TWO QUICK SLICE SAVIOURS

For all golfers who feel stuck with their driver slice, there is a way forward – and it begins with a better understanding of the movement patterns that cause the shot. Here, we’ll look at two such patterns. Both relate to the start of the downswing, and both contribute directly to the across-the-line, out-to-in delivery which forces us to open the face and slice the ball. Adopt these solutions and you can take the sting out of that cursed curve.

PATTERN 1 The lead arm turns with your body

For many club golfers, that upper lead arm simply moves with the body rotation in one connected movement, remaining high on the chest. As you can see, this leads to a spinning-out movement that sends the arms and club way outside the ideal path and plane.

Solution Drag your lead arm down your chest

As your downswing begins to unwind, try to develop the feeling that your lead upper arm is dragging downward, against your chest. This will help you drop the club into a better delivery position and attack the ball on a more on-plane path.

PATTERN 2 Lead hip backs up

This movement pattern crops up when you ask your hands, arms and shoulders to apply all the force. It sees the golfer pulling down aggressively outside the trail hip, and forces the lower body and weight to shift back to support the move. This leads to a weak scythe across the ball; expect it to start left (right-handers) or straight before slicing viciously.

Solution Feel your lead hip move towards the target

Instead of pulling down with your arms, start the downswing by driving your lead hip forwards, towards the target. This creates a side bend in your body that helps you drop the club onto a more effective, inside attack path. It also ensures your lower body is leading the downswing sequence and getting your weight correctly forward.