Fixing An Over The Top Golf Swing | Titleist Tips
Over-the-top swings are one of the most common issues plaguing amateur golfers. Ask a group of weekend golfers about their biggest frustration, and many (if not most) will mention the dreaded slice – often a direct result of an over-the-top swing fault
. In an over-the-top swing, the club comes down from outside the target line, which typically sends the ball curving badly (a slice to the right for a right-handed golfer)
. This move robs golfers of power and consistency. It’s easy to see why fixing an over-the-top swing can have a huge positive impact: straighter shots, more distance, and lower scores.
Why is this fault so common? For beginners, the over-the-top move usually comes from a strong “hit impulse” – they want to smash the ball, so they throw their upper body at it from the top of the swing. The result is an out-to-in club path that produces weak slices or pull shots. Even experienced players can fall into this habit, leading to a steep downswing plane and inconsistent contact
. The good news is that because it’s so common, golf instructors have developed simple drills and tips to fix it. In this article, we’ll explain exactly what an over-the-top swing is, why it happens, and provide step-by-step drills to instantly cure it. By addressing this issue, you can transform your ball flight from a banana slice into a powerful, controlled shot down the fairway. Let’s dive in and get your swing back on plane!
Understanding Over-the-Top Swings
What does “over-the-top” mean? In simple terms, it refers to a swing path error where the club starts the downswing by moving out and over the proper swing plane. Technically, the clubhead comes outside of the target line as it descends, instead of dropping to the inside
. Imagine a baseball player throwing a ball sidearm – that’s similar to what an over-the-top golf swing looks like from behind. The club cuts across the ball from the outside, usually resulting in left-to-right spin (slice) for a right-hander. This is the opposite of the desirable inside-out path that produces a straight shot or gentle draw.
The biomechanics behind it: An over-the-top move is often a sequencing problem. It usually happens when the golfer starts the downswing with the upper body (shoulders and arms) rather than the lower body. For example, if you unwind your shoulders aggressively from the top of the backswing, your hands and club will be thrown outward. One common cause is the left shoulder “spinning” open toward the target too early
. This leaves the club no choice but to come down steeply from outside the line. Another cause can be improper wrist positions – like an early casting or cupping of the wrists – that push the club over the top. In fact, studies have shown that poor wrist angles combined with inadequate body rotation often lead directly to an over-the-top downswing
. In essence, the downswing plane gets “thrown” above the ideal path.
Why it’s a problem: Coming over the top disrupts the natural chain of motion in the swing. The swing sequence gets out of sync and the clubface usually opens relative to the path
, which is why the ball tends to slice. The outside-in path also means you're effectively cutting across the ball, creating glancing blows instead of solid contact. This costs you distance and accuracy. High slices that barely go anywhere or nasty pull shots left are typical results of an over-the-top swing. Furthermore, a steep over-the-top downswing can dig into the turf too much, causing fat shots, or force last-second adjustments like standing up (the "early release"), leading to thin shots. It’s a chain reaction of mis-hits and frustration.
Mental side: It’s worth noting many golfers don’t even realize they’re swinging over the top. You might just feel you’re slicing or hitting weak fades and not understand the root cause. Recognizing why it happens is the first step to fixing it. In many cases, it stems from the understandable urge to hit the ball hard. Golfers hear “use your hips” or “start from the ground up,” but under pressure they still lash from the top with their arms. Understanding that this move is counterproductive is key – the instant you stop trying to hit with your shoulders and arms, you can start to make the correct downswing move. As we’ll see, the fix often involves doing almost the opposite of what feels natural at first. Now that we know what an over-the-top swing is and why it happens, let’s move on to how to correct it with some drills.
Step-by-Step Drills to Fix an Over-the-Top Swing
The fastest way to fix an over-the-top swing is to train a new downswing pattern. The following drills will help you ingrain the correct “inside-out” swing path and sequencing. These include drills mentioned in the video and additional exercises that many golf instructors recommend. Practice them step by step – you might be surprised how quickly your ball flight improves.
