The Drill Tiger Woods Hated (But Couldn't Quit)

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The Drill Tiger Woods Hated (But Couldn't Quit)

August 23, 2024

Tiger Woods, a name synonymous with golfing dominance, is known for his relentless dedication and unwavering commitment to perfecting his game. His legendary work ethic, bordering on obsessive, has been well-documented throughout his career. But even for a player of Woods' caliber, some aspects of training were less enjoyable than others. Among the most notorious was a particularly grueling drill he both despised and relied upon: the "Little Drill," often referred to as the "Three-Ball Drill" or variations thereof. This wasn't a drill focusing on long drives or intricate approach shots; instead, it honed the very fundamentals that underpinned Woods' unparalleled accuracy and control.

The drill, as described by various sources including Woods himself in interviews and coaching analyses, involved hitting three consecutive shots with a specific focus on a tight dispersion pattern. These shots were typically performed with a short iron, such as a pitching wedge or nine-iron, and were aimed at a very small target area, often a designated spot on the practice green no larger than a dinner plate. The key wasn't power or distance, but pinpoint precision. Each shot had to land within this tiny window, with minimal deviation. If a shot missed the target, the golfer would have to start the sequence again from the beginning. This demanded intense focus, concentration, and unwavering repetition, pushing the golfer to the very limit of their mental and physical capabilities.

Woods himself has acknowledged the drill's effectiveness, even while expressing his dislike for it. The sheer repetition, the pressure to maintain accuracy under relentless pressure, and the frustration of repeated failures all contributed to its unpopularity amongst Woods’ training regime. However, he recognized that the drill's value lay in its ability to ingrain muscle memory and improve feel for the club, ultimately translating into a level of control that was virtually unmatched on the course. This meticulous attention to detail, cultivated through countless repetitions of the "Little Drill", became a cornerstone of his remarkable success.

Beyond the technical aspects, the drill also offered significant mental conditioning. The ability to maintain focus despite repeated failures, to persevere through frustration and self-doubt – these mental strengths were also refined through the grueling process. This aspect likely resonated deeply with Woods, who famously overcame significant adversity and personal challenges throughout his career. The mental fortitude honed on the practice green undoubtedly played a crucial role in his ability to perform under pressure on the world's biggest stages.

While specific details regarding the exact parameters of the "Little Drill" – target size, club selection, and precise number of repetitions – may vary across different accounts, the core concept remains consistent: a relentless pursuit of precision and control through repetitive practice. This seemingly simple drill became a powerful testament to Woods' unyielding commitment to excellence, showcasing the demanding nature of his training regimen and the unwavering discipline required to achieve greatness in professional golf. Even the Tiger couldn't avoid the sting of this tiny target. The drill itself wasn't glamorous, but its impact on his game undeniably was.