I think this is interesting. Smoltz says that most of the comparisons are mental, such as being target-oriented. But he makes a comparison that you rarely hear instructors make.
The idea that you shouldn't shift your weight so far forward is contrary to most instruction. Yet it makes a lot of sense when you think about it. While you don't want to make a reverse pivot, it's far too easy to overdo your weight shift. When you "use the ground" you push upward, not forward.
The Smoltz drill uses a mirror because, if your head moves too far forward -- which means your upper body has moved too far forward -- your reflection will move forward off the edge of the mirror... and it will be very noticeable! You don't need a big mirror; a small one that you can mount on a shaft stuck in the ground and position so you can see yourself will work just fine.
And yes, you can just use a tall shaft stuck vertically into the ground and positioned so your eyes go past it when you go too far forward. You just don't get that added jolt from seeing your face slide off the edge of the mirror!
The big question is... how far forward is too far? That's a reasonable question and fortunately it has a simple answer. Your lead leg should never go past vertical and, when it's vertical, your shoulders should be facing the target and your spine leaning just slightly back away from the target. The reason is that you want your chest to point slightly upward as you swing to your finish. That's a good balanced position that will allow you to fully release the club and finish your swing. But it's just a slight lean; you don't want to get into a reverse-C position that could hurt your back.
I realize that many of you won't bother with this drill because it takes a bit more effort to set up than many drills. But if you're struggling with this problem, you might find it very helpful.
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