This post about slicing and blocking in golf is in response to several requests related to a previous golf lesson video on my YouTube Channel about how to stop coming over the top. It is quite common to fix one problem in the golf swing like “coming over the top” on the downswing, and then start a new problem like blocking or pushing the golf ball.
These new missed shots may be straight pushes or even push slices. Blocking and pushing the golf ball stems from the change in clubface position when dropping the club farther inside. Basically the clubface is more open relative to the ball caused by dropping the club farther to the inside on the corrected, shallower downswing plane. When the shaft drops behind the player onto a flatter plane, it leaves the clubface facing upward toward the sky half way down.
If the player is not aware of or not expecting that change, it can be frustrating to watch every shot go right after supposedly getting on the ideal swing plane. The secret is to make the necessary adjustment in wrist and clubface action to deal with the new flatter plane.
A key checkpoint is the half-way position in the downswing once the hands are about waist high. It is imperative that the right palm is beginning to face down as the back of the left hand is also facing down toward the ground. This is part of the infamous pronation and supination referred to in descriptions of Ben Hogan’s downswing and impact positions.
Picture turning your watch face down toward the ground during the downswing, assuming you are a right handed golfer wearing a watch on the left arm. Another way to see it and feel it is to turn the knuckles of the left hand downward so they face the ground and are essentially out of view at the waist-high position coming down.
This move will square up the face quickly to deliver a solid blow at impact using the newly onplane swing. Just remember, when you turn the knuckles down, the shaft cannot be allowed to kick outside or you will be over-the-top again on an outside/in swing path that may shank or pull the ball.
Watch the golf video lesson below to Get Hermanized and learn how to stop blocking and avoid the slice and push shot in golf. Enjoy … and post your comments.
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
Hey Herman, in this video about blocking shots versus the video on casting, you reference that when your hands reach waist high, you should begin the release by rotating the left forearm. Yet in the casting video you demonstrate holding the rotation until your hands have passed your thigh. I know its not exact and the difference in time is fractional but you could please clarify.
I am hooked on your videos!
Pete, thanks for watching and commenting. My initial answer would be these two videos are intended for separate audiences, and the decision for what to do is based more on your current ball flight and swing tendencies. It’s rare to need both of these cures at the same time. For instance if you are a caster, you need to hold things as long as possible, assuming it will initially be tough to change it at all. We want maximum exaggeration until we’re convinced you’re cured or at least have it managed. Once you can lag fairly well, you may find you hit more blocks or fades. At that point I really consider you a different player, and then it may be time to entertain the “knuckles down” move from the blocking video or some other technique to help you square the face in time. As your capability to close the face improves, we may go back and lag more and delay when you close it. For the most advanced players who can quickly close the face we’ll generally make these moves later (maybe after the hands pass the hip) and typically generate more swing speed. Of course then there’s Dustin Johnson who has it completely closed already at the top of his backswing and only has to drop his arms and clear his body. Good luck and stay in touch. – Herman
Just came across your youtube lessons. Very impressive! The release video along with the Blocked shot one are definitely something I’m going to try this weekend. Would love to see a video on the backswing if there isn’t one already.
Teaching is a gift and you’ve got it!
I’ve been struggling with pushes all season. Well struck shots that miss the green have hurt my consistency in scoring. Searching for ideas or tips to try and this one sounds like one that I will give a try.
Come to Ireland and give me a lesson will ya. I’m sick of taking lessons after which I ‘m still coming over the top. Spent a fortune, watched videos, read books. I’ll pay for your hotel.
Hey, thanks Gerry. I’ll let you know if I can work that trip into my schedule. I’d love to do it someday. – Herman
Great video. That simple lesson really helped me out.
PS I had you replace a broken shaft last week and it feels great! Thanks for the good work.
Jon
Thanks Jon … simple is good.