1. Golf Swing Path Basics
The definition of the golf swing path is exactly as you would expect, it is the path you use when you swing the golf club. The swing path is a large determinant of the trajectory of the golf shot. If you have an inside to straight swing path that squarely strikes the golf ball, it will travel straight. A path the moves from the outside to the inside will most likely result in a slice. Conversely, with an inside to outside swing path you get a hook on the golf shot.
2. Gauging Your Swing Path
In order to understand the basics of your golf shot you need to gauge the type of golf swing path you currently possess. To do this you need to look at the divots to determine club position at impact and then watch the trajectory of your shot. If you are hitting too many slices, you may have an outside to inside path. In addition, it may help to videotape your shot to accurately determine what swing path your take on given shot.
3. Clubface Position
Clubface position works in concert with the swing path to alter the direction of the golf shot. The swing path determines the direction of the golf ball at impact but the position of the clubface also can have a major impact of the balls flight after impact. The three types of clubface positions are open, closed and square. You measure all these positions relative to the target line you are trying to hit the golf ball. If you strike the ball with a square clubface on an inside to straight swing path the ball will travel straight. However, the same swing path with a closed clubface can cause the golf ball to slice.
4. The Shot Dictates the Path
The shot will dictate the swing path. Sometimes there will be shots that call for a slice or times where you want to hit a hook. A majority of the time a straight shot is best but course conditions, pin placement or course design may make an alternate swing path the best option.
5. No Right Answer
Understand that there is no absolutely correct swing path in golf. Golf is all about personal preference, physical build and results. If you have short arms and long legs, this will dictate that you have a shallow swing path. Whatever the swing path you chose, if the golf ball goes in the direction of the intended target then it is the correct path.
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