Even when they’re in peak performance, the best golfers are constantly working on their game. From fine-tuning mechanics to maintenance drills, they are always trying to improve. Just look at 2025 Truist champion, Sepp Straka.
Over the weekend, Straka, currently second on Tour in Strokes Gained: Approach, was spotted on the range doing a simple yet effective drill: hitting balls with an alignment rod tucked under his trail arm.
To better understand what he was working on, Sean Martin, lead editor at the PGA Tour, asked Straka about the purpose of this drill.
Sepp Straka is one of the most accurate players on TOUR. He’s 2nd in SG: Approach and 14th in Driving Accuracy. And now he’s a top-10 player in the world.
— Sean Martin (@PGATOURSMartin) May 12, 2025
You’ll often see him hitting shots with an alignment stick under his right armpit. Watch below to learn why. pic.twitter.com/BZt1JHA9jW
“I have a tendency to kinda get disconnected,” Straka said. “I kind of get a little bit of a flying right elbow, and [the drill] just kind of helps me with that.”
“Same through impact,” Straka continued. “I kind of have a tendency of extending a little bit. Just kind of helps me hit the shot with my body a little better.”
How it can help your game
As Straka explains, this drill helps him stay connected in his swing. By keeping that arm pinned to his side so he doesn’t lose the alignment aid, his arms and torso almost move as one, which reduces unnecessary movement and encourages a more compact, efficient move.
That’s why it’s so effective at minimizing the flying right elbow and preventing early extension through impact — two common swing faults, especially among amateur players.
It’s also a great drill if your swing tends to get out of sync, with your arms racing ahead of your body. This drill can help bring things back into rhythm, which will result in more consistent contact.
To try it out, place an alignment rod or similar training aid under your arms. Begin making small, controlled swings at half speed. Once that feels comfortable, gradually lengthen your swing while maintaining that connection. Remember, this isn’t about power.
When you can complete a full swing at the reduced speed with proper form, start ramping up to your normal swing tempo. With a little practice you’ll start to notice an improvement in your sequencing and ball striking — which often results in effortless power.
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