The golf swing has many parts, and performing any one incorrectly can create a stroke that causes you to slice, hook, top or otherwise mis-hit the ball. Many swing errors are the result of only one improper factor, such as improper ball placement or beginning the swing with the wrong movement. A simple tip or instructions from a friend or pro can help you straighten out your swing, add more distance and take strokes off your score.
Step 1
Tee your ball higher on drives. Many players try to hit the ball too hard on the drive, resulting in an upward body movement that can leave you standing on your toes, topping the ball. Teeing the ball higher will not only help you stay under the ball, it will help you decrease your slice, according to top golf instructor David Ledbetter.
Step 2
Move your club back by starting with the shoulder turn. Your shoulders should push your arms backward--don't use your arms to pull your shoulders backward. Taking your club back this way creates a more natural movement, helps create more upper body rotation, and keeps your body in better alignment for the forward swing.
Step 3
Start your forward swing by opening your hips. Just as your shoulders pushed your arms back during the backswing, your shoulders should pull your arms during the forward swing, not vice versa. Opening up with your hips drives your trailing shoulder forward naturally, creating the pull-through motion that creates more power, according to Dr. Ben Kibler of the Lexington Clinic Sports Medicine Center.
Step 4
Keep your wrists firm during pitches, chips and putts. The wrist snap is very important during long, full swings because it helps you get the club face in proper alignment with the ball at impact and decelerates the club properly after contact. Snapping or flicking the wrist on shorter swings may cause you to lose control, resulting in a hook or slice.
Step 5
Use a putting stroke when you pitch. The club you choose for chipping should have enough loft to pop the ball up without you having to swing down on the ball or flick your wrists. This allows you to use a straight swing path toward the hole. Since you chip from a short distance, you'll need a shorter swing, and the putting motion works well.
Step 6
Follow through on your putts. One of the biggest problems with the putt is that you are often so close to the hole, you may feel nervous about hitting too hard. This may cause you to stop the club at contact, resulting in a loss of control and distance. Shorten your backswing to give you confidence to hit through your putt. An equal length backswing and forward swing will help you create the right stroke.
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