The “New” Ball Flight Laws
For countless years, I’ve assumed the cause of my driver slice was an open clubface. When the slice recently turned into a straight pull, I realized there was something else going on.
New research has modified some long held beliefs about ball flight. It is true that a slice is caused by an open clubface relative to the swing plane. However, the initial direction of the ball is caused predominantly by clubface angle relative to the target. The path the ball takes in the air is based on swing path.
What does this mean for slicers? If the ball starts left and comes back to the right, the ball was actually hit with a closed club face (relative to the target). If your ball starts toward the target, congratulations, your clubface was square to the target. Any movement thereafter is caused by the direction of your swing path. For further understanding of this, there is an excellent article here: http://thesandtrap.com/playing_tips/ball_flight_laws
Two and a half years ago, my golf school pro recommended two changes to my swing: 1) Turn my waist more, and 2) keep a high, extended follow-through. These seemed like good suggestions at the time, but eventually my old habits started creeping in. Now, I realize the purpose of both these tips is to promote an inside-out swing path. With a proper hip turn, the club naturally stays inside. And with a high, extended finish, it’s nearly impossible to come over the top at impact.
1 year ago