In golf, a “blocked shot” refers to a type of errant shot where the golf ball flies straight but not in the intended direction, often resulting in missing the target or landing in an undesirable location on the golf course. It is also known as a “pushed shot.”
A blocked shot occurs when the clubface is aimed to the right of the target (for right-handed golfers) but the swing path is relatively straight. As a result, the ball starts to the right of the target and continues on a relatively straight path, missing the intended target to the right.
Several factors can contribute to a blocked shot:
- Alignment: Improper alignment is a common cause of blocked shots. If a golfer sets up with their body and clubface aimed too far to the right (for right-handed golfers), it will naturally lead to a swing path that follows the alignment, resulting in a blocked shot.
- Grip: An incorrect grip can affect the clubface position at impact. If the grip is too strong (hands rotated excessively to the right on the club for right-handed golfers), it can cause the clubface to be closed at impact, leading to a blocked shot.
- Swing Path: If the swing path is too straight or slightly inside-out (from inside to outside the target line), it can also result in a blocked shot. This often happens when a golfer fails to properly release the club or swings with an overly arms-dominated motion.
- Weight Shift: Inadequate weight transfer or shifting the weight too much towards the target during the downswing can cause the club to swing too much from the inside, resulting in a blocked shot.
Correcting a blocked shot typically involves analyzing and adjusting the factors mentioned above, such as aligning the body and clubface correctly, adjusting the grip, and working on swing path and weight transfer. It is beneficial to seek guidance from a golf instructor or professional to identify the specific causes and develop a plan to improve shot accuracy.
Blocked Shot: A shot that starts right of the target and curves farther right (when hit by a right-handed golfer). Sometimes referred to as “the good golfer’s miss.”
