Shanking the Ball

[AEberhard]

There is nothing more embarrassing then shanking the ball off the tee. Lately though this has become a natural occurrence with me! Mostly with my driver, why can't I just hit the ball? I was a 90's golfer, but now with this I have been in the 100's. Is it time for another lesson?

[DenisO]

I had the shanks for a short period this year, not at the course but a few times in a row at the range. I'd setup, but wouldn't trust it and would 'reach' to hit the ball. I quickly ended up fixing that by concentrating on making sure I was turning my hips and my arms were swinging kind of along my body instead of outwards to hit the ball.
But yea, a lesson will do wonders for you, or even just taping yourself you'll probably find your problem instantly.

[cobra]

Another lesson? Absolutely! Everyone can benefit from some coaching.

[leftylucas]

I hate the shanks, I have had them many a time, usually because I would stand too close to the ball

[jeffc]

I hate the shanks, I have had them many a time, usually because I would stand too close to the ball

my problem as well.

[leftylucas]

I think the most frustrating thing is that they seem to appear out of no where. I was at the range at Rivermead and was hitting balls quite well then about 10 shanks in a row. I simply walked away in disbelief and went to putt. I ended up not shanking a single ball during the round and played very well but for the life of me I could not figure out what has happened during my warm-up. They also reappeared this week at the range. I had not gone to a range in a long long time and after about 20 shanks I left very disappointed. They better keep away!!!!!!!

[orangeTANG]

my problem as well.

That was my problem with my wedges a few weeks ago too. I finally after a few rounds started to realize I was standing to close to the ball, and too over the ball. Moving back a bit fixed my problem... for now.

[leftylucas]

Seems to be a common cause, I am off to the range early this afternoon before my game, I hope to get my swing back, maybe I should call Tiger for some tips!!

[AEberhard]

Yeah I think I was shanking because my grip was so hard, and standing to close to the ball. My hand was all black from the grip at the end of the game, just was so frustrated. Anyway game is back up to where it used to be.