This Ramp Drill Helps Golfers Control Wedge Shot Trajectory

Controlling wedge trajectory comes down to how much loft a golfer delivers at impact, and instructors say a simple ramp drill is a more reliable fix than the common move of playing the ball back in the stance.

What causes an inconsistent low wedge shot?

Many golfers try to flight a wedge down by moving the ball farther back at address or forcing their hands forward before the swing starts. That can lower the trajectory, but it often creates an overly steep strike and inconsistent contact instead of a controlled, penetrating flight.

How does the ramp drill work?

The drill uses a ramp placed behind the ball, angled to represent the downward strike and forward shaft lean needed at impact. Hitting short wedge shots while focusing on letting the hands lead the clubhead helps a golfer feel the shaft leaning forward as the club continues moving down into the ball.

That combination, a descending strike paired with forward shaft lean, reduces the loft presented at impact and produces a lower ball flight without the steep, inconsistent contact that comes from manipulating ball position alone.

How should golfers practice it?

Starting with small swings helps a golfer learn what the correct impact feels like before lengthening the swing and experimenting with different trajectories. Once that low-point control becomes repeatable, wedge play stops depending on switching clubs or shifting ball position to change flight.