Drill 1: The Headcover (Obstacle) Drill
This simple drill gives you instant feedback to prevent coming over the top. Step-by-step:
Setup an Obstacle: Take a headcover (or a water bottle, or any object about 4-6 inches tall) and place it just outside the ball on your target line, a few inches behind the ball. In other words, if you’re a right-hander, place the object on the right-hand side of your swing path, just outside where the club would swing down. It should be slightly behind the ball (on the target side of the ball) and just outside the clubhead’s path to the ball.
Make a Swing: Now hit shots (start with practice swings first) aiming to strike the ball without touching the headcover. If you come over the top with an outside-in swing, you’ll crash into the headcover immediately – instant feedback! If you swing on a correct inside path, the club will miss the headcover and strike the ball cleanly.
Focus on Path: As you swing, feel like the clubhead is approaching the ball from inside the target line, almost as if trying to hit the inside-back quadrant of the ball. The presence of the obstacle forces you to drop your hands and club down rather than out. Start slowly – even slow-motion swings – to engrain the feeling of the club dropping under and traveling out toward right field (for righties).
Gradually Increase Speed: Once you can consistently miss the headcover at slow speed, build up to fuller, faster swings. The goal is to retrain your downswing path. Over time, your body will learn to naturally avoid that outside path.
This drill is highly effective. As instructor Alex Clearwater notes, “If you’re ready to cut across the ball, you’d slam right into that obstacle.”
By practicing with an object outside the ball, you learn to swing from the inside. Many golfers find their slice is immediately reduced or eliminated using this drill, because it physically prevents the over-the-top move. It basically forces the correct in-to-out swing path.
Drill 2: The Pool Noodle (Swing Plane) Drill
This drill promotes a proper shallowing of the club in the downswing. You’ll need a friend or a training aid for this one, such as an alignment stick or a pool noodle (those foam tubes) attached to an object. Step-by-step:
Set the Angle: Have a friend hold a pool noodle or alignment rod at about a 45-degree angle from the ground, positioned a few feet in front of you (toward the target) and slightly to your trailing side. Alternatively, stick an alignment rod into the ground at a 45° angle pointing over the ball (if you have something to anchor it). The rod/noodle should roughly align with the plane of an ideal downswing – coming from inside the target line. It should create a “gate” you need to swing under.
Take a Backswing: Swing back as normal. At the top, start your downswing under the noodle or stick. Your goal is to have the club travel beneath that angled obstacle on the way down
. This forces you to shallow the club and keep your arms in a proper slot.
Feel the Shallow: As you initiate the downswing, feel like your trail elbow (right elbow for right-handers) drops into your side and your hands fall closer to your body. The club head will naturally shallow (flatten) and come from the inside. If you were to come over the top, your club would hit the pool noodle because it would be coming out above the correct plane.
Swing Through: Swing through to the finish, making sure you missed the noodle. Start slowly if needed. This drill exaggerates the correct path: club under the noodle, traveling out to the ball. After a few tries, you’ll get a clear sense of the correct downswing plane versus the wrong one.
This drill essentially gives you a visual and physical target for your swing plane. Cameron McCormick (coach to PGA pro Jordan Spieth) often uses a similar drill to teach shallowing of the shaft
. The idea is that the ideal downswing path has the club dropping below your trail shoulder and coming through underneath your lead arm. Practicing with a guide like a pool noodle makes you aware of where your club is in space. Over time, your body adjusts to consistently miss the obstacle, which means you’re now swinging on plane instead of over the top. It’s a foolproof way to learn the in-to-out move.
Drill 3: The Step-Through Weight Shift Drill
A major key to stopping an over-the-top move is initiating the downswing with the lower body (hips and weight shift) rather than the shoulders. This drill teaches you the correct weight shift and improves your sequencing:
Address with Narrow Stance: Start with your feet fairly close together at address. You can even have your lead foot (left foot for right-handers) almost touching your trail foot.
Step on the Downswing: Begin your backswing. As you reach the top of the swing, step your lead foot out toward the target (into a normal stance position) before you start down. It will feel like a forward step or a gentle “stomp” into the ground with your front foot. This movement simulates the proper weight transfer to your lead side at the start of the downswing.
Swing Through: After stepping, let the arms drop and swing through. The stepping motion should naturally drop your club on an inside path because your weight is shifting left (for right-handers) instead of your upper body lunging forward. It also helps prevent rushing from the top with the shoulders.
