The Best Golf Instruction On How To Stop Scooping The Ball
Scooping the ball can be prevented by simply paying more attention to the right side of your body during swing. Much of the no-scoop technique has a lot to do with your mind. If you can change how you perceive the swing, you will be on your way to improving your shot—getting more distance and better accuracy each time.
A word of warning
If you think scooping is not a severe golfing error, then heed this fair warning. Consistent scooping of the golf ball is not only bad for your game, but your back too. Many golfers have suffered injury because of this error and don’t even realize where their back pain stems from. If you haven’t suffered this misfortune yet, prevent future back problems by eliminating the scoop from your shot once and for all. Here’s how.
Use your right index finger as a brace
When gripping your club, it helps to straighten out your right index finger along the handle. Should this finger bend or twist during your swing, you will know that your wrist is cocking too much—a common mistake that leads to a hooked shot.
Don’t lift your right shoulder
When swinging, you can often see new players lifting their right shoulder. This is because they subconsciously want to scoop the ball up into the air. This plays havoc on your back and will actually compromise the accuracy of your shot—so avoid it at all costs. Be mentally aware of keeping those shoulders steady. They should roll, but they should not lift.
Stiff grip – lose torso
Cocking your wrist can cause scooping, so always try to keep your grip as sturdy as possible. However, there should be a balance between a firm grip and lose upper body. Shoulders should role and your stomach should be flexible—almost elastic—during your swing. Don’t stiffen your body in an attempt to tighten your grip. Learn to control each factor individually without confusing it with the other.
Straighten your clubface
You may also be opening your clubface without realizing that you’re doing so. This is another attempt to gain more height on the ball, but it only results in bad aim and loss of distance. Keep your clubface straight and it will do what it’s supposed to. There’s no need to manipulate your club in any way.