If you are a golfer who has lost the use of one hand or has a disability that makes it difficult to play with two hands, you might feel like golfing is no longer an option. But have no fear, one-handed golf is a real and viable option that allows golfers to continue playing and improving their game. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of playing one-handed golf, provide some tips and drills to improve your game, and share some inspiring success stories of golfers who have mastered the one-handed swing.
Playing golf with one hand may seem like an impossible task, but it’s not. Many golfers have discovered that they can play and even excel at the sport with just one hand. It takes some adaptation, technique, and practice, but it’s absolutely doable. Not only does playing one-handed golf allow you to continue enjoying the game you love, but it can also improve your game in unexpected ways.
If you’re ready to learn more about one-handed golf and how it can help you, keep reading. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, these tips, drills, and success stories will inspire you to give it a try and see the benefits for yourself.
Table of Contents
Why One-Handed Golf?
Have you ever considered playing golf with one hand? While it may seem unconventional, there are several reasons why one-handed golf could be the right choice for you. First, it can be an excellent way to improve your golf game. By focusing on one hand, you can fine-tune your swing and develop better control over the ball’s direction and distance.
Second, playing one-handed can be a fun and challenging way to switch things up on the course. It can also be a great way to stay in the game after an injury or disability that affects one of your hands.
Finally, one-handed golf can help you develop a unique style that sets you apart from other golfers. It’s a great way to stand out on the course and showcase your skills.
If you’re curious about one-handed golf and want to learn more, keep reading! We’ll cover everything you need to know about getting started with one-handed golf, including tips, drills, and gear recommendations to help you improve your game and have fun on the course.
Unleash Your Inner Golfer By Playing With One Hand
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Increased Challenge: Playing golf with only one hand presents a unique challenge that can help you improve your game. It requires you to focus on your swing and form, leading to a stronger, more consistent swing when you return to using both hands.
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Adaptable for All: One-handed golf can be played by anyone, regardless of their physical ability. It is a great option for those with disabilities or injuries that prevent them from using both hands, and can be a fun way to stay active and engaged in the sport.
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Variety of Shots: Playing with one hand can help you develop a wider variety of shots, as you learn to adapt and make the most out of your swing. You may find yourself using shots and techniques that you wouldn’t have tried with both hands, leading to a more creative and versatile game.
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Unique Perspective: Playing with one hand can provide a unique perspective on the game of golf. You may discover new challenges and strategies that you wouldn’t have considered before, leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sport.
Playing golf with one hand may seem like a daunting challenge, but it can also be a rewarding and enjoyable way to improve your game. Give it a try and see how it can unleash your inner golfer.
Tips For One-Handed Golf Swing
Playing golf with one hand requires a lot of precision and technique. Here are some tips to help you perfect your one-handed swing:
Start with the basics: Before you start practicing your one-handed swing, make sure you have a solid foundation of the fundamentals of golf. This includes your grip, stance, posture, and alignment.
Adjust your swing: When playing with one hand, you’ll need to adjust your swing to compensate for the missing hand. Focus on using your non-dominant hand to generate power and control the club, while using your dominant hand to guide the swing.
Practice, practice, practice: One-handed golf requires a lot of practice and repetition to master. Take the time to work on your swing, and focus on improving one aspect at a time. Set aside some time each week to practice your one-handed swing and track your progress.
Master Your Grip
Adjust Your Grip – When playing with one hand, it’s essential to have a grip that provides enough control and power. Position your club in the fingers of your hand, with your thumb pointing down the shaft.
Use Your Strong Hand – For those who have a dominant hand, it’s advisable to use it as the primary hand for one-handed golf. This allows for a more natural grip, and it’s easier to control the club’s swing.
Focus on the Pressure Points – One-handed golf requires a bit more focus on the pressure points of your grip. Use your fingers and wrist to apply pressure to the club, ensuring it stays firmly in your hand during your swing.
Rotate Your Shoulders And Hips
Start with a good stance: A strong and stable stance is key to generating power in your swing. Set your feet shoulder-width apart, with your toes pointing forward and your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
Rotate your shoulders: Focus on turning your lead shoulder (the one closest to the target) toward the ball during the backswing, while keeping your trailing shoulder (the one farthest from the target) pointed away. On the downswing, reverse this motion, turning your trailing shoulder toward the ball and your lead shoulder away.
