How to Fix a Shank in Golf Swing
Shank: It is one of the most dreaded words in golf. There are few things more embarrassing to any golfer because a shank is one of the most recognizable shots in golf. There is no way to hide it or pretend you meant to do something else.
Unlike a slice, in which the face of the club is turned slightly to the side and the ball curves away in that direction, the shank shoots abruptly to the side in a straight line--and it does not matter where the face is pointed. This is because the ball never contacts the club face during a shank. Rather, it strikes the hosel, the short "neck" extending from the head of the club, where the shaft connects to the head. Because of this, the shank has earned the nickname, "hosel rocket."
Shanking can have several different causes, but in his book "Understanding the Golf Swing," Manuel de la Torre offers a drill that will help you stop shanking, no matter what the cause might be (pages113-115). Here is an adaptation of that drill:
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Things You'll Need
- Golf balls
- Two golf clubs -- one for striking the ball, one for use as an alignment aid
- Golf tee
Instructions
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Place one club on the ground, parallel with your target line. This club will be used to align your feet and to help you keep a clear image of the direction you want the ball to travel.
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Take your normal stance using the second club, with your feet on one side of the alignment club and your ball on the other. The ball should be positioned at a comfortable distance, just as it would be when you set up a shot. Remember, the club on the ground is merely there to keep your feet aligned correctly; you will be swinging the club toward your target. It should not otherwise affect your swing.
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Stick a tee in the ground, beside the ball but about one inch closer to you.
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Make your normal swing. Try to hit the ball and the tee at the same time. Initially, you might pull the shot; de la Torre says this is a normal reaction. Standing slightly farther from the ball could correct this tendency.
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Tips & Warnings
The worst thing about shanking is the effect it can have on a player. Remember: No player is immune to the occasional shank, so don't let it get to you if you hit one. If shanking becomes a persistent problem, some time spent with this drill should eliminate it.
