Instructional Video
Equipment Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Set up two alignment sticks on the range: one aiming straight at a target and a second one a few yards to the side, angled to represent a curved ball flight path (for example, a stick to the left for a draw or to the right for a fade for a right-hander).
To practice a draw: aim the clubface at the target (or slightly right of it for a right-hander) and align your body right of the target. Swing along your body line and release the club to impart right-to-left spin. The ball should start right and curve back left toward the target.
To practice a fade: do the opposite. Aim the face at the target (or slightly left of it) and align your stance left. Swing along that line with a slightly open face to path, causing a left-to-right shot.
Alternate between hitting a draw and a fade. The goal is to have the ball start on one stick's line and curve toward the line of the other stick. By practicing shaping shots, you improve clubface control and swing path awareness.
Professional Endorsement
Shot-shaping drills are used by many elite players; for example, Bubba Watson is famous for curving the ball on command, and Tiger Woods often practices hitting fades and draws during warm-ups to ensure he has complete control over his driver.