Hip rotation: As you rotate your shoulders, it’s important to also rotate your hips. This allows you to generate power and accuracy in your swing. During the backswing, turn your lead hip away from the target, and during the downswing, turn your trailing hip toward the target.
Practice your timing: Properly timing your shoulder and hip rotation is essential for a smooth and consistent swing. Take the time to practice your swing with one hand, focusing on getting your shoulder and hip rotation in sync with each other.
By focusing on proper shoulder and hip rotation, you’ll be able to generate more power and accuracy in your one-handed golf swing. Keep practicing to hone your skills and perfect your technique.
Follow Through With Your Swing
Extend your arms: As you finish your one-handed golf swing, make sure to fully extend your arm in the direction of the target. This will help generate more power and accuracy in your shot.
Rotate your hips and shoulders: In addition to rotating your shoulders during your backswing, it’s important to continue the motion during your follow-through. This will allow you to maintain balance and generate more clubhead speed.
Maintain good posture: It’s crucial to keep your head and upper body still while you finish your swing. This will help you make solid contact with the ball and prevent mis-hits.
Practice: The follow-through is just as important as the backswing in a one-handed golf swing. Take time to practice finishing your swing with a smooth and balanced motion, and you’ll see an improvement in your game.
By following through with your one-handed golf swing, you can improve your ball flight, generate more power and accuracy, and take your game to the next level.
One-Handed Golf Drills To Improve Your Game
One-Handed Putting
Practicing one-handed putting can help you develop a smooth and consistent putting stroke. Try putting with just your dominant hand and then switch to your non-dominant hand. This drill can also help you develop a better feel for distance and speed control.
One-Handed Chipping
Chipping with one hand can help you develop a more stable and controlled chipping motion. Practice chipping with just your dominant hand and then switch to your non-dominant hand. This drill can also help you develop better touch around the greens.
One-Handed Iron Shots
Practicing one-handed iron shots can help you develop a more efficient and powerful swing. Start with shorter clubs and gradually work your way up to longer clubs. This drill can also help you develop better ball-striking skills.
Swing Path Drill
The swing path is critical in the golf swing, as it determines the direction of your shot. One drill to improve your swing path is the “gate” drill.
To do this drill, place two alignment sticks or golf clubs about a foot apart on the ground, perpendicular to your target line. Swing the club through the “gate” without touching the sticks. This drill will help you maintain a straighter swing path and improve your accuracy.
Another drill to improve your swing path is the “towel drill.” Fold a towel and place it under your right armpit (for right-handed golfers) and hold it there with your arm. This drill will encourage you to swing on a more upright plane, preventing your swing from getting too flat or shallow.
It’s important to practice these drills regularly to develop muscle memory and improve your swing path. Remember to start with slow, deliberate swings and gradually increase your speed and power as your technique improves.
Alignment Drill
Alignment is crucial to a successful golf swing. To practice alignment, place a club on the ground parallel to your target line. Then, stand behind the club and take your stance, aiming your body and clubface directly at the target. Use the club on the ground as a guide to ensure your feet, hips, and shoulders are properly aligned. Practice hitting balls from this position until your alignment becomes more natural.
Another alignment drill involves placing two clubs on the ground, forming a “railroad track” for your ball to roll through. Position the clubs parallel to your target line and hit balls, aiming to have them travel through the “track.” This drill can help you visualize your target line and develop proper alignment.
When practicing alignment drills, it’s important to focus on the fundamentals and not get too caught up in hitting perfect shots. The goal is to develop muscle memory for proper alignment, which will ultimately improve your golf game.
Essential Gear For One-Handed Golfers
Golf is a sport that requires specialized gear, and playing one-handed requires even more consideration when it comes to equipment. Here are some essential pieces of gear for one-handed golfers:
Golf Glove: A golf glove provides a better grip on the club and protects the hand from blisters. Make sure to get a glove that fits properly and is designed for one-handed use.
Club Grips: Grips on golf clubs can make a big difference in the game for one-handed golfers. Look for grips that are larger in diameter or have a more textured surface to improve grip strength and control.
Training Aids: There are many training aids available specifically designed for one-handed golfers. These aids can help improve grip, swing, and overall technique.
Adaptive Equipment: There are various pieces of adaptive equipment available to help one-handed golfers play the game. This includes specially designed golf carts, ball teeing devices, and even clubs with modified shafts and heads.
Investing in the right gear can make all the difference when it comes to playing golf one-handed. With the right equipment, one-handed golfers can enjoy the game to its fullest.
