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1. |
Ball Flight
In a
"correct" or straight shot, during the downswing, the clubhead
comes from the inside of the target line, strikes the ball with the
clubface straight, imparting backspin to the ball, then moves to the
inside of the target line on the way through. The resulting divot is
straight towards the target, indicating a good swing and proper
alignment.
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2. |
There are two "incorrect" or non-straight shots. The first is the
slice, or a curve to the right. During the downswing that results in
a slice, the clubhead comes from the outside of the target line and
crosses to the inside of the target line on the way through. This swing
path imparts sidespin to the ball, which curves it to the right. The
resulting divot is to the left. Possible alignment problems include an
open stance aimed to the left of the target. |
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3. |
In a
hook, or a curve to the left, the clubhead comes from the inside
of the target line and crosses to the outside on the way through the
ball. This also gives the ball a sidespin, which causes the ball to
curve to the left, and the telltale divot is to the right. Possible
alignment problems include a closed stance that is aimed to the right of
the target. |
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4. |
Alignment
To
get a proper alignment, or aim, start by positioning yourself about 10
feet directly behind the ball, keeping the ball between yourself and the
target. Put your grip on the club at this point. |
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5. |
Pick
a spot on the ground about 3 feet in front of the ball that is on line
to the target, and use that spot as a reference for addressing the ball
and aiming your clubface. |
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6. |
Keeping focus on your spot, walk up to the ball. With your feet
together, get into your posture standing parallel to your target line,
which is drawn from the ball to the spot 3 feet in front of the ball,
towards the target. |
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7. |
Address the ball, keeping your body square to the target line and
positioning your feet appropriately for the club you are going to use.
The line of the tips of your toes, knees, hips, and shoulders should be
parallel to your target line. |
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8. |
Position the club behind the golf ball with the clubface pointed
squarely towards the target spot in front of the golf ball. With strong
swing fundamentals and proper alignment, the flight of the golf ball
should straight towards the target on every shot. |
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9. |
Recommended Practice
Go
to the range and place a club on the ground between yourself and your
ball, to use as a reference. For a right-handed golfer, aim the shaft
about 5 yards to the left of the target, and for a left-handed golfer,
aim the club about 5 yards to the right of the target. Align your toes
parallel to the club on the ground and practice about 20 shots, then
remove the club and test yourself.
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10. |
Another way to test your alignment is to lay your club down on the
ground against the tips of your toes after you hit a shot. Lay another
club on the ground next to your ball, parallel to the other club. Now,
step back and see where the club next to the ball is aimed in relation
to your target. If the club is lined up straight to the target, then
you're perfect. If it is not aimed down the target line, then keep
practicing your alignment! |