Foolproof tips for a straight and accurate swing

A slice is one of the most frustrating yet common mistakes in golf. It affects both beginners and seasoned players, often ruining a round by sending the ball veering right (for right-handed golfers) or left (for left-handers). The good news? It’s fixable.

In this article, we will delve deep into the causes of the slice, professional techniques to correct it, and specific drills to help you achieve a straighter and more controlled swing. If you want to lower your handicap and master the course, read on and put these tips into practice.

What is a slice, and why does it happen?

A slice occurs when the ball develops a strong side spin due to an open clubface at impact. This problem typically stems from a combination of:

• An incorrect grip that prevents proper clubface control.
• Misalignment in posture that affects swing trajectory.
• A flawed swing, often too much “out-to-in” (commonly known as over-the-top).

The legendary Ben Hogan emphasised that a solid, repeatable swing is the key to avoiding mistakes like a slice. Understanding the fundamentals of ball striking is the first step in correcting this issue.

How to correct a slice?

Step 1: Adjust your grip for better control

Your grip is the only point of contact between you and the club. Any mistake here can cause the clubface to remain open at impact, leading to an unwanted slice.

How to hold the club correctly

• The “V” formed between the thumb and index finger of your left hand (for right-handed golfers) should point towards your right shoulder.
• Ensure you can see two or three knuckles on your left hand when looking down at the grip.
• Use a stronger grip (rotating your hands slightly to the right in a right-handed stance) to help close the clubface at impact.

A stronger grip provides better clubface control and reduces the likelihood of a slice. If your slice is severe, experiment with an interlocking grip or a strong grip to improve stability.

Step 2: Correct your posture and alignment

Many golfers who struggle with a slice have poor body alignment and an incorrect stance. The key lies in:

• Aligning your body with the target: Feet, hips, and shoulders should be parallel to the target line. Many players, without realising it, aim their feet too far left (for right-handed golfers), encouraging an out-to-in swing.
• Distributing your weight correctly: Keep more weight on the inside of your feet and avoid excessive shoulder tilt.
• Ball position in your stance: Don’t place the ball too far forward, as this can cause the clubface to remain open at impact.

A balanced stance is essential for achieving a consistent and powerful swing.

Step 3: Adjust your swing plane for a correct trajectory

An out-to-in swing path is the main culprit behind a slice. To fix this, you need to adjust your club path to be more inside-out (in-to-out).

Drills to fix swing path

Inclined tee drill

Place a tee in the ground at an angle to the right (for right-handers). Try hitting the ball without touching the tee. This will encourage an in-to-out swing.

Alignment rod drill

Lay an alignment stick along the target line and another slightly inside the path. Focus on swinging over the inside rod to promote an in-to-out motion.

Towel under the arm drill

Place a towel under your right armpit (for right-handed players) and take full swings without dropping it. This helps keep the body and arms synchronised.

Golfers who work on neutralising their swing path significantly reduce directional errors and improve shot accuracy.

Step 4: Control your body rotation

A slice can also be caused by incorrect body rotation. If your hands and arms do all the work without proper body movement, the clubface will remain open at impact.

How to improve rotation

• Start the downswing with your hips, not your arms.
• Fully rotate your shoulders in the backswing, ensuring your left shoulder (for right-handed players) points towards the ball.
• Maintain a stable posture and avoid excessive lateral movement.

The key to a repeatable and powerful swing is syncing body rotation with arm movement.

Step 5: Equipment adjustments to reduce a slice

Equipment also plays a fundamental role in fixing a slice. Here are some key recommendations:

• Adjust your driver loft: A driver with a higher loft (10.5° or more) reduces side spin and minimises the chance of a slice.
• Choose the right shaft: A shaft that’s too stiff can make it harder to square the clubface, promoting a slice. Opt for a shaft flex that matches your swing speed.
• Use low-spin golf balls: Some golf balls are designed to reduce lateral spin, helping to minimise the effects of a slice.

Master your swing and eliminate the slice today

A slice is a common issue, but with the right adjustments and consistent practice, you can correct it and hit straighter, more powerful shots. Focus on:

• A stronger and firmer grip.
• A stance aligned with your target.
• A more neutral swing path with controlled body rotation.
• Specific drills to improve club trajectory.
• The right equipment to minimise side spin.

Put these tips to the test at Club de Golf Costa Brava

Now that you know how to fix your slice, it’s time to take your game to the next level. At Club de Golf Costa Brava, we provide the ideal environment to perfect your swing, with a 27-hole course surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.Book your tee time today and experience the difference in every shot. See you on the green!