A golf swing training system is provided including a light source (12) such as a laser light that generates a light beam from the grip end of a golf club and a mat (14) having disposed thereon graphics depicting preferred light beam paths (22a, 22b, 22c). Upon swinging the golf club such that the light beam projects upon the mat following one of the light beam paths (22a, 22b, 22c), golfers are taught how to swing the club along a preferred swing plane.