Few golfers make it far into their development before suffering a bout of slices or hooks. These are shots that go off-center due to a strong side-spin placed on the ball as a result of hitting across the back of the ball instead of driving squarely through the ball. A slice occurs when the ball flies to the side opposite of where you stand in relation to the ball. Many books and golf swing courses have been devoted to the art of correcting your slice, but there are some simple tricks you can do to alleviate your slicing woes on your own.
Step 1
Adjust your backswing to become more consistent in how your club head hits the ball. Place your driver shaft across your shoulders on your chest with the club head to your right. Assume your swinging stance and wind up into your backswing, turning your hips and shoulders. Turn until the shaft is pointed at the ground about a foot in front of the ball. If you normally swing the club so that the line on your shoulders is pointing directly at the ball, this is probably the source of your slice. Practice making the proper turning motion and then applying that motion to your swing with club in hand.
Step 2
Force a wider grip on the club using golf tees. Place two tees in the joint between your index finger and thumb. Grip the club as you normally do. This wider grip will provide more balance on the club as you swing it around to hit the ball, and you'll be more likely to hit the ball square.
Step 3
Practice shifting your weight forward and turning with your hips as you swing into the ball. Many slices occur when the golfer stays on his back leg rather than moving forward slightly. This brings the club around at a curbed angle compared to how it should, and it clips the ball instead of hitting it full-on, resulting in side-spin. Practice your slow-motion mechanics with an emphasis on hip rotation and weight shifting, practicing the club's follow-through staying on a straight line toward the hole, with the face of the club square with the ball's intended direction.
Step 4
Practice this adjusted motion at short distances first, where your speed is low and form takes precedence over power. As you correct your slice, gradually aim for greater distances, making sure to keep your swing in check and under control. Only add the extra force of your drive swing once you have repeatedly demonstrated the proper mechanics--your body will need to have these mechanics stored in its muscle memory in order for the mechanics to override brute force when you tee off.
Things You'll Need
- Golf ball
- Golf swing
- Golf tees
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