Shoulder Push (Width & Retraction)
Drill by Athletic Motion Golf
Why this drill works
True width comes from trail shoulder retraction, not just arm movement. Retracting the shoulder (scapula toward the spine) improves rotation, helps straighten the lead arm without locking it, and positions the club in a shallower spot for transition. Avoid shoulder protraction (forward), which restricts rotation.
How to do it
- 1
Identify: If your trail shoulder is packed too close to your hands at the top with excessive arm bend.
- 2
Goal: Move your trail shoulder away from your hands (towards the target or away from your chest) in the backswing (1:40-2:09).
- 3
Feel the retraction of your scapula towards your spine to create width (2:10-2:14).
- 4
Replicate the feeling of an instructor pushing your trail shoulder away from your hands, which spreads the hands out and shallows the club (6:00-7:36).
