Hitting a driver straight down the fairway is the goal of every golfer, yet for most, it seems impossible. Slices and hooks are common problems that plague golfers of all skill levels. So, why do 95% of golfers struggle to hit their driver straight? This article breaks down the most common swing faults and offers simple, actionable advice to help you hit straighter drives and find more fairways.
The Root of the Problem: Common Swing Flaws
The majority of driver issues come from two main areas: your clubface and your swing path.
- The Open Clubface: A slice is usually caused by an open clubface at impact. When the clubface points to the right (for a right-handed golfer), the ball will start to the right and curve further to the right.
- The “Over-the-Top” Swing Path: This is a classic move where the club travels from outside to inside the target line. This path, combined with an open clubface, is the perfect recipe for a slice. For a hook, the opposite is true: the clubface is closed at impact.
Fixes & Drills That Actually Work
Don’t worry, these issues are fixable! Here are some simple “crazy but it works” tips to get you hitting straighter drives.
- The “Gate” Drill: Place two headcovers on the ground to create a small “gate” just in front of your ball. Practice swinging the club through the gate. This drill helps you improve your swing path from the inside, which promotes a draw instead of a slice.
- The “Towel Under the Arm” Drill: Place a towel under your lead arm (left arm for right-handed golfers) and try to keep it there throughout the swing. This helps to connect your arms and body, preventing an over-the-top motion and promoting a more controlled swing.
- Focus on the Target: Instead of focusing on your swing mechanics, try to focus on a specific target far down the fairway. This helps your body and mind work together to hit the ball in the right direction.
Conclusion
While it may seem like a complex problem, hitting your driver straight can be simplified. By addressing the common faults of an open clubface and an over-the-top swing path, you can start hitting more consistent and accurate drives. These simple drills can help you join the 5% of golfers who hit the driver straight.
Want to see these tips in action? Check on YouTube