How to Get Instant Feedback from Alignment Sticks

When you’re hitting balls solo on the range, it can be difficult to self-diagnose problems with your swing. If you don’t properly align with your target, it’s even harder to gauge your accuracy.

Alignment sticks can help.

First, place one stick about a clubhead-length outside of the ball and point it directly toward your target. You’ll then set up the second stick parallel to the first on the other side of the ball. It should be a few inches in front of your feet.

As you address the ball, “it’s very important to have your hands, hips and shoulders set up parallel to these lines,” PGA professional Jonas DeWitte says of alignment sticks.

When you are set up this way, you should be able to tell if you’re hooking or slicing the ball and adjust yourself accordingly.

“You get instant feedback when you hit a shot when you’re set up parallel,” says DeWitte.

Looking for more on alignment sticks? Golf Champion Joey Sindelar shares his tips on how to use alignment sticks, too.