Yes, a proper shoulder turn can indeed help eliminate a golf slice. The slice is a common ball flight issue where the ball curves excessively from left to right (for right-handed golfers). It is often caused by an open clubface at impact and an out-to-in swing path. A proper shoulder turn can help you achieve a more desirable swing path and clubface position, which can reduce or eliminate the slice. Here's how to work on your shoulder turn to improve your ball flight: 
- Establish a Neutral Grip: Ensure that your grip on the club is not too weak or strong. A neutral grip promotes a square clubface position at impact, which is essential for eliminating the slice.
- Proper Alignment: Align your body and clubface square to the target. Aim your feet, hips, and shoulders parallel to the target line. This helps set up a more neutral swing path.
- Engage the Upper Body: During the backswing, focus on turning your shoulders away from the target. Allow your lead shoulder (left shoulder for right-handed golfers) to rotate under your chin. This creates a full and proper shoulder turn, which sets the stage for a more effective downswing.
- Monitor the Clubface: Pay attention to the position of the clubface throughout the swing. Keep it square to the target as you complete your shoulder turn. Avoid the tendency to open the clubface too much in the backswing, as this can lead to a slice.
- Maintain Connection: Ensure that your arms and body work together in harmony. Maintain connection by keeping your lead arm (left arm for right-handed golfers) connected to your chest during the backswing. This promotes a more controlled and synchronized swing.
- Initiate the Downswing with the Hips: Start the downswing by initiating the movement with your lower body, specifically your hips. This helps to create an inside-out swing path, which is crucial for reducing a slice. Rotate your hips toward the target, allowing your upper body to follow naturally.
- Square Clubface at Impact: Focus on squaring the clubface at impact. This can be achieved by rotating your forearms and wrists through the downswing. Avoid leaving the clubface open at impact, as it can exacerbate the slice.
- Follow Through and Finish Strong: Complete your swing with a balanced and full follow-through. Maintain good posture and extend your arms toward the target. A proper finish helps promote a more consistent swing path and clubface position.
- Practice with Alignment Aids: Use alignment aids such as alignment sticks or training aids to help reinforce proper shoulder turn and swing path. These aids provide visual feedback and can assist you in grooving a better swing.
- Seek Professional Instruction: If you're struggling to eliminate your slice, consider seeking guidance from a golf professional. They can assess your swing, identify any specific issues, and provide tailored drills and exercises to improve your shoulder turn and overall swing mechanics.
Update:
Eliminating a golf slice with a full shoulder turn can offer several benefits to golfers. Let's explore those benefits along with some Q&A on the topic:
Benefits of Eliminating a Golf Slice with a Full Shoulder Turn:
- Improved Accuracy: A full shoulder turn helps square the clubface at impact, reducing the open face angle that causes a slice. This leads to straighter shots and improved accuracy off the tee and fairway.
- Increased Distance: By eliminating a slice, golfers can achieve a more optimal ball flight with less sidespin, leading to longer and more consistent shots.
- Better Ball Control: With a full shoulder turn, golfers can better control the path of their swing and the direction of their shots, reducing the likelihood of errant shots.
- Enhanced Consistency: A consistent full shoulder turn helps create a repeatable swing, leading to more consistent ball-striking and improved performance on the course.
- More Confidence: Correcting a slice and hitting straighter shots can boost a golfer's confidence, leading to a more enjoyable and rewarding golfing experience.
Q&A on Eliminating a Golf Slice with a Full Shoulder Turn:
Q: What is a golf slice, and why is it a common problem among golfers? A: A golf slice is a shot that curves severely from left to right (for right-handed golfers) or right to left (for left-handed golfers). It is a common problem caused by an open clubface at impact and an outside-in swing path.
Q: How does a full shoulder turn help eliminate a golf slice? A: A full shoulder turn allows golfers to get into a more powerful and connected position at the top of the backswing. This helps them initiate the downswing on a more inside path, reducing the chances of an outside-in swing that promotes a slice.
Q: What are some tips for achieving a full shoulder turn in the golf swing? A: To achieve a full shoulder turn, golfers should focus on rotating their shoulders as much as possible while maintaining their spine angle and balance. Avoid swaying or lifting during the backswing, as it can limit the shoulder turn.
Q: Are there any specific drills or exercises to improve the shoulder turn and eliminate a slice? A: Yes, there are various drills and exercises that can help improve the shoulder turn. One common drill is the “shoulder turn drill,” where golfers use a towel or club across their chest to ensure they make a full turn without lifting the arms.
Q: Can other swing faults contribute to a slice, even with a full shoulder turn? A: Yes, a slice can be caused by a combination of swing faults, including an open clubface, an outside-in swing path, and poor weight transfer. Addressing these issues in conjunction with a full shoulder turn can lead to more effective results.
Q: How can golfers maintain a full shoulder turn throughout the swing? A: Golfers should focus on maintaining the connection between their arms and body throughout the swing. Practicing with a mirror or recording their swing can help golfers monitor their shoulder turn and make necessary adjustments.
By incorporating a full shoulder turn into their swing, golfers can enhance their performance, eliminate a slice, and experience more consistent and enjoyable rounds on the course.
Remember, eliminating a slice takes time and practice. Focus on developing a proper shoulder turn, maintaining a square clubface, and cultivating an inside-out swing path. Consistent practice and attention to these fundamentals will help you reduce or eliminate your slice and improve your overall ball flight.
