Three ways to combat that slice

When I am out conducting lessons, the most common problem that I come across is the slice.

The slice is by far the most common shape of ball flight that club players produce and it can be for a number of reasons. The result however is the same.

Before I go on, let's make sure that we know what a slice is; one mistake that a lot of people make when they read a tuition article is that they immediately go out and try the tips even if the problem outlined does not relate to their game.

A slice (for a right handed player) is a ball flight produced by an out to in swing (cutting across the ball) with an open clubface.

This results in the ball starting slightly left of target and curling to the right, finishing right of the intended target.

It is a very destructive, and weak shot. The ball does not travel as far as it should and the result can really damage your scores.

As the clubs get longer the slice is more pronounced so it is more noticeable - the problem tends to occur with all of a player's clubs, but it is the driver that they really struggle with.

So how do we combat that slice? Below I have highlighted three ways that you can help to improve your ball flight.

1. Feet together

A habit many amateur golfers develop is the hips moving forward before the hands move forward.

This tends to create a slice because the clubface is left open at contact. Hit a lot of golf balls with your feet together (Pic 1). This will isolate the lower body a little, allowing your hands, arms and club to swing and release through the golf ball. If the hips get away from this posture, you will lose your balance.

2. Drop your foot back

Second, hit balls dropping the right foot back behind the left foot (Pic2). While doing this, swing to the right of your intended target.

This will shut your hips and allow your hands to get down in front of your body. This will force the club to release over, causing a right-to-left shape to the ball. This same drill, keeping both feet on the ground throughout the swing, will pronounce this effect.

3. One handed!!

Another drill is to hit balls with one hand (Pic3). The dominant hand will enhance the timing of the club with the lower body creating an in-to-out path.

This forces the club to release through the ball.

Good luck practicing!

Next week: Get set-up for success - the importance of custom fitting.

PRIZE QUIZ!

YOU could win a free Riffa Views golf shirt and cap by emailing Sue Addison at s.addison@theroyalgolfclub.com with your answer to this question: Where was the first US_PGA Championship held?

Last week's winner was Brian Davis.

The answer to last week's quiz - "At the edge of the teeing ground, in the rough.

A draw will be made from all the correct answers on Monday and the winner's name will be announced in this column next week. Normal GulfWeekly contest rules apply.

To ensure that golfers of all abilities are ready for the grand opening of the new Royal Golf Club in November, Chris is sharing his advice for the perfect tee off - make sure your first hit on Monty's fantastic new course is your proudest golfing memory! If you would like to practice Chris's tip as soon as possible, why not head down to the new public driving range at Bahrain Golf Club in Riffa? Alternatively, if you would like Chris to give you a one-on-one lesson, please contact him on 39797633 to make a reservation. He is available to conduct lessons at Bahrain Golf Club's driving range over the summer months until he is set up permanently at the Royal Golf Club's new academy in autumn.