Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you become a smarter, better golfer.

Early extension is a golf-swing killer. When your hips thrust toward the ball during the downswing, nothing good will happen. It’s a swing fault many recreational players struggle with, and one that can kill your consistency if not properly dealt with.

If you suffer from early extension, worry not — you’re not alone. Need any proof? Just check out how many results pop up when you search for a cure on google. Suffice to say, it’s a popular topic.

If you’ve stumbled upon this article, it’s safe to assume you’re one of many who struggles with the ailment. The good news is we’ve got a feel that can help you cure it, and it comes courtesy of one of the best instructors out there, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Joe Plecker. Check it out below.

A feel to fix early extension

So we all know that early extension occurs when the hips move toward the ball during the downswing. The key to eliminating it is to stop that movement as you make your swing.

Plecker has a great drill for this, and he calls it the Trail Foot Torque Drill.

Setup for the drill is simple. All you need is a slider (or a paper plate will do) to place under your trail foot. Once you’ve got it all set up, swing back to the top and then start to make your downswing. However, when you get about halfway down, stop your swing and push your trail foot behind you.

When you do this, you won’t be able to thrust your trail hip at the ball, and you’ll be forced to properly get your weight and pressure onto your lead side. Additionally, this feeling of pushing your trail foot back will help create more torque (and power) in your swing.

If you’re someone who has a chronic habit of early extension, give this drill a shot. If you can implement the feel in your swing, you’ll soon eliminate early extension and hit the ball better than ever before.

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