8 Smart Ways to Use Alignment Sticks on the Range or at Home
Alignment sticks are one of the most versatile training aids in golf. Whether you’re grinding on the driving range or squeezing in a few reps in your backyard, these simple tools can help fix swing flaws, improve aim, and develop better habits — without breaking the bank.
At Pivot Golf, we handcraft custom hickory alignment sticks that combine function with style. Here’s how to get the most out of them.
1. Check Your Alignment (The Classic Use)
Lay one stick along your toe line and another pointing toward your target. This helps ensure your body is properly aligned — feet, hips, shoulders — something even low handicappers often get wrong. A solid setup leads to a consistent swing path.
2. Train Your Ball Position
Ball position can creep without you noticing. Use a stick perpendicular to your stance line to see if you're placing the ball too far forward or back for different clubs. Consistent ball position = consistent contact.
3. Groove the Swing Plane
Stick one alignment stick in the ground at an angle that matches your club shaft at address. Swing without hitting the stick to work on keeping your swing on plane. It’s a visual checkpoint that helps you avoid coming over the top or getting too flat.
4. Improve Your Hip Turn
Place a stick just outside your back hip in your setup. If your hips sway too much on the backswing, you'll bump into the stick. The goal is to turn, not slide. This drill is great for adding rotation and improving ball-striking.
5. Sharpen Your Putting Stroke
Lay down two sticks as a “rail” just wider than your putter head. Practice putting between them to build a straight back, straight through stroke. It’s simple, but it trains path, pace, and consistency.
6. Chipping and Pitching Gates
Use two sticks to create a narrow landing zone target for your chips. It helps develop touch and precision. Want to test yourself? Shrink the gap and track how many out of 10 you can land inside it.
7. Footwork and Pressure Shift Drills
Lay a stick behind your heels while hitting balls barefoot or in socks. Feel if your weight is staying balanced or if you're swaying. This is a great at-home drill for understanding ground pressure and maintaining posture.
8. Build a Pre-Shot Routine
Use your alignment sticks to simulate your full setup at home. Go through your routine: pick a target, step into the shot, align the clubface, and swing. Repeating this routine can help reduce nerves on the course and make your game more automatic.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a launch monitor to improve your swing. All you need is a little space, some time — and a pair of alignment sticks.
At Pivot Golf, we create custom hand-painted hickory alignment sticks that not only improve your game but look great doing it. Whether you're practicing on the range, in the garage, or in your backyard, these timeless tools are your silent coaches.
Train smart. Swing with purpose. Look good doing it.