Repeat and Rhythm: Practice this in a smooth rhythm: backswing, step, swing. At first do it without a ball to get the coordination, then try hitting some shots. The ball may not go perfectly at first, but focus on the feel of leading with your lower body.
This step-through drill is like the famous Gary Player “walking swing” – it promotes a full weight transfer. By stepping toward the target as you swing down, you ensure your weight isn’t left on your back foot (a common cause of coming over the top and slicing). It also automatically delays the upper body just enough to drop the club inside. Many instructors use some form of a step or stomp drill to fix sequencing. In fact, Top 100 teacher Jonathan Yarwood suggests that instead of spinning your shoulders from the top, you should “shift your weight diagonally along your target line” toward your lead toe
. The stepping motion captures that idea. After practicing this, you’ll notice you can start your downswing with a slight bump of the hips rather than a shoulder spin – a critical move to stop the over-the-top.
Drill 4: The Pump Drill (Drop the Arms)
The Pump Drill is a classic exercise to train the correct transition. It helps you feel the arms dropping and the body staying quiet at the start of the downswing. Here’s how to do it:
Go to the Top: Take a full backswing and pause at the top. Feel fully coiled in your torso, with your weight mostly on your back foot.
Pump Motion: Instead of swinging through, start a partial downswing by moving your arms and club down a bit (perhaps a quarter of the way down) without a lot of shoulder turn. Essentially, you are “dropping” your hands toward your trail hip while your chest is still mostly turned away from the target. Then stop. You should feel the club shallow (the shaft shallowing out) as you do this. This is the first pump.
Repeat Pump: Go back up to the top position (or near it) and do the drop again. Do this pump action two or three times in a row: drop the arms a little – pause – back up; drop again – pause… Each pump reinforces that the downswing begins by the arms falling and the weight shifting, not by spinning the shoulders.
Swing Through: After the final pump, go ahead and swing through the ball from that semi-downswing position. You should feel like the club is in the “slot” (coming from inside) when you finally swing through.
This drill can be done without hitting a ball at first, then progress to hitting shots. It’s excellent for breaking the habit of an over-the-top transition. By pausing and rehearsing the first move down, you can ensure you’re starting correctly. Many golfers find that after a few weeks of pump drill practice, their muscle memory changes – the downswing starts to automatically route from the inside. (Tip: If possible, do this drill in front of a mirror or record your swing. You’ll be able to see if the club is dropping to the inside or if you inadvertently still cast it over the top.) The pump drill basically exaggerates the delay of shoulder turn and encourages the feeling of the club “slotting” into a shallow plane. It’s simple but very effective for ingraining a new sequence.
Additional Drill: Split-Grip or Trail Arm Only Swings (Optional)
Here’s a bonus exercise that can help if you’re struggling with the concept of swinging from the inside:
Split-Grip Swings: Take your normal stance and grip, but slide your trail hand (right hand) down the shaft of the club, so there’s a few inches gap between your hands (almost like a hockey grip). Make some half swings. The split grip will make you very aware of the club’s path. To make solid contact, you’ll naturally swing more from the inside; if you come over the top with a split grip, it feels extremely awkward. This drill also encourages proper wrist hinge and a later release. It’s a good way to get the feel of an inside approach.
Trail Arm Only Swings: Take a mid-iron and swing it with your trail arm only (right arm for right-handers). Support it with your lead hand lightly on your chest or behind your back. Make slow half swings focusing on dropping the right arm in front of your body on the downswing. Since your trailing arm is the one that often “flings” over the top, training it alone can groove the correct motion. You want your right elbow to lead into your side on the way down, not flying out. Practice that motion and you’ll sense a much shallower path.
