The most common errant shot for the average golfer is slicing the ball.
Slicing is caused by an open club face at contact that creates side spin on the ball resulting it to curve from left to right (for a right-handed player) and right to left (for a left-handed player).
Slicing the ball may be useful on a few occasions, but keep in mind, you will loose considerable amount of distance and direction in the process.
There are several ways to correct a slice. Let’s examine the grip, then we will discuss a simple correction.
First, check the position of your target hand (the hand closest to the grip end) so the back of the hand faces the target. Second, check to see that your lower hand (right hand for a right-handed player) palm is facing the target. Your thumb and pointer finger should have limited pressure. Too much pressure or tension with the thumb and pointer finger (with the right hand) is a sure way to keep the club face open.
To square the club face, try this practice drill. Take your lower hand thumb and index finger off the grip and swing the club. Next, try this when hitting a ball. This practice drill helps to reduce the tension in your grip and arm, thus allowing the club to swing more freely producing a square face at impact.
This is just one of many practice tips to help keep from slicing. If you are still slicing after multiple attempts with this technique, schedule a lesson with Tami Bealert, PGA Director of Instruction.
