forces an inside-out path.
2. Toe-Up Drill: At the top of your backswing, make sure the toe of the club is pointing skyward. This promotes a correct wrist position.

Frequently Asked Questions About Push Shots in Golf

Why do I push the ball to the right even with a square clubface? A push happens when your swing path is left of the target (for a right-hander) even though the face is square. Check your alignment and hip rotation—often the path is too far in-to-out or your body is aimed left.

Can a push slice be fixed by changing my grip? Yes, a push slice in golf combines a leftward path with an open face. Strengthening your grip (turning both hands to the right) can help square the face at impact. But also work on path drills.

What equipment helps stop pushing golf shots? Look for training aids that give instant feedback on path and face, like laser alignment devices or smart sensors. Also consider clubs with draw bias if you consistently push. Always pair gear with proper practice.

Final Thoughts on the Push Shot

Stopping pushed golf shots requires honest self-assessment of your setup and swing. Use the drills above, and if you buy equipment, focus on tools that reinforce correct alignment and release. With consistent practice, you’ll turn that push into a straight shot or even a gentle draw.