August 5, 2026 2:23 pm

The way you start your golf downswing can have a major effect on the direction of your shot. For golfers who regularly slice the ball, the first movement from the top of the backswing is often where the problem begins.

What Causes the Slice?

As you start the downswing, you may move your hands and the grip of the golf club forwards or towards your head. This can push the club away from the correct swing path. From there, the die is cast, and the ball is likely to be heading towards the bushes on the right-hand side.

There are many reasons why golfers develop this movement. Once it becomes part of your swing, it can be REALLY difficult to stop. However, there is a simple drill you can use to practise a better start to the downswing.

Try This Downswing Drill

1.First begin by making a few slow practice swings without hitting a ball.

2.At the top of your backswing, keep your whole body, including your legs, absolutely still.

3.Then allow your hands and the grip end of the golf club to drop vertically. Imagine that gravity alone is controlling their movement through the air.

Try not to push your hands forwards or rush into the downswing. Simply allow them to drop naturally before continuing with the rest of the swing. You may need to repeat this movement a few hundred times before your muscle memory takes over during a full-speed golf shot.

It may feel unusual at first, but keep practising.

A small change to the way you start the downswing could help improve your swing path, reduce your slice and keep more shots away from the bushes on the right. Give it a try. You may surprise yourself!

Categorised in: Tip of the month, World of Golf London