If you struggle with slicing the ball in golf, a top teacher recommends trying an alignment stick drill to help improve your ball-striking. Slicing occurs when the clubface is open at impact, causing the ball to veer off to the right (for a right-handed player). One common reason for slicing is swinging over-the-top, where the club comes across the ball at impact, creating left-to-right spin. To fix this issue and cure chronic slicing, it is important to swing from inside-to-out rather than outside-to-in, which requires proper sequencing starting from the ground up.
Using an alignment stick drill can help you improve your swing path and stop slicing the ball. Start by having an alignment stick placed across your elbows parallel to the ground. Swing to the top, stop, and have someone hold the stick in place. Then, make your downswing while focusing on starting with your lower body and swinging the arms from the inside. If the stick drops parallel to the ground or with the back end striking the turf first, you are on the right path. If the front end strikes the ground first, restart the drill.
One key tip to help with slicing is to bump your left hip forward and over your lead ankle during your backswing. Check that the alignment stick is still parallel to the ground and across your elbows. This will help you get the feel for the right club path and improve your swing to prevent slicing. Practicing this drill consistently can help you develop a more consistent and accurate golf swing, reducing the frequency of slicing the ball.
By using an alignment stick drill, you can make significant improvements to your swing and fix the over-the-top tendencies that lead to slicing the ball. This drill emphasizes proper sequencing starting from the ground up and swinging from inside-to-out rather than outside-to-in. By practicing this drill regularly and focusing on the key elements of the swing, you can make lasting improvements to your ball-striking and reduce the frustration of chronic slicing.
To effectively implement the alignment stick drill, it is important to have someone help you set up and hold the stick in place during your swing. This will ensure that you are maintaining the correct alignment and working on the proper club path to prevent slicing. By receiving feedback and guidance from a friend or golf teacher, you can make adjustments to your swing and improve your overall ball-striking.
Improving your swing path and sequencing is crucial for reducing slicing and hitting more accurate shots on the golf course. By practicing the alignment stick drill and focusing on starting your downswing with your lower body, you can develop a more efficient and effective swing that eliminates over-the-top tendencies. With dedication and consistency in practicing this drill, you can make significant progress in improving your swing and reducing the frustration of chronic slicing.