These additional drills can further reinforce a good swing plane. Remember, the goal of all these exercises is to retrain your downswing sequence: lower body initiates, arms drop, club comes from inside, then you rotate through. By doing these drills regularly, you can instantly start fixing your over-the-top move – and with continued practice, make the cure permanent. Choose one or two drills that resonate with you and incorporate them into your range sessions. Even dedicating 10-15 minutes of your practice to these can make a dramatic difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fixing Over-the-Top Swings
As you work on correcting your swing, be mindful of some common errors golfers make in the process. It’s easy to replace one bad habit with another if you’re not careful. Here are several mistakes to watch out for (and avoid):
Overdoing the Inside-Out: After years of slicing, some players swing too far from the inside once they try to correct it. They’ll shove the club way behind them in the downswing to avoid coming over the top. This can lead to pushes or nasty hooks if the clubface flips closed. Remember, we want a slightly inside path – not an extreme one. Don’t try to hit big hooks; focus on a neutral in-to-out path. A path that’s just a few degrees inside-out is ideal. If your divots start pointing way right of the target (for a right-hander), you might be overcooking it. Moderation is key.
Not Starting the Downswing Correctly: A huge mistake is still initiating the downswing with the shoulders, even when you know you shouldn’t. It’s a hard habit to break. Many golfers will do the drills above nicely in practice swings, but when a ball is there, the old instinct kicks in – they yank from the top again. Be very conscious of starting the downswing with your weight shift or hip bump. A great swing thought is “lower body leads, upper body follows.” If you feel your chest spinning out first, reset and try a rehearsal swing with a quiet upper body to remind yourself.
Improper Backswing Fixes: Some golfers read about fixing over-the-top and then contort their backswing trying to prevent it, which introduces new problems. Two common issues: (a) Pulling the arms excessively behind the body in the backswing, and (b) Over-rotating or swaying the hips. For (a), while keeping the arms “in front of the chest” is good, don’t misunderstand it as a need to wrap your arms far around your back. If you yank your lead arm too far across your chest going back, you might actually force a steep downswing because there’s no room to drop the arms (they get stuck behind you). The fix is to have a solid, width-y backswing with your lead arm comfortably across the chest but not pinned way back
. For (b), if you slide your hips way forward on the backswing or stand up out of your posture, your downswing will likely be out of sequence and steep
. Maintain a stable turn going back – you can allow a little hip turn, but don’t lose your balance or posture.
Swinging Hard from the Top: This is worth mentioning again. A very common mistake when trying to fix a slice/over-the-top is to still hit too hard, too soon. It’s human nature – you want that ball to go straight and far, and in the moment of truth, you tense up and swing with all arms and shoulders. As one instructor quipped, so many golfers “try to hit the ball hard from the top. And this creates that over-the-top move”
. The cure is counterintuitive: relax and swing at maybe 80% effort while you ingrain the new pattern. Focus on a smooth transition. You can always ramp the speed back up once the correct sequence feels natural. In fact, you’ll likely be surprised that when you swing correctly (even at what feels like 80% effort), the ball actually goes farther – because you’re delivering the clubhead more efficiently, from the inside with a square face.
Giving Up Too Soon: Finally, a mental mistake is expecting an overnight miracle and getting discouraged. Yes, our title says “instantly fix” and you may indeed see immediate improvement with the right changes (many golfers do see a big difference right away). However, completely ingraining a new swing move does take practice. Don’t hit three balls, slice one of them and declare nothing works. Stick with the drills for multiple practice sessions. Minor relapses can happen, but that doesn’t mean you’re hopeless. The worst thing you can do is abandon the fix and revert to old habits. Stay patient and keep reinforcing the fundamentals – your swing will improve.
By being aware of these common pitfalls, you can ensure that your road to an over-the-top cure is a smooth one. In summary: don’t over-compensate with extreme moves, start the downswing correctly, keep your backswing fundamentals solid, dial back the urge to kill the ball, and commit to the process. Avoiding these mistakes will make your practice more effective and your results more consistent.
Expert Insights on Fixing Swing Mechanics
Let’s take a look at what professional golfers and top instructors have to say about curing an over-the-top swing. Sometimes a single tip or insight from an expert can really resonate and help you understand the fix on a deeper level.
Jonathan Yarwood (Top 100 Teacher): Yarwood emphasizes the importance of weight shift in curing the over-the-top move. According to him, the root cause of many over-the-top swings is improper weight sequencing – golfers tend to shift their weight to the wrong foot (toward the toes of the back foot) at the start of the downswing
. His foolproof fix: “Start the downswing by pushing from your back heel into your front toes.”
