Golf is arguably one of the most frustrating sports known to man. The idea of driving a tiny ball hundreds of yards through trees, water, and sand into a cup is almost comical. Now, pretend you have the ability to always hit the ball straight. Then you’re in good shape. As long as you know how far each of your irons will carry the ball then you can choose the right club for any given distance from the green. That’s the perfect scenario, hitting the ball straight each shot. We all know this is almost impossible, for some of us are cursed with the slice.
The slice is one of the golfer’s worst fears. Unwelcome slices can ruin a hole potentially destroying a round. So how do you fix a slice? There is no easy answer to this question as there are many factors that can trigger a slice. First, the most effective and simple way to fix a slice is by mentally telling yourself “I won’t slice.” Sometimes a self reminder without focusing on stance, swing, or club speed is enough to keep your ball on the fairway and inbounds. If that doesn’t work, then consider your stance.
The typical golf stance is feet shoulder width apart and shoulders pointed at your target. This is known as squaring your stance. The ball should be placed between your feet when hitting irons and closer to your left foot, if you’re using a set of right handed clubs, when hitting a driver. However, you should adjust your stance and ball placement to whatever works best for you. If stance isn’t your problem, it could be your swing.
Your swing can be broken down into two parts, Grip and swing direction. When gripping a club, put your left hand around the grip with your thumb pointing down the shaft. Place your right hand over your left hand so the palm of your right hand covers your thumb. Some people choose to cross their left hand index finger with their right hand pinky. Again, make small adjustments to what is comfortable and works for you. Once your grip is squared away, consider your swing direction. Visualize how the club and club face should move through the air. As you swing down towards the ball, you want your club be moving on the same plane before and after you make contact with the ball. This means once you hit the ball, don’t let the club stray left or right.
The most common reason people slice the ball is from leaving the club face open. To visualize this, make sure face of the club makes contact with the ball square on. Not open or closed. An open club face slices the ball (ball goes right). A closed club face hooks the ball (ball goes left). Take a slow practice swing before you hit the ball. Watch the club face to see if you’re leaving it open or closed. Then adjust accordingly.
A final way to prevent slicing the ball, as well as increase control and accuracy, is by pausing at the top of your swing. Now, I’m not telling you to stop, but mentally freeze at the top of your stance for a split second to make sure your body is square, then swing through. It’s incredible how much this simple step helps not only with slice prevention, but increases accuracy and distance.
Well there you have it, spend some time at the range following these steps to prevent that slice. Once you are “slice free” you’ll shoot lower scores and have more confidence in your game. Say hello to the Eagle, Birdie, and Par while waving goodbye to the Bogie!
If you need more help fixing that slice, go here!
