Intermediate Target Alignment: Get Aligned Correctly for Every Shot
Alignment in golf is not a sexy subject, yet it is a critical element of the golf game.
The first thing we work on with many Under Par players is alignment. When players are not properly aligned, they tend to compensate for this with movements in their body or hands that lead to poor shots and inconsistent strikes. Thus, we fix the alignment and then upload new progress videos once the alignment is corrected to see if these compensating moves have disappeared.
On the range, players tend to use alignment rods to get themselves in the proper alignment for each swing. Players do not have this luxury on the course. So what tool can you use to get aligned correctly for every shot?
Enter the Intermediate Target Alignment Aid
An intermediate target is a visual target aid a few feet or yards in front of your golf ball. The visual target could be a leaf, a divot, a blade of grass or anything that you can easily pick out with your eye.
This intermediate target should be in a linear line between your target and your golf ball.
For most players, an intermediate target is easier to align with because it is much closer than the ultimate target that is far in the distance.
Heck, Jack Nicklaus was the one who made the intermediate target alignment famous. If it works for Jack, it is probably worth trying.
Practicing Your Intermediate Target Alignment
Next time you are on the range see if this tool is effective for you by trying the following:
- Pick a target 150 yards in the distance.
- Pick an intermediate target to use for that target and get aligned to hit a shot using the intermediate target as your alignment aid.
- Put a club against your feet and ensure that club is aligned parallel to your ultimate target.
- Repeat this process for a total of 10 alignments with different targets in the distance.
