Dr Golf's Swing Surgery

Anti Slice Clubs

SLICING  

When the ball loses it's forward momentum and veers sharply to the right toward the end of it's flight, this is known as a slice (less sharply is referred to as a fade). 




The only way a ball can slice is if the clubface position at impact is in the open position.

 

First fix: Slow motion swinging.

 

The drill illustrated on the left is an excellent way to learn how to release the clubhead in the square position.

Pull the club down in slow motion to the impact point 2 times in a row. Each time concentrating on returning the clubhead square. On the third swing, use the same action but swing at normal speed and allow the club to follow through.

Repeated use of this drill will improve the player's appreciation of release. Start by hitting short shots whilst keeping the sensation of the drill in mind. Gradually increase the distance and length of club until results are satisfactory.

Second Fix: Strengthen the grip and loosen the pressure

Golf coaches refer to the left hand knuckle position in terms of weak or strong. A strong grip is one where at least three knuckles can be seen by the player during the address position. Standard grip is around two knuckles and a weak grip would be one knuckle. In the illustration to the left the whole of the back of the glove can be seen this is known as a 4 knuckle grip.

Grip pressure is also a key element in the release process. If the pressure is too tight at impact then the tendency will be to impede the clubhead from returning to the square position causing a block or slice. Try various shots with different grip pressures (don't let the club slip at any point because this could be dangerous) and grip positions.

Third fix: Close the clubhead during the backswing.

The easiest way to close the clubface during the backswing is to pre-set the blade at address. Simply "toe" (have the club point to the left of target) the club in at address. If either this does not work or the position is uncomfortable (mentally or physically), then the player must learn to manipulate the clubhead during the swing. It may prove beneficial to the player to move the clubface into the closed position at the top of the backswing. The arched wrist position below left shows the clubface in a closed position and may well prove to be a better preference than either the square, middle position or the open cupped wrist illustrated on the right.

 

Fourth Fix: Rotate the left forearm

Another way to encourage the release is by rotating the left forearm prior to impact. without a club, assume the address position. With the right hand grasp the forearm of the left (see below) Swing to the top of the backswing rotating the arm the open (top of the backswing) and then to the closed position at the swing completion. This drill whilst promoting rotation (which can lead to inconsistency) can be the best way for some players to learn release.

Fifth Fix: Stop clubhead torque opening the clubface.

Striking the ball from the heel of the club will cause the clubhead to twist around the shaft thus opening the clubface and causing the ball to slice.Faults & Fixes and work through the suggestions.

Sixth Fix: Check out the latest equipment.

The constant requirement for slice eradication has been well noted by manufacturers. Modern clubs are designed with directional features in mind some of which may prove to be successful.

Doctor Golfs tips for anti slice clubs are;

a) Offset heads. 

b) More flexible shafts. 

c) Lower kickpoint in the shafts. 

d) Thinner grips. 

The above features are just some design styles that could offer help.  

 

Talk to your local pro or clubmaker or call the Golf Factory on 01772 252523 for further advice. 

 

 

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