How To Fix A Push Slice

How to Fix a Push Slice: A Golfer's Guide to Straight Shots

Are you tired of your golf balls curving frustratingly to the right (for a right-handed golfer)? A push slice is a common problem that plagues many golfers, but it's definitely fixable. This comprehensive guide will break down the mechanics behind a push slice and offer practical solutions to help you hit straighter shots. We'll cover everything from grip and stance to swing path and follow-through, ensuring you have the tools to conquer this golfing nemesis.

Understanding the Push Slice

Before we dive into the fixes, let's understand why a push slice happens. It's a combination of two primary issues:

• Outside-In Swing Path: The clubhead swings from outside the target line to inside the target line. This is the primary culprit behind the slice. Imagine your swing path as a line – with a push slice, this line is heading away from your target before coming back across.
• Weak Grip: A grip that's too weak (where your hands are rotated too much to the left on the club) exacerbates the outside-in swing path and promotes a slice.

Key Techniques to Eliminate Your Push Slice

Here's a step-by-step guide to diagnose and correct your push slice:

1. Grip It Right

A strong grip is crucial. Experiment with different grips (neutral, strong) to find one that feels comfortable and promotes a square clubface at impact. A slightly stronger grip can help counteract the tendency to swing out-to-in. Focus on feeling the clubhead more in your left hand (for right-handed golfers).

2. Stance and Alignment

Ensure your feet are aligned properly to your target. A slightly closed stance (feet slightly angled to the left of the target) can help promote an in-to-out swing path, countering the outside-in movement causing your slice. Practice your alignment consistently.

3. Swing Path Correction

This is where the real work is done. Focus on swinging the club from inside the target line to outside the target line. Imagine swinging along a path that starts from the inside and finishes outside the target. This change will counteract the outside-in swing, the root cause of your slice.

4. Clubface Control

Maintaining square clubface throughout the swing is paramount. At impact, your clubface should be pointing directly at your target. Practice drills to improve your feel for clubface alignment.

5. Practice Drills

Consistent practice is essential for improvement. Here are some drills you can use:

• Toe Drill: Place a tee slightly behind the ball. Practice swinging, ensuring your clubhead passes over the tee at impact. This helps to promote an in-to-out swing path.
• Alignment Sticks: Place alignment sticks on the ground to check your stance, swing path, and target line. This will give you immediate visual feedback.
• Impact Bag Drills: Hitting shots into an impact bag can help you feel the correct impact position and develop a consistent swing path.

Advanced Techniques

If the basics haven't completely solved your push slice, consider these more advanced strategies:

• Professional Lesson: A qualified golf instructor can provide personalized feedback and guidance based on your specific swing flaws. They can often identify subtle issues you might be missing.
• Video Analysis: Recording your swing and analyzing it can help you pinpoint areas for improvement, focusing on subtle details that you might not notice during practice.

Conclusion

Fixing a push slice requires patience and dedication. By focusing on these key areas – grip, stance, swing path, and clubface – and practicing consistently, you can significantly improve your accuracy and enjoy straighter, more satisfying shots on the course. Remember, consistency is key. Good luck!