3 Reasons You're Hooking Your Golf Balls

So you hook the ball every now and then.

Don't worry about it, we all do. So does Tiger, and Phil and every golfer on the PGA and LPGA tours.

It's really not an issue unless you're hitting hook shots routinely.

In that case, you likely have a biomechanical problem with your swing.

The good news is, it's pretty simple to identify. Once you do, you can correct your swing and hit the ball straight with much more consistency.

Read on to discover the three biggest reasons why you might be hooking shots.

Why You're Hitting Hook Shots

Like most things, fixing your swing is usually a matter of going back to basics.

You simply have to identify where your swing is lacking the proper mechanics when you when you hit that bad left hook.

The next time you golf, examine these three parts of your game.

Grip

The most common reason for hitting a hook shot is found just before you begin your swing.

How's your grip? Is it too strong?

A strong grip is one of the biggest reasons for people who curve the ball from right to left.

The strong grip often results in the right hand moving to the right and facing away from the ball. The hand slides right and moves underneath the club.

As you swing towards the target, the clubface is closed, and your hand will turn over through the rest of your swing.

To fix the issue, turn your hand more towards the target, in a neutral position.

Make sure the V's between your thumb and index finger on each hand point straight up. When the V's are facing more towards your rear shoulder, you are likely to hit a bad left hook.

Alignment

If you're hitting a bad left hook, chances are you're aiming to the right of the target, leading to an inside/out path on your stroke.

Review your stance, and make sure in correct alignment, with squared up to the target line from head to toe. Run through a mental checklist to confirm your head, shoulders, forearms, hips, knees, and feet are perfectly square.

Swing

Another popular cause for a hook shot is failing to turn your body all the way through the shot. At that same time, you're likely not shifting your weight forward.

So your body stops turning but the club doesn't. So as your swing continues, the clubface closes and hits the ball left upon impact.

In the starting position for your swing, your arms and the club are out in front of you. Don't change that relationship.

Focus on keeping them in front of you through the swing. Make sure you turn until the middle of your chest is facing forward.

And don't forget to shift your weight forward and off your back foot as you turn.

If it sounds like a simple remedy to the hook problem, that's because it is. The best remedies usually are.

The Bottom Line

Hooking the ball consistently is a problem encountered by many skilled players. Fixing the problem elevates your game to that of a consistently strong player.

Developing the perfect swing is a never-ending work in progress.

Develop a routine every time you address the ball, going through your checklist to make sure your grip and alignment are right. On your swing, remember, to shift forward and turn through the swing.

Related: Tips for Improving Your Golf Swing