Correcting Your Golf Slice

Like any golf strategy, correcting a slice is a process.
By working your way through the possible culprits, you
will eventually find the cause of your problem. Here are
some time-tested tips on correcting a slice.

Although there are countless issues that can lead to
slicing the ball, some are more common than others. One of
the most frequent causes happens during address.

Most golfers prefer a square stance at address, where the
feet, hips, and shoulders are in line with the target. If
you move your left foot too far forward, the club face is
likely to open at impact and the ball will fly to the
right. The left foot should be directly under the left
shoulder.

The same holds true for the shoulders and hips. If they
are not square, the ball will not fly straight and true.

The next step is correcting the grip. Many newer players
grasp the club too tightly, which can cause the club head
to open as it strikes the ball. Again, this will make the
ball fly to the right. If the grip is too loose, the head
will wobble at impact and that, too, can lead to slicing
or hooking.

Along with tightness, your grip on the club should be
neutral. Check your grip by looking down at it. You should
be able to see two or three of your left-hand knuckles. If
you cannot see any knuckles at all, this is a sign of an
improper grip. As your hands come back into the hitting
zone, they will rotate to a neutral position, causing the
face to open.

Rotate your hands-not the club, just your hands-until you
see a couple of knuckles. Try hitting a few balls using
this new grip. Keep in mind that minor adjustments to your
grip can go a long way. Keep working at it until you
discover the right position for you. Once you have it,
remember it!

When correcting a slice, swing tempo is important. Many
golfers have a tendency to try to use their arms as their
power source to get some extra yards, but this almost
never works. Once they get to the top of their backswing,
they allow their hands to take over and lead the
downswing. As the hands come down, with everything else
following, the club face will almost undoubtedly open.

From start to finish, your swing should be smooth and
relaxed. Avoid the temptation to jerk the club once you
get to the top of your backswing. Let your hips start the
downswing and everything else will follow.

Another useful tip to correct your slice is to look at
your divot. If your divot is pointing too far to the
right, this may be your problem. Again, check your posture
at address and make sure your feet, hips, and shoulders
are in line with the target.

Above all, correcting a slice is a matter of finding the
one or two things you are doing wrong and fixing them.
This, of course, takes time and patience. If you work
through the possible causes, you will eventually find the
solution, and your enjoyment of the game will soar to new
levels.