In the world of elite golf, precision and consistency separate the best from the rest. One swing move that PGA Tour pros have mastered is the DEEP-TO-SHALLOW transition. This technique is key to generating powerful, controlled ball flights and making consistent, crisp contact. If you want to improve your ball-striking, understanding and implementing this move can make a significant difference in your game.

What Is the Deep to Shallow Move?

The DEEP-TO-SHALLOW move refers to how the club transitions from the top of the backswing into the downswing. When a golfer takes the club back, pros often get the club into a deep position—meaning the hands are well behind them, creating width and depth. As they transition into the downswing, they shallow the club, meaning it moves on a flatter, more inside path toward impact rather than steeply down.

This move prevents common amateur mistakes, such as coming over the top, which can lead to slices or pulls. Instead, it promotes a powerful inside-out strike that enhances accuracy and compression.

Why Is It So Effective?

The deep-to-shallow move provides several advantages:

• Better Ball Compression – A shallower path allows for solid contact and pure strikes.
• Increased Clubhead Speed – A more efficient swing path reduces energy leaks and promotes maximum power.
• Eliminates Slices and Pulls – The inside-out path helps keep the ball flight straighter and more consistent.
• Improved Turf Interaction – Shallowing the club prevents digging and allows for crisp, ball-first contact.

How PGA Pros Execute This Move

1. Creating Depth in the Backswing

Pros achieve depth by rotating their shoulders fully and ensuring their hands stay behind them at the top of the backswing. This helps store power and sets up the proper downswing sequence.

2. Transitioning Smoothly

Instead of forcing the hands and arms downward, elite players initiate the downswing with their lower body—hips and legs—while the hands and club naturally drop into a shallower plane. This move is often referred to as “dropping the club in the slot.”

3. Maintaining Wrist Angles

Pros keep their lead wrist flexed (or bowed) to ensure the clubface stays square and doesn’t get open. This helps create a shallower, more controlled strike.

4. Using Ground Force

A proper transition isn’t just about arm movement—it’s about leveraging the ground. PGA players push off their lead foot, rotating their body through impact while keeping the club on a shallow path.

Drills to Develop the Deep-to-Shallow Move

If you want to incorporate this move into your game, try these drills:

1. Pump Drill

• Swing to the top and pause.
• Drop the club slightly while keeping your lower body stable.
• Repeat this motion 2-3 times before completing the swing.

2. Chair Drill

• Place a chair or alignment stick behind your hips.
• Focus on keeping your trail hip deep in the backswing and then allowing your hands to fall naturally on the downswing.

3. Towel Under the Arm Drill

• Place a towel under your trail arm and keep it tucked during the swing.
• This helps promote a more connected, shallower downswing motion.

Conclusion
The DEEP-TO-SHALLOW move is a fundamental part of how PGA Tour players generate effortless power and precision. By incorporating this move into your own swing, you can improve ball-striking, eliminate common swing flaws, and hit purer shots. Practice the drills, focus on sequencing your downswing correctly, and soon you’ll be striking the ball like the pros.