The most common swing killer, destroyed step-by-step

Ever stood on the tee, heart pounding, as you watch yet another ball curve violently to the right, disappearing into the trees or splashing into a watery grave? You’re not alone. The dreaded slice is golf’s most notorious swing flaw, a source of frustration for weekend warriors and seasoned players alike. But what if you could eliminate it in just one range session?

Today, we’re diving deep into the mechanics of the slice, unpacking its causes, and delivering a practical, battle-tested plan to help you straighten your shots and reclaim your confidence on the course.

• Understanding the Slice
• Step 1: Grip and Setup
• Step 2: Correcting Your Swing Path
• Step 3: The Impact Fix
• Step 4: Drills and Practice

Understanding the Slice

The slice – a shot that starts to the left of the target for a right-handed golfer and then swerves dramatically to the right – is often caused by an open clubface and an outside-to-inside swing path. But why does this happen? Several factors can contribute, from improper grip to poor alignment, or even physical limitations.

Why has the slice plagued so many great players throughout history?

Even legends like Jack Nicklaus and Ben Hogan had to battle their own slicing tendencies early in their careers. Their struggles and subsequent adjustments underscore the importance of technique and adaptability in golf.

Step 1: Grip and Setup

The journey to a slice-free game begins with the grip. Your grip is your only connection to the club, and it influences how the clubface is positioned at impact. For many, a weak grip—where the hands are too far underneath the club—encourages the clubface to open.

To combat this, try strengthening your grip slightly by turning both hands to the right on the club handle. This doesn’t mean gripping harder, but rather adjusting the position of your hands so that you can see more knuckles on your left hand when you look down.

Alignment is equally crucial. Ensure your shoulders, hips, and feet are parallel to the target line. Misalignment can promote compensations in the swing that lead to a slice.

Step 2: Correcting Your Swing Path

An outside-to-inside swing path is a major culprit in creating a slice. This path sends the ball left initially, with the open clubface adding rightward spin. To correct this, focus on swinging more from the inside-out.

A useful drill is the “Alignment Stick Drill.” Place two alignment sticks on the ground forming a narrow “V” shape that points slightly right of your target. Practice swinging through this gate, which encourages a more in-to-out path.

Step 3: The Impact Fix

Impact dynamics are critical. With a slice, the clubface is open relative to the swing path at impact. To fix this, you need to feel the clubface closing more effectively through the hitting zone.

Try the “Towel Drill”: Place a towel directly behind your ball on the range. Strive to avoid hitting the towel on your downswing, which encourages a shallower approach and helps close the clubface.

Step 4: Drills and Practice

Practice makes perfect, and the right drills can accelerate your progress. Besides the drills mentioned, the “Pump Drill” is excellent for syncing your upper and lower body. Swing to the top, then “pump” your arms downward twice before striking the ball. This promotes a better downswing sequence and timing.

Remember, changing a swing pattern takes patience and persistence. Spend your range session focused on these adjustments, and don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks.

The Legacy of the Slice

While frustrating, the slice is not insurmountable. Legends of the game have overcome it, and so can you. With understanding, practice, and the right adjustments, your next round could see those wild right-handers replaced with powerful, piercing drives.

For more insights and tips on improving your golf game, visit PGA Tour.

Armed with these strategies, head to the range with a plan. Today could be the day you finally say goodbye to your slice, transforming your game forever.