Adaptive Gloves
One-handed golfers can benefit from using specialized gloves. Adaptive gloves have a modified design that allows golfers to grip the club more securely with one hand. They feature extra padding, a secure fastening system, and a rubberized grip material.
Adaptive gloves come in a variety of styles and materials to suit different golfers’ needs. Some gloves have a Velcro strap that can be adjusted for a snug fit, while others have a slip-on design. Some gloves are made of leather, while others are made of synthetic materials that are more durable and moisture-resistant.
When shopping for an adaptive glove, make sure to try on several different sizes and styles to find one that fits comfortably and provides the support you need. You may also want to consider purchasing gloves with padding on the palm or fingers for added protection and comfort.
Overall, adaptive gloves are an essential piece of gear for one-handed golfers. They can help golfers achieve a better grip on the club, which can lead to better swing mechanics and more consistent shots.
Golf Club Attachments
If you have limited mobility or strength in one hand, there are several golf club attachments that can help you achieve a better grip and swing. These attachments can be easily added to your existing clubs or purchased as specialized one-handed clubs. Here are some popular attachments to consider:
- Grip aids: These attachments fit over the club’s grip and provide a larger, more comfortable grip surface, which can improve grip strength and stability.
- Club adapters: Adapters allow golfers to attach the club to their forearm or wrist, providing added stability and control.
- Counterbalance weights: Adding weights to the butt end of the club can help balance the weight of the clubhead, making it easier to control and swing with one hand.
- Modified shafts: Some companies offer golf club shafts that are designed specifically for one-handed use, with modifications such as shorter length, additional flex, and a smaller grip size.
When selecting golf club attachments, it’s important to consider your specific needs and abilities. Consult with a professional or experienced one-handed golfer to determine which attachments will be most helpful for your game.
The Benefits Of Playing One-Handed Golf
Improved Coordination: Playing one-handed golf can improve your coordination as it requires the use of one hand, making you more focused on your swing and balance.
Increased Challenge: Playing one-handed golf can be more challenging than traditional golf, providing a new level of excitement and satisfaction when you hit a good shot.
Accessibility: One-handed golf can be a great option for individuals with disabilities or injuries that make it difficult to play traditional golf. With adaptive equipment and techniques, almost anyone can play and enjoy the game.
Enhance Your Coordination And Concentration
Improved Coordination: Playing one-handed golf requires a high level of coordination as it challenges your balance and stability. Practicing this technique can enhance your coordination skills and help you develop better control over your swing.
Enhanced Concentration: Playing one-handed golf requires a higher level of concentration than traditional golf. With only one hand on the club, you must be fully focused on the swing, ball, and direction. This heightened level of concentration can transfer to other areas of your life.
Strengthened Mind-Body Connection: One-handed golf requires you to use your mind and body in unison. You must visualize your shot and execute it with precision, which strengthens the connection between your mind and body.
Greater Challenge: One-handed golf provides a unique and exciting challenge for golfers who want to improve their skills and challenge themselves. It adds a level of difficulty to the game that can make traditional golf feel easy in comparison.
Success Stories Of One-Handed Golfers
Despite facing challenges, many one-handed golfers have achieved remarkable success in the sport. Dan from California lost his left hand in a car accident, but went on to become a scratch golfer. He says that adapting to one-handed play actually helped him improve his swing.
Tony from Arizona was born without his right hand, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing his passion for golf. He went on to win several tournaments and is now a motivational speaker, sharing his story and inspiring others to overcome their own obstacles.
Matt from Florida lost his right hand due to cancer, but that didn’t deter him from playing golf. He now uses a prosthetic hand to hold his club and has won multiple championships in his category.
Casey from Texas lost his dominant left hand in an accident, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing his dream of playing golf. With determination and hard work, he became a top amateur golfer and now competes at the professional level.
The Inspiring Story Of Tommy Morrissey
Determination and perseverance are two qualities that Tommy Morrissey, a young one-handed golfer, possesses in abundance. Despite being born without his right arm, Tommy picked up a golf club at the age of just 14 months and never looked back.
By the time he was three, Tommy was hitting full golf shots, and at just six years old, he appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, wowing audiences with his incredible talent and infectious personality. Since then, Tommy has gone on to win numerous tournaments and inspire people all around the world with his can-do attitude and love for the game of golf.
