Correct Swing Plane Cures Slice
Every golfer dreads the 5-letter “s” word resulting from a shot it away from you. That’s right, we’re talking about the slice. This happens for various reasons and is a continuous struggle until properly addressed. This week, we will look at the cause and effect and how to fix this potentially fatal flaw by getting on the correct swing plane.
Cause and Effect
One reason someone slices the ball is from an over-the-top downswing. Taking the club too far inside on the takeaway is what causes this. By taking the club too far inside, it has to be redirected outside in the downswing to make contact with the ball. The clubface is usually open at impact from this position as well. The result is a slice, where the ball fades to the right for a right-handed player, or to the left for a left-handed player.
Fix: Get On The Right Swing Plane
Getting on the correct swing plane is the key to solving this problem. To practice, start by taking the club on a more outside path. Concentrate on keeping the clubhead outside of your hands in the takeaway. By doing so, it forces you to drop the clubhead down on a more inside path. It feels weird at first because you are doing the opposite of what you are used to.
Another way to get on the correct swing plane is to imagine you are on a baseball field at home plate. Your goal is to hit a golf ball into the outfield. After feeling like your takeaway is good, picture hitting the ball to the opposite field. This helps you come into the ball on the correct swing plane. At first, you will likely start pushing the ball, but the shots will be going straight. After feeling comfortable swinging toward right field, focus on hip rotation. Clearing your hips also helps hit the ball straighter.
Start small with both of these drills. Practice without a golf ball at first until you get comfortable with the motions. As you progress, start hitting a ball at 50%. Gradually work your way into a full swing and watch your ball flight improve!
Emmett Brantly
Emmett Brantly has been a Class “A” member of the PGA of America since 2003. He graduated from Campbell University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Golf Management. He has worked in Public, Semi-Private, Private, and Resort golf facilities in Raleigh and Pinehurst North Carolina. He has also worked in various retail settings, as well as holding positions of PGA Teaching Professional at various academies including the Pinehurst Golf Academy. Emmett has a strong passion for growing the game of golf by displaying his extensive knowledge in club-fitting, teaching, fitness, and product knowledge.