by JC Campbell

Created on: April 12, 2011

It is an established fact that most recreational golfers slice the ball, especially when playing driver from the tee. There are a variety of reasons why this happens but the solution to the problem is often simple. A slice can be caused by an open setup at address, a poor grip on the golf club or the wrong ball position. So how can you fix a slice in your golf game?

Check Your Grip

How you grip the golf club will determine the type of ball flight that becomes part of your game. Golfers who tend to slice the ball will most likely have what is referred to as a "weak" grip. This is where the left hand (for a right-handed player) is turned too far to the left on the club so that when the golfer looks down at address, cannot see any knuckles on the left hand. The fix is to turn the left hand slightly to the right so that you can see at least one, maybe two knuckles at address. This has the effect of making the grip "strong" and will bring the clubhead back to the ball more squarely. You may even find that you now tend to draw the ball which will give greater accuracy and distance.

Check Alignment

How you set up to the ball at address has a powerful effect on your ball flight. An open stance is one that will encourage a slice or fade as it brings the club back to the ball from the outside. The key is to make sure that your stance is at least square to the target line or possibly even slightly closed. This adjustment will allow you to take the club back on the proper plane and return the club to the ball on an inside path. A common problem for some golfers is that they will square their feet to the target line at address but keep their shoulders open without realising it. This tendency can be avoided through practice on the range by simply placing your club across your shoulders to see where it points before you strike the ball.

Swing Easy

Even with the proper grip and correct alignment, many player will still slice the ball by swinging too hard at the ball. The effect this often has is to bring the shoulder down too early and causes the club face to cut across the ball. Swinging easy will give you time to keep the club on plane and allow you to hit the ball from the inside. A golf swing that is in control will always be more effective than an uncontrolled slash in an effort to gain more distance.

If you are plagued with a slice in your golf game, take time on the practice range to work on your grip, alignment and ball position, experimenting until you find the setup that is right for you. Watch your ball flight as you play each shot and adjust as necessary. As you do so, make sure to swing the club in a controlled way to ensure greater distance and accuracy. Fixing a slice is easier than you think.

Learn more about this author, JC Campbell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.