An Excellent Drill to Fix the Slice!!

One of the most common problems I see with beginner and intermediate golfers is the slice. While there are a number of reasons why a slice can occur, one of the biggest causes is an over-the-top downswing. This is when the club travels too far from outside the target line on the way down, producing pull shots, slices and inconsistent ball striking.

One of the best drills I use to help golfers correct this movement is the alignment stick drill. To set it up, place an alignment stick on roughly a 45-degree angle behind the golf ball. Make sure the stick is positioned far enough away that you won't hit it during your backswing, but close enough that it gives you a clear visual guide for the correct swing path.

For this drill, use a pitching wedge, 9 iron or 8 iron and simply make slow half swings. As you swing back, allow the club to travel just underneath the alignment stick. Then, on the downswing, return the club underneath the stick again. The goal isn't to hit the ball hard, but to train your body to swing on a much better path.

As you continue practicing this drill, you'll begin to eliminate the over-the-top movement that causes so many pull shots and slices. Once this improved swing path becomes more natural, you'll not only see the ball start flying straighter, but you'll also notice much more solid and consistent contact.

If you're struggling with a slice and would like some professional guidance, feel free to contact David Waters Golf Coaching at the Emerald Lakes Golf Coaching Centre. I'd be happy to help you improve your swing and get you hitting the ball straighter.