In practice, that means pressure goes from your right heel to left toe (for a righty) as you transition. This diagonal weight shift keeps your upper body from dominating. It also automatically shallows the club: “As a result, the club gets into what we call a shallow position,” Yarwood says
. He even suggests a drill of making swings with your trail heel off the ground and lead toe off the ground to train this feel
. The takeaway: proper weight shift can eliminate your over-the-top by allowing the club to drop inside while your body stays back (closed) a fraction longer.
Butch Harmon (renowned coach to Tiger Woods, etc.): Butch often teaches the idea of keeping the arms in front of the chest throughout the swing. This concept is directly related to avoiding the over-the-top. If your arms stray too far behind you on the backswing or downswing, you’ll have to fling them over the top to catch up. Harmon’s advice is to sync the arm swing with the body turn. A feeling he likes is that at the top of the backswing, your hands are roughly above the right shoulder (not deep behind it). This way, on the way down you just drop them slightly and turn – no rerouting needed. One thread summarizing Harmon’s tips noted that “a common theme is keeping the arms in front of the chest on the backswing and downswing.”
This is a great thought for someone who tends to get the club stuck then come over the top. Essentially, don’t over-backrotate your arms. A connected swing will naturally be on plane.
Cameron McCormick (coach to Jordan Spieth): McCormick often focuses on shallowing the club for players who swing over the top. He has a drill where you pause at the top and then try to drop the clubhead directly into the “slot” (the zone behind your trailing hip) before swinging down. One easy swing thought from McCormick: imagine the shaft of the club is trying to lay flat or horizontal early in the downswing. This is an exaggerated feel to counteract a steep move. By practicing shallowing, even exaggerating it, you train away the classic over-the-top steepness. McCormick’s approach underlines that getting the club on a shallower plane will naturally lead to an inside-out path and better ball flight
. (In fact, many tour pros shallow the club significantly – watch any slow-motion of a pro and you’ll see the shaft drops to nearly horizontal in transition.) So, working on shallowing is a pro-level insight that helps amateurs a lot.
Alex Clearwater (Golf Instructor): As mentioned in the drills section, Clearwater advises using training aids like obstacles and angled rods to give golfers an instant feel for the correct swing path
. His perspective is that many amateurs need a visual to understand the over-the-top problem. The moment you put an object down and they hit it, it clicks that “oh, I am coming outside-in.” His two go-to drills: an object by the ball (to prevent outside-in) and the diagonal pool noodle drill to force an inside path. These simple coaching hacks embody the idea that sometimes the easiest way to fix a swing flaw is to make it impossible to do it incorrectly – your body will adjust when given the right constraint.
Player Insights – Jack Nicklaus/Bubba Watson: Not all over-the-top swings are bad – for some players a controlled over-the-top can produce a playable fade. Jack Nicklaus in his prime often set up aiming left and swung slightly left with a controlled fade. Bubba Watson famously plays a big fade. However, the difference is they do it intentionally with control and proper sequence (and a lot of power). For amateurs, trying to emulate that is not a good idea. Even Nicklaus has said that a slice is “the worst fault” for most golfers because it’s usually uncontrolled. The insight here is that even though a fade is a fine shot shape, an unintentional fade from an over-the-top swing is not reliable. So take it from the legends: you’ll play better if you learn a sound swing and choose your shot shape, rather than having a wild over-the-top slice that you have to play. In other words, fix the flaw first; you can always hit a fade later on purpose.
In summary, the experts agree on a few key points: fix your downswing sequence (weight then arms, not shoulders first), shallow the club (drop it inside), and keep your swing synced (arms and body working together). These adjustments will neutralize an over-the-top move. The pros also remind us that a big part of the cure is ingraining the feel of a proper swing. Use their tips and drills to guide your practice. Before long, you’ll start experiencing the crisp, powerful sensation of a well-sequenced downswing – and the ball flight that comes with it.
Recommended Affiliate Products to Help Fix Your Swing
Improving your swing is mostly about practice and technique, but the right tools and resources can accelerate the process. Below are some recommended training aids, books, and equipment that are highly relevant to curing an over-the-top swing. These products can provide feedback, build muscle memory, or offer guidance as you work on your swing. (As an Amazon Associate, the site may earn from qualifying purchases of the products mentioned.)
