One of the most frustrating issues that golfers face is hitting a slice. This common miss, often found among high handicappers, not only veers off line but also robs you of power. When you hit a slice, your clubhead swipes across the ball with a glancing blow, resulting in a weak strike. To address this problem and improve your game, you need to make adjustments to your swing. GOLF Top 100 Teacher Kellie Stenzel provides three solutions to help you conquer your slice.
The first step in fixing your slice is to check your grip. One common reason for slicing the ball is a faulty grip. Ensure that you are gripping the club correctly by turning your lead hand enough to see the knuckles on the back of that hand. A thumb straight down position can produce an open clubface, leading to a slice. By making small changes to how you hold the club, you can correct your slice without significant alterations to your swing.
Next, evaluate your backswing. The way you take the club to the top of your backswing can also contribute to slicing the ball. Keeping your lead arm close to your chest allows your shoulders to turn properly, helping the club to be delivered on the correct path to impact. By focusing on maintaining a connected backswing, you can improve your ball-striking and reduce the likelihood of hitting a slice.
Another key factor in eliminating a slice is staying relaxed during your swing. Excess tension can lead to a variety of swing faults, including a slice. To alleviate tension, Stenzel recommends practicing the “split-hand drill.” Hold your driver with your hands split, with your trail hand positioned four to five inches below your lead hand. This drill helps your elbows to fold and promotes a relaxed swing, enabling the clubface to stay square through impact.
By incorporating these three adjustments into your game – addressing your grip, improving your backswing, and staying relaxed – you can effectively rid yourself of the frustrating slice that plagues many golfers. With practice and dedication to implementing these changes, you can start hitting the ball straighter and more consistently, improving your overall golf game.
Zephyr Melton, an assistant editor for GOLF.com, emphasizes the significance of overcoming the slice in golf. As an experienced golf journalist, Melton understands the challenges that golfers face when dealing with swing issues such as slicing. By following the advice of top teaching professionals like Kellie Stenzel, golfers can make meaningful improvements to their game and enjoy the benefits of hitting straighter shots.
Mastering the art of fixing a slice is essential for any golfer looking to enhance their performance on the course. The slice not only affects the direction of the ball but also diminishes the power and distance of your shots. By focusing on fundamental aspects of the swing, such as grip, backswing, and relaxation, you can transform your game and achieve more consistent results. With the right guidance and practice, you can conquer the slice and elevate your golfing experience.
