Golfing is a sport that requires precision and skill. Unfortunately, even the most skilled golfers can experience the dreaded shank – when the ball comes off the inside heel of the club. Not only does this result in a poor shot, but it can also be frustrating and lead to added strokes. Luckily, there are ways to avoid shanking the ball and improve your game. In this article, we will provide you with 10 tips from a top golf teacher, Kellie Stenzel, to help you avoid the shanks forever.
Improve Your Posture
Proper posture is essential in golfing. When your body is too close to the club, it can often lead to contact with the heel and result in a shank. To improve your posture, make sure to bend from your hips and allow your arms to hang straight up and down in a natural position. This will create a better swing path and allow for center-face contact with the ball.
Adjust Your Setup
If you tend to use an open setup, it can cause the ball to hit the heel of the club. To avoid this, consider using a more square-to-closed setup instead. This adjustment will help prevent the arms from moving out and away during the swing, which can lead to a shanked shot.
Beware of an Open Clubface
An open clubface not only leads to a slice but can also cause heel contact. This is because an open face provides less hitting surface on the club, and if you have a swing that comes over the top, it often results in dragging the heel across the ball, leading to a shank. Focus on keeping the clubface square and aligned with your target.
Embrace Circular Motion
Many golfers believe that the swing should be straight back and through, but this linear swing line can often lead to hitting the heel. Instead, allow your backswing to have some circular motion, meaning your body naturally rotates. This will help you stay on plane and make center-face contact with the ball.
Release Tension in Your Swing
Tension in the golf swing is a recipe for disaster and can expose the heel to the ball. Avoid gripping the club too tightly as this inhibits proper club release. Practice holding the club while closing your fingers without squeezing them. Move the clubhead back and forth in a circular motion to get a sense of how your wrists should move.
Watch Your Shaft Lean
Having excessive shaft lean at address or impact can lead to a shank for several reasons. First, it can place the heel of the club closer to the ball, especially if the shaft lean opens the clubface. Second, excessive shaft lean adds tension to the lead arm, making it difficult to release the club properly. Achieve a moderate amount of shaft lean for optimal performance.
Consider Using Hybrids
Hybrids offer more forgiveness compared to irons, so even if you hit it off the heel, it won’t result in a shank. Incorporating more hybrids into your rounds can help you avoid shanks and improve your overall performance. Practice with a hybrid on the range to build confidence and achieve better results.
Utilize Higher-Lofted Wedges
When you need to hit a high, soft shot, you don’t need to drastically open the clubface. Higher-lofted wedges, such as a 58 or 60-degree wedge, allow you to protect yourself from mishits off the heel without the need for extreme clubface manipulation. Let the loft of the wedge do the work for you.
Try Training Aids
If you’re starting to hit shanks, consider using training aids to correct your swing. One effective method is to place an alignment board on the outside of the ball during practice. This visual aid helps guide you away from making heel contact, allowing for instant adjustments and a better feel of the clubhead crossing the center line of the golf ball.
Benefit from Alignment Sticks
Alignment sticks are versatile training aids that can help correct issues with your swing path and body movements. Use them to improve your overall golf game. Whether you need assistance with swing path alignment or body position, alignment sticks provide a simple yet effective solution to enhance your performance on the course.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can bad posture cause shanking?
Yes, improper posture can lead to heel contact and result in a shanked shot. Ensure you maintain a proper distance between your body and the club to avoid this issue.
How do hybrids help with shanks?
Hybrids offer more forgiveness compared to irons. Even if you hit a hybrid off the heel, it won’t produce a shanked shot like an iron would. Adding hybrids to your game can help you avoid shanks and achieve better results.
Do training aids really help with shanks?
Yes, training aids can be effective in correcting swing issues that lead to shanking. Using tools like alignment boards or alignment sticks can provide visual cues and allow for immediate adjustments, leading to improved performance.
How can I improve my swing path alignment?
Alignment sticks are a useful tool for improving swing path alignment. Simply place them on the ground parallel to your target line and practice swinging along the desired path. This will help you establish a consistent and accurate swing path.
Can alignment sticks be used for other purposes?
Yes, alignment sticks have many applications beyond swing path alignment. They can also be used to help with body movements and alignment during different aspects of your golf game, making them a versatile training aid.
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