The hook in golf is an error in the player's swing (i.e. shooting technique) that causes the ball to deflect to the left of the target (or to the right of the target if the player is left-handed). The cause of this error lies in the player's too strong grip on the stick: at the moment of contact with the ball, the head of the club is slightly turned towards the player and this alters the trajectory of the ball. This guide shows some methods for correcting a hook.
Steps
Step 1. Observe your grip
- If you see 3 knuckles of your left hand (right if you are left handed) instead of only seeing 2, it means that you have too strong a grip on the stick. This causes the club head to rotate on impact, which creates a counterclockwise (or clockwise if you are left handed) rotation of the ball. This rotation is what causes the ball's trajectory to deviate.
- Turn your hands counterclockwise (or clockwise if you are left handed) until you see only 2 knuckles of your left (or right) hand. This will give you a lighter grip on the club and the club head will be perpendicular to the ball upon impact. This way you avoid making a rotational movement to the ball.
Step 2. Increase the strength of the grip on the stick
If lightening the grip as described above fails to correct the hook, it may be that you are not applying enough pressure. Too light pressure opens the clubhead too soon, which causes the ball to rotate. To correct the defect, hold the cane firmly and keep your wrist and forearm soft.
Step 3. Change the location
Keep your feet, hips, shoulders and knees aligned with the stick and pointed towards the goal.
Step 4. Practice the swing
Step 5. The left-toe-right pass (or right-toe-left if you are left-handed) helps keep the club perpendicular to the ball during the swing and helps you keep your balance
Starting from your basic position, slide your back foot to the left (or right) and lift it until only the toe touches the ground. Keep your weight on your right (or left) foot during the throw.
Step 6. Place one of your canopies under your right arm (or under your left arm)
This will help keep your elbow close to your body, increasing the range of the swing.
Step 7. Try the right-toe-back anti-hook pass (left-toe-back if you are lefty) to improve control on the club
Place the club cover on the ground just behind and to the left (or right) of the ball. Move your right (or left) foot back and strike. This workout facilitates the rotational movement of the hip rather than moving it forward.
