How to Stop Pushing the Golf Ball: And Why Bananas Might Be the Secret to a Perfect Swing

Golf is a game of precision, patience, and sometimes, frustration. One of the most common issues golfers face is the dreaded “push,” where the ball veers to the right (for right-handed players) without the desired curve. While this problem can stem from technical flaws in your swing, it might also have more unconventional solutions—like eating a banana before your round. Let’s dive into the multifaceted world of fixing a pushed golf shot, blending traditional advice with a sprinkle of the unexpected.

Understanding the Push: What’s Going Wrong?

A push occurs when the clubface is square to the swing path at impact, but the swing path itself is directed to the right of the target. This results in the ball starting right and staying right, missing the target entirely. To fix this, you need to address both your swing mechanics and your mental approach to the game.

1. Check Your Grip: The Foundation of Control

Your grip is the only connection between you and the club. If your grip is too weak (hands rotated too far to the left), it can cause the clubface to remain open at impact, leading to a push. Try strengthening your grip slightly by rotating both hands to the right. This adjustment can help square the clubface at impact.

2. Align Your Body: Aim Small, Miss Small

Misalignment is a common culprit behind pushed shots. Your feet, hips, and shoulders should all be parallel to the target line. If your body is aimed to the right, your swing path will naturally follow, resulting in a push. Use alignment sticks or a club on the ground to ensure your setup is correct.

3. Swing Path: The Road to Redemption

A swing path that’s too far to the right (out-to-in for right-handed players) can cause a push. Focus on swinging along the target line or slightly from the inside. Drills like the “gate drill,” where you place two tees just wider than your clubhead on either side of the ball, can help you visualize and correct your path.

4. Weight Shift: Don’t Get Stuck

Failing to transfer your weight properly during the swing can lead to a push. If your weight stays on your back foot, your body won’t rotate fully, and your arms will take over, often resulting in an open clubface. Practice shifting your weight to your front foot during the downswing to promote a more consistent strike.

5. The Mental Game: Trust Your Swing

Overthinking can be as detrimental as poor mechanics. If you’re constantly worrying about pushing the ball, you might tense up and exacerbate the issue. Focus on a smooth, confident swing and trust your practice. Visualization techniques, like imagining the ball flying straight to the target, can also help.

6. Bananas and Balance: The Unconventional Fix

Now, for the unexpected twist: bananas. Golf is as much about physical stamina as it is about technique. Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps prevent muscle cramps and maintains energy levels. A well-fueled body is more likely to execute a balanced, controlled swing. So, before your next round, consider grabbing a banana—it might just be the secret to stopping that push.

7. Equipment Check: Is Your Gear Working Against You?

Sometimes, the problem lies in your equipment. Clubs that are too long, too stiff, or improperly fitted can make it difficult to square the clubface. Visit a professional club fitter to ensure your gear is optimized for your swing.

8. Practice with Purpose: Quality Over Quantity

Mindless repetition won’t fix a push. Instead, focus on deliberate practice. Use video analysis to identify flaws in your swing and work on specific drills to address them. Consistency is key, but so is intentionality.

9. Seek Professional Help: A Coach’s Eye

If you’re struggling to diagnose and fix the issue on your own, consider working with a golf coach. A trained professional can provide personalized feedback and tailored drills to help you overcome your push.

10. Patience and Persistence: The Long Game

Fixing a push won’t happen overnight. It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to experiment with different techniques. Celebrate small improvements and keep working toward your goal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can a push be caused by my stance?
A: Absolutely. If your stance is too wide or too narrow, it can affect your balance and swing path, leading to a push. Experiment with different stance widths to find what works best for you.

Q: How do I know if my grip is too weak?
A: A weak grip often results in an open clubface at impact. If you consistently push the ball, try strengthening your grip slightly and see if it improves your ball flight.

Q: Is it possible to overcorrect a push?
A: Yes, overcorrecting can lead to a hook, where the ball curves sharply to the left. Focus on making small, incremental changes to avoid swinging too far in the opposite direction.

Q: Why do bananas help with golf performance?
A: Bananas are a great source of potassium, which helps maintain muscle function and energy levels. Staying energized can improve your focus and physical performance on the course.

By combining technical adjustments, mental focus, and a touch of creativity (bananas included), you can conquer the push and start hitting straighter, more accurate shots. Happy golfing!