Drives start out to the right and curve farther to the right.

20 Most common shot problems

Lesson 6 of 20

Diagnosis: Drives start out to the right and curve farther to the right. Shorter irons also push to the right with little or no curve. Contact with iron shots tends to be either fat or thin.

 

Explanation:  This is a problem that is more prevalent among better players. The reason is they often have the misconception of the swing path being from in to out – the club moving right of the target at impact. In an attempt to swing into the ball from the inside the player leaves the left hip in the way. Rather than the hips clearing the left leg stiffens which doesn’t allow the club head to return on line at impact. 

     As mentioned in previous lessons the correct path is from inside to along the target line and then back to the inside. With an in to out path the shot starts right because the club is moving in that direction at impact. The blocking of the left leg doesn’t allow the arms to square the clubface at impact. Hence the clubface is open and shots curve to the right as well

     An in to out swing path also creates a very shallow angle of approach where the club head reaches the bottom of its arc very early. The club may contact the ground behind the ball (fat shots) or contact the ball after the club has begun moving upward (thin shots). 

Adding to the problem is the fact that players who visualize an in to out swing path often play the ball too far back (to the right) in their stance. This rearward positioning causes the club to contact the ball too early while the clubface is still open and moving right of the target line.  

  

Correction:     Realize the correct swing path is from inside to along the target line and then back to the inside rather than inside to outside. Move the ball farther forward (to the left) in your stance and be conscious of clearing the left hip early in the downswing. This allows the club to make contact with the ball while it is traveling along the target line. Clearing the left hip also helps return the clubface square at impact. It is important to swing the club down with the arms and hands as the hips clear. You’ll soon experience straighter and more solid golf shots. 

To schedule an appointment with Steve call Golf Rx at (615) 288-4539