The most common error for the recreational and beginner golfer is a slice. It is a ball that curves from left to right for the right-handed golfer. In this article we will be addressing the right-handed golfer, so a lefty will just have to switch left and right.
There are many reasons why you could be slicing your driver. You could have an incorrect grip, too steep a swing path, and an open clubface at impact. If your drives are starting to the left and “banana” to the right, I have some tips for you.
I first look at your equipment and make sure that the grip on the club is the correct size. Too large a grip can cause you to hold on too tight and not be able to release the clubface after impact.
Another area of equipment is the shaft flex. If the shaft is too stiff, you will tend to hit the ball to the right.
Finally, consider the loft of the driver. Most amateurs need to have more loft on their drivers. The new adjustable drivers let you increase the loft and move more weight to the clubhead’s heel.
Next, I look at how you set your hands on the club’s grip. Most slicers have too weak a grip with their thumbs pointing straight down on the grip and the right hand too much on top of the left. You need to move both hands slightly to the right so the V’s formed by your thumb and index finger are pointing at your right armpit instead of your chin.
Grip pressure needs to be light. Do not hold the grip tightly in the palms. Instead hold the club lightly in your fingers.
Most slicers take the club back too inside causing the clubface to open. You need to feel like you push away the club straight back with your left arm.
A major cause of the slice is your clubface is open to the target line. Move your ball position back more toward the center of your stance and this will help you make contact with the ball in a path out to the target.
Tilting your spine angle behind the ball at address and keeping your center behind the ball at impact will help you shallow your swing and square the clubface.
The path that you swing the club is very important. You want to approach the ball on the forward swing from the inside and swing out to the target. Most slicers have an outside-in swing path. To cure the outside-in path, make sure your right shoulder is behind the ball at impact.
Remember if you can turn your banana ball drive into a straight drive, I guarantee that your scores will improve.
Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean.com
