Here's a very useful drill that I teach to make sure your staying balanced and centered over the ball at address. One of the biggest problems all golfers face is too much lateral movement off the ball which is called (Swaying).So next time your at the practice range,golf course or even your own backyard try this simple,yet effective drill.

First,In order to be effective with this particular drill you need to have a sunny day.Place a golf ball on the ground and with the sun directly to your back and then take your stance over the ball.Next,make sure the shadow of your head is directly covering the ball in front of you.Depending upon the time of the day you may have to move backwards off the ball a little more in order to make a swing.Now as you make your swing with your shadow of your head covering the ball take note if your shadow moves off the ball as you take the club to the top of your backswing.Your shadow will move slightly as you go back,but if your shadow moves completely off the ball you have swayed.What this means is that on your downswing your going to have to re-route your swing in order to get back to the ball in order to make any kind of good contact.By moving your shadow off the ball you have lost your correct swing center.

The key is to keep your shadow of your head on the ball going back and at impact and after you hit the ball the head can move off towards your target.If your shadow has remained on the ball you have maintained your swing center or balance.Repeat this drill often to reinforce good habits that will mesh into your normal swing yielding great results.Doing this exercise daily will erase any errors beyond a shadow of a doubt.

Special Reminder: April 23rd from 9am till 3pm I will at Bob Moore's sports center in Colleyville conducting a day of free golf lessons for everyone in attendance.Beginners to advanced golfers are welcome.Everyone who attends will receive a free dvd of my golf tips if they say they read it in this newspaper column.

Actor James Hampton who starred in movies like"The Longest Yard,Slingblade,Teen Wolf, China Syndrome will be there in the early afternoon to hit some shots and sign some autographs.I'm excited to help everyone because golf is a terrific activity that everyone can enjoy regardless of age.Also, people will have an opportunity to test their swings on my 'Powerline Swing" machine I created and co-designed with engineer Brian Costa of Flower Mound.This unique training device will help you visualize for the first time what keeping the club in the slot really means.I am happy that people here in North Texas will have the opportunity to experience first hand this revolutionary new device geared to helping correct swing flaws.It's okay to make a mistake in your swing as we all do,however now you'll know what caused the error and how to make the proper correction. So bring your clubs and your questions so we can fix your problems and get you headed on the right path to great golf!

Tom Ward can be reached at www.adventurousgolf.com or at 817-832-2317.