Which would you prefer: to have four over par on your scorecard, or hear a shout of "Fore!"? The answer is obvious. Golfers undoubtedly want their score to improve over previous rounds of play. But the reality is that if you've been slicing the ball in previous rounds, you'll probably continue to do it unless you take corrective measures. But, you can get better, provided you figure out what is causing you to slice the ball in the first place.

In order to know what is causing your slice you need to see how you are lining up with the ball. The first aspect of golf is to relax; most slices come from overcompensating your drive. Most slices occur from the tee too. The best method to see how you are slicing a ball is to line up your clubface with the ball. Your club has a rounded bottom to help drive the ball with as much force as possible.

Because the clubface is designed specifically with this rounded spot, it's important to ensure that the ball is properly aligned. You have the best chance of correcting your game if you play with a friend that can analyze the placement of your swing as you hit the ball. This is crucial unless you are able to go to a pro golf shop or driving range with the proper technology to analyze your swing and give you feedback about your mistakes.

Before you can equate distance into your drive you need to make sure you are hitting it straight down the fairway. A driving range will allow you make some contact but if you are not swinging through properly the course will only make matters worse. Keep your stance solid, lifting your foot like a baseball player takes you off balance.

There is an age-old trick that most people do not know about. In golf, your drive should have all the distance juiced out of the ball so you finish up with your short game and save par. Those who know how to power a golf ball down the fairway have a huge advantage over those who spend their time camping out in the woods looking for their lost ball.

The best method to hit a straight ball is to drive it while on your knees. Now I know it sounds silly but if you have ever tried it then you know that it's virtually impossible for you to lift one knee off the ground while you hit the ball. Your arms are straighter and you are close enough to the ball you can feel the fluid motion it takes.

Give this a whirl a few times and you'll begin to get the feel of a proper swing. This should restrain your body from twisting or aiming the ball improperly, so that you can drive it straight down the fairway. Then, you can take this swing and practice the movement while on your feet.

Once you find out the steps to keep your ball within the fairway, you will keep hitting it there every time. You will not be able to hit two hundred yard drives on your knees but you are not supposed to drive like this all the time. Have a friend help you with your aim and remember never to look up too soon because all you will see is a bad shot.

Posted under Golf