Pre-shot fundamentals can be boring to practice, but they are absolutely essential for consistent golf. If you don’t have a consistent setup, you won’t be able to make consistent swings. It’s why you see pros constantly checking their fundamentals on the range. They know that a solid swing starts with nailing the basics.
One such fundamental is your stance. Specifically, how far away from the ball you are standing at address. It might seem trivial, but the distance you stand from the ball can have a huge impact on your contact.
When’s the last time you monitored the distance you stand from the ball? If you’re like most recreational players, it’s likely the thought has never even crossed your mind.
If you find yourself in that camp, check out the advice below from GOLF Top 100 Teacher Mark Durland. He has a test you can use to make sure you’re standing the correct distance from the ball.
Are you standing the correct distance from the golf ball?
If your ball-striking feels inconsistent — some shots off the toe, others off the heel, and none quite solid — the problem might not be your swing. It could be your setup, specifically how far you’re standing from the ball.
Most golfers overlook this detail. They’ll tweak their grip, try to shallow their transition, or even buy new clubs before considering whether they’re simply standing too close — or too far — from the ball. But poor spacing can throw off your posture, balance and swing before the club even moves an inch.
So how do you know if you’re too close, too far or just right? There’s a simple, intuitive check that gives you immediate feedback — and chances are, you’ve never been taught it.
The right-hand drop test
This feel-based calibration isn’t an exact science, but it’s surprisingly effective at dialing in your spacing.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Set up to the ball as you normally would, with both hands on the club.
2. Let your right hand drop naturally off the grip.
3. Observe where it falls:
— If your hand swings inside the grip, you’re likely too far from the ball.
— If it falls in front of the grip, you’re probably too close.
— If it drops back near the grip, you’re in a neutral, balanced setup.
Why this drill works
Your body has natural balance points. When you’re in an athletic, relaxed posture, your arms want to hang straight down. This drill uses that natural positioning to help you find a setup that promotes a free, efficient swing.
Try it before your next round
The right-hand drop test takes just a few seconds on the range or tee box — and it can dramatically improve your consistency. Don’t overlook the basics. Small changes at setup often lead to big results in ball-striking.
