For most amateur golfers, the shot that causes them the most problems is the golf slice. In fact the problem is so common, whole books have been written about ways you can try to correct the fault.
The golf slice is where the ball moves and bends in the air from left-to right .This is caused by a combination of having an open clubface and an outside to inside swing path. The incorrect swing puts side spin on the ball, causing the ball to cut violently to the side. This leads to a loss of control of the shot, as well as sometimes a loss of control of your temper on the course, as you become frustrated at the inability to keep your shot straight.
So how can you fix it?
Well, as mentioned before the out- to- in swing plays a large part in producing the slice. This fault is normally caused by standing with an open position as you address the ball. To try and correct the slice, some golfers compensate by aiming their body
well to the left of the intended target. They do this in the hope that the ball will slice and end up in the position they want it to. Unfortunately this stance is the ideal one to actually hit the ball from left to right. This means instead of correcting the problem, you are actually adding to it and may well end up causing yourself even more difficulty and embarrassment on the course.
To get rid off the golf slice, you’ll need to start by ensuring you start your swing in the right position. You should set up by having your feet, hips and shoulders square to the line of your target. If during the downswing your club gets outside the target line, then you’re more likely than not going to slice the ball. Poor alignment is one of the main reasons for the slice, but it can be corrected.
If you are unsure if you are in the right starting position, then here’s a tip you can use:
Firstly place a club on the ground directly in line with the target. Take another club and place it parallel left of the target. Align the face of your club with the target, with your feet and shoulders parallel left. This may seem awkward and you may feel you are aiming to the right, but you can use the clubs placed on the ground as a visual aid to be confident you are in the correct position. You should position the ball you are going to strike, just inside your left heel. Take a light grip on your club, allowing the right elbow to relax, while keeping it close to your side. Still keeping your elbow relaxed and close to your side, start your backswing and keep the club low and to the inside. On your downswing concentrate on keeping the elbow close to your body and let the club head swing to a position of 1 o’clock. If you practice this routine regularly, you should see an improvement in your swing, and a reduction in your slice.
Another tip for keeping the golf club on the correct downswing path, is to visualise another ball positioned around three to four inches in front of your actual ball. As you start your downswing, as well as aiming to hit the actual ball, continue to keep the club moving forward towards the imaginary ball. If you do this you will produce a downswing that will be on an in-to-out path, and so preventing the dreaded golf slice.
Joseph Tierney is a golfer and college student from Florida. You can find out more about improving your golf swing at Golf Swing Tips