Re: air time

Hi Tariffman,

I don't know that the threads on driver/slicing are contradictory. I believe most of the info and discussions presented by the members are quite consistent and sound. There may be some off the wall ideas, but you have to filter those out.

You have to understand what causes slicing, and which of the causes is your particular problem.

As you know, slicing is caused by sidespin (a clockwise spin in the case of a right handed swing) imparted on the ball. Usually the type of swing which is the main cause of slicing is an out to in path of the clubhead with an open clubface. This could be due to an over the top swing, also if the spine angle is raised so the face opens up through impact.

So, you have to find your particular cause, and do the drills and/or work diligently at eliminating the swing faults.

It is interesting that you aim your body open to the target line to compensate. That is what an accomplished golfer would do to hit intentional fades and slices, except he would swing along his opened body line (with the clubface aimed at the target. You are actually encouraging a slice, and will get one, as you know as you allow for it.

Here's a drill at the range which will be illuminating, and will make you think about what your swing should be like. Once this gets into your head, you will be able to progress with other ways to correct your faults.

Aim your clubface at the target, but close your stance radically by putting your right foot "in line" with your left foot, perpendicular to the target line. Your back will feel like it is facing the target. Tee to ball up until you get used to the swing. Now, just take a normal backswing and hit the ball. The ball will go straight and it will be a solid strike. This encourages an inside to out swing as you can imagine and also gets you to properly rotate your arms through the ball. If you close the face, you will have the ball drawing/hooking. Funny enough, you can actually play with that swing and you will play well, other than the fact you will scare the daylights out of your buddies who are standing to the right of you. This could be the start of another standing joke The thing is though, you will never hit it to the right!

I thought my explanation for the drill may be confusing, so I found this video in the meantime.



I hope you get something out of this,

Ted