Golf coach Carolyn explains how swing width and radius can help you generate more power without swinging any harder. Using two alignment sticks as visual cues, she walks through the push-versus-pull concept that separates amateur ball strikers from tour professionals. If you want to convert more par-five layups into birdies, this drill is worth your time.
Coach Carolyn – Short Game
In this video, Coach Carolyn breaks down the concept of swing width and radius — two technical keys that underpin effortless-looking ball striking on tour. Working with a pitching wedge, she introduces a simple two-stage drill designed to improve contact and power, particularly on shots from 60 yards and in. Whether you are working on your pitching or looking to sharpen your iron play, the principles here apply across the bag.
Key Takeaways Push through the backswing
At the halfway-back position, focus on pushing away with your trail hand so your lead arm stays straight and wide — this is the foundation of swing width.
Maintain the 90-degree angle
At the point where your lead arm is parallel to the ground in the backswing, the angle between your trail arm and the shaft should be close to 90 degrees — collapsing this angle early is a common amateur fault.
Progress from push-push to push-pull-push
Start by practising a half swing with a push feeling both back and through; once that feels solid, introduce a slight narrowing on the downswing to add lag and extra power through the ball.
Take a pitching wedge to the range, set up two alignment sticks or head covers as targets, and spend around 20 balls simply focusing on that push feeling halfway back and halfway through before adding the downswing piece. This video suits players who want to improve their pitching contact and build more consistent short-game power without overhauling their entire swing.
Carolin Pinegger is a Leadbetter Certified Instructor and former LPGA/Symetra Tour player with over 25 years in competitive golf and teaching. Known as Coach Carolin, she specialises in swing analysis, mental game strategy, and building the kind of solid foundations that lead to lasting improvement.
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