Golf Instruction: Fixing Slice

Golf Instruction: Fixing Slice
Photo Credit the golf swing pose - one of a series of instructional illustrat image by Wingnut Designs from Fotolia.com

Golf is a game that addicts many players. It doesn't take much for many players to get hooked on the sport. Usually, it's one or two good shots that keep a golfer coming back for more. Becoming a consistent golfer is the goal of many, but it is difficult. One of the most common problems is the slice. In order to get rid of that problem and to hit the ball consistently, a golfer must have the correct stance, grip, swing and follow-through.

Step 1

Address the ball properly before you hit it. When golfers slice the ball, they often have an incorrect stance as they get ready to hit. Make sure your left shoulder--for a right-handed golfer--is facing the hole or the part of the fairway you are intending to hit the ball. Your left foot should be underneath your left shoulder and your feet should be a little bit wider than shoulder-width apart. Play the ball about 2 inches closer to your front foot than your back foot.

Step 2

Grip the club firmly. It's important not to grip the club too tightly or too loosely. When it comes to slicing the ball, a loose grip is often the cause. If you are not holding the club firmly enough, the club will move and wobble upon impact with the ball. When the club head hits the ball, it will angle off to the right and the ball will shoot off to the right into the rough or out of bounds.

Step 3

Swing the club smoothly and don't rush your shot. To hit the ball for distance and with accuracy, your hands and hips must work together. Rushing your hands through the ball will send your swing out of alignment and you will put a sidespin on the ball. That sidespin will cause the ball to veer off course to the right after it appears to be going straight through the first part of its journey. That is a classic slice. Slow your hips and hands to hit the ball straight and avoid the slice.

Step 4

Finish your swing with a full follow-through. High-handicap golfers and new golfers love to see their ball fly through the air and land in the fairway. They love it so much that they often stop their swing and fail to finish. This will cause the ball to go off course and slice to the right. Your playing partners will admire your shot for you. Finish your swing by making sure your club ends up at shoulder level. This will help you fix your slice.

References

Article reviewed by I.P. Last updated on: Jul 15, 2010

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