Before we start, it is a good idea to define what exactly a pull shot is. First of all, a pull is not a golf swing hook and it is not a pull hook. These are all different shots that are caused by different swing faults. The only thing that they all have in common is they end up left of the intended target (for right handed golfers).
Definition of a Golf Pull Shot – A pulled golf shot is when the ball starts off going left of the target line and continues to go left of the target. There is no hook to it; it travels in a more or less straight line and finishes up left of where the golfer thought it was going to land.
If you think you are pulling golf shots, look down at the divot (if there is one). If it is also aiming to the left, then it is a pull shot.
Definition of a Hook – The ball starts RIGHT of target and curves back LEFT to finish LEFT of target.
Definition of a Pull Hook – The ball starts LEFT of target and curves further LEFT of target.
Source: www.free-online-golf-tips.com
Although your golf grip can play a part of slices and hooks, the reality is that the grip is rarely the problem with a pull shot in golf. Unless you felt the grip move in your hand at impact, pulled golf shots is more likely the result of some swing fault.
Causes of Pulled Golf Shots
In fact, there are numerous reasons why golfers end up pulling a shot. Below are some of the more common causes:
- The main cause is that the golfer is actually aiming towards the left and not realizing it. If you hit pull shots, have someone stand behind you and on-line with your ball as you address the ball. They will be able to see where the club-head is pointing and the position your feet, hips, and shoulders are aligned.
- Also in the setup position, if the ball is positioned too far forward in your stance, this might also pull to the left.
- An incorrect backswing can result in a pull also. Again, have someone watch your swing. At the top of the backswing, if your club is over your head, you are going to pull the ball. Your club should be over your shoulders at the apex of your backswing.
- An incorrect downswing can also cause a pulled shot. When the club-head moves in an outside-inside swing plane, it will shoot the ball off to the left.
- Also in the downswing, when there is no weight transfer from the right foot back to the left foot during the downswing, it is possible that you will pull your shot.
- Some golfers tend to uncock their wrists far too early in the downswing. This will result in the club-head returning to the ball in a closed position, resulting in the ball flying to the left.
The easiest way to learn how to stop pulling golf shots is to have an experienced golfer or a club professional observe you as go through your swing. This may take several repeated swings before your tutor sees the problem, but it is worth the trouble if you want to fix this swing problem.
Hopefully the fixes will be simple to correct, like if you are aiming too far left, you just need to readjust your line. Other fixes could take somewhat longer to correct, but once you know where your fault lies, the process will be a lot quicker than if you do not know the cause.
Finally, remember to solicit the help of someone to watch you swing as this is the easiest and most efficient way to narrow down the possible reasons for a pulled golf shot. Another method would be to get someone to video your swing so that you can both watch your swing to find your swing fault.
The pull is a common flaw. There’s been a lot of people asking for the cure so here it is. Just follow along and do the drills whenever you find yourself hitting this shot.
