Launch monitor technology has become more and more prevalent at every level of golf—from tour players to junior golf programs. But when you're practicing on the range, chances are you won’t always have that kind of tech with you. So how do you understand your swing without a launch monitor?
There are four main data points launch monitors give us: club path, face angle, attack angle, and centeredness of contact. If you can master those four—whether you're a beginner or part of a junior golf team—it becomes very hard to play poorly.
Here’s how to measure and improve each of these metrics using simple golf drills that require no technology.
1. Club Path Drill
If you’re struggling with club path, there’s an easy fix. Stick an alignment stick in the ground behind the ball so that it rises on a slight angle, with the tip hovering directly above the ball. The lower the stick, the more you’ll need to swing from the inside to avoid hitting it.
✅ Great for fixing an over-the-top move.
⚠️ If you swing too far from the inside, flip the drill—place the alignment stick between your stance and the ball to encourage a more neutral path.
This is a great golf practice game for kids, too—it gives instant feedback and makes learning feel like a challenge.
2. Club Face Drill
Club face is the simplest to diagnose—but arguably the hardest to fix. To understand where your club face is at impact, watch where the ball launches.
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If your ball starts right of your target line, your face is pointed right.
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The face controls launch direction, not where the ball lands.
To train club face control, exaggerate your correction. If your ball starts right, try to start it far left. It might feel extreme—but feel isn’t always real. This helps build awareness and gives you command over the club face.
3. Attack Angle / Low Point Drill
Struggling with fat or thin shots? Your attack angle or low point is likely off. Here's a classic drill:
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Place a towel 3–4 inches behind your ball.
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Try to hit clean shots without touching the towel.
If you strike the ball without hitting the towel, your attack angle is likely on track. This is one of the best golf drills for kids because it’s easy to set up and teaches clean contact fast.
4. Centeredness of Contact Drill
Often overlooked, centeredness of contact affects both distance and direction. Miss the sweet spot and you lose power—and often add unwanted sidespin.
Try this:
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Create a tee gate—two tees set the width of a clubface apart.
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Place the ball in the center and hit shots without touching either tee.
For instant feedback, spray your clubface with powdered foot spray. You’ll see exactly where the ball is making contact. This should be a daily drill in every junior golfer’s routine—and it’s a fun challenge for all ages.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're using Legends of the Links cards or just out for a casual practice, knowing how to self-diagnose your swing makes your time on the range more effective. These drills aren’t just for advanced players—they’re the building blocks for anyone learning the game, especially kids in junior golf programs.