Tommy’s story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and serves as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
How Andrew Jensen Proved Skeptics Wrong
Andrew Jensen was born with a shortened left arm but never let that stop him from pursuing his passion for golf. However, when he began playing professionally, he faced skepticism from many in the golf community.
Despite the naysayers, Jensen persevered and eventually earned his PGA Tour Canada card in 201He went on to become the first one-armed golfer to compete in a PGA Tour-sanctioned event since 1968.
But Jensen’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. He had to adapt his swing to compensate for his shortened arm, which required countless hours of practice and dedication. He also faced discrimination from other players who didn’t believe he belonged on the course.
However, Jensen didn’t let any of this hold him back. He continued to work hard and prove his worth, and ultimately became an inspiration to many aspiring golfers with disabilities.
How Brandon Canesi Became A One-Handed Golf Sensation
Accident Leads to Opportunity: Brandon Canesi was just 9 years old when he lost his left hand in a boating accident. Despite this setback, he continued to play golf and found a passion for the game.
Perseverance Pays Off: Canesi faced many challenges as a one-handed golfer, but he never gave up. He spent countless hours practicing and refining his technique, eventually becoming a successful amateur golfer.
Becoming A Social Media Sensation: Canesi’s talent and inspiring story caught the attention of people around the world. He started sharing his journey on social media, quickly gaining a large following and becoming a golf sensation.
How One-Handed Golf Can Help Your Overall Game
If you’re looking to improve your golf game, consider trying one-handed golf. It can help you develop your coordination, concentration, and balance, which are essential skills for any golfer.
Playing one-handed golf can also help you improve your swing and develop a smoother, more consistent motion. By practicing with one hand, you can focus on your technique and make adjustments to your grip, stance, and posture.
Additionally, playing one-handed golf can help you develop mental toughness and overcome challenges on the course. You’ll learn to adapt to different situations and become more confident in your abilities.
One-handed golf is also a great way to add variety to your golf routine and challenge yourself to try new things. It’s a fun and rewarding way to improve your overall game and enhance your enjoyment of the sport.
So if you’re ready to take your golf game to the next level, give one-handed golf a try. You might be surprised at how much it can help!
Maximize Your Training And Improve Your Performance
If you’re serious about improving your golf game, you need to maximize your training. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
- Set specific goals: Setting specific goals for your training will help you focus and make progress towards improving your game.
- Use training aids: There are many training aids available that can help you work on your swing, grip, and other aspects of your game. Find ones that work for you and incorporate them into your training.
- Work on your weaknesses: It’s easy to focus on what you’re already good at, but if you want to improve, you need to identify and work on your weaknesses.
By following these tips, you can improve your training and see better results on the course. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some tips for playing golf with only one hand?
There are several tips that can help you play golf with only one hand. First, consider modifying your equipment to suit your needs. This may include using specialized clubs or grips. Second, focus on building strength and flexibility in your non-dominant hand and arm to compensate for the missing limb. Third, practice your swing technique to make up for any imbalances caused by the missing limb. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.
Are there any specialized clubs or attachments for one-handed golfers?
Yes, there are several specialized clubs and attachments designed specifically for one-handed golfers. These may include prosthetic devices, modified clubs with special grips or longer shafts, or attachments that allow the golfer to attach the club to their body for added stability. It’s important to consult with a golf professional or medical professional to determine which equipment is best for your needs.
Can someone who has never played golf before learn to play with only one hand?
Yes, anyone can learn to play golf with only one hand, regardless of previous experience. It may take some practice and patience, but with the right equipment and technique, anyone can learn to play the game. It’s important to consult with a golf professional or medical professional to determine the best approach for your specific situation.
Is one-handed golf considered a separate sport from traditional golf?
No, one-handed golf is not considered a separate sport from traditional golf. It is simply a modified form of the game that allows individuals with physical limitations to participate. One-handed golfers can still compete in traditional golf tournaments and events, and many golf courses offer accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
What are some of the benefits of playing one-handed golf?
Playing one-handed golf can offer several benefits, including improved coordination and concentration, increased physical strength and flexibility, and a sense of accomplishment and independence. One-handed golf can also help individuals with physical limitations improve their overall quality of life and stay active and engaged in their communities.
Are there any professional one-handed golfers?
Yes, there are several professional one-handed golfers who have achieved success in the sport. These individuals have proven that physical limitations do not have to be a barrier to success in golf. Some examples include Tommy Morrissey, Andrew Jensen, and Brandon Canesi, who have all gained national attention for their skills on the golf course.