Training Aids:
Inside Approach Slice Corrector: This is a classic training aid designed specifically to fix an outside-in swing. It’s basically a device you set just outside your ball (similar to our headcover drill, but more structured). If you swing over the top, you’ll hit the foam cushion; a correct swing misses it. The Inside Approach was famously endorsed by Jack Nicklaus years ago, and it remains effective. It gives you instant feedback on your swing path. Many slicers have used this to train a draw swing path. (Available on Amazon.)
Tour Striker PlaneMate: A popular modern training aid, the PlaneMate is a belt-and-band system that physically guides you into a proper backswing and downswing plane. You attach a resistance band from your waist to the club. It encourages you to shallow the club and sync your arm movement with your body turn. When you use the PlaneMate, if you try to come over the top, you’ll feel tension fighting you. It basically forces you to drop the club from the inside. It’s like having a coach hold your hands on the right path. This tool comes with instructional videos and specific drills (many targeted at eliminating the over-the-top move). It’s a bit of an investment, but many golfers rave about how quickly it improved their swing plane and ball flight.
Alignment Sticks: A simple, inexpensive aid that can be used in dozens of ways. For fixing over-the-top, alignment sticks can be your best friend. For example, stick one in the ground at a 45° in front of you to replicate the pool noodle drill. Or lay one on the ground along your target line and practice swinging to the right of it (for right-handers) to train an inside path. You can even stick a rod through the hole of a range basket and create an obstacle to miss. Good alignment stick sets often come with drill manuals. It’s amazing how such a basic tool can provide visual cues and feedback that break your bad habits. And beyond swing path, they’re great for alignment (which is also important in fighting a slice).
Orange Whip Trainer: The Orange Whip is a flexible shaft training tool with a weighted orange ball at the end. While it’s primarily known for improving tempo and rhythm, it’s also very useful for path and sequence. The heavy, whippy motion encourages you to start the downswing smoothly (if you yank from the top, you’ll lose the rhythm completely with this tool). It essentially forces a slight delay and proper sequencing – exactly what you need to stop coming over the top. Many golfers use the Orange Whip to warm up and find that after a few swings, their real swings are more on plane. It’s also great for building the muscle memory of a proper lag and shallow swing.
Books & Resources:
“Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf” (Book): A timeless classic that every golfer should read. You might wonder how a book from the 1950s can help with your slice today, but Hogan’s fundamental teachings about the swing plane are gold. In the book, Hogan describes the concept of an imaginary pane of glass that rests on a golfer’s shoulders and extends down to the ball – the goal is to swing beneath this plane of glass. That image directly addresses coming over the top (which would “shatter the glass”). Hogan provides drills and checkpoints for grip, stance, and swing that promote a proper in-to-out swing path. The book’s illustrations are excellent and help you visualize the correct motions. This is not a quick-fix gimmick book; it’s foundational knowledge that will deepen your understanding of the golf swing and help you diagnose swing faults like over-the-top.
“The Plane Truth for Golfers” by Jim Hardy (Book): Jim Hardy is a respected swing coach who wrote this book specifically about swing plane issues. He breaks golfers into two categories: one-plane and two-plane swings. More importantly, he explains common faults and fixes for each. The over-the-top move is addressed in detail, with drills to promote a better plane. Hardy’s approach might appeal to you if you like more technical insight. He gives clear reasons why a swing gets off plane and plenty of diagrams to guide you back. This book can complement your practice by giving you a framework to understand what you’re doing with the club in 3D space. It’s like having a coach’s wisdom on your bookshelf whenever you need a refresher.
Online Video Lessons/Courses: (Affiliate sites or YouTube series) – While not a physical product, consider investing in a reputable online course focused on fixing a slice or improving swing path. For instance, there are training programs by top instructors (some on platforms like Skillest or Performance Golf) that specifically target over-the-top swings. These often include step-by-step video lessons and practice plans. One example is a Hank Haney slice fix course, or Clay Ballard’s Top Speed Golf program which covers shallowing the club. If you’re a visual learner, a structured video series can be very effective. Make sure to choose one from a qualified instructor and that it addresses swing path and sequence (read reviews to ensure it helped others with the same issue).
Equipment:
Draw-Biased