The swing fault encyclopedia
Early extension
Quick answer: The pelvis moves toward the ball on the downswing; the spine angle set at address is lost.
What it does to the ball
Alternating fat and thin contact; blocks to the right.
Root causes (by frequency)
- Lack of glute strength/stability
- Leg-thrust pattern (TPI: early extension)
How to fix it
- Keep your glutes in contact with a reference (a wall) throughout the downswing
Drills that fix it
Posture against the wall ·
6 min · 20 reps
Hold your spine angle through impact With your back to a wall, keep your glutes in contact with it through the backswing and downswing.
Frequently asked questions
What is "Early extension" in the golf swing?
The pelvis moves toward the ball on the downswing; the spine angle set at address is lost.
What does early extension do to the ball?
Alternating fat and thin contact; blocks to the right.
How do you fix early extension?
Keep your glutes in contact with a reference (a wall) throughout the downswing
Sources
- Titleist Performance Institute — Body-Swing Connection screening
- David Leadbetter — The Golf Swing
Detect this fault in your swing free with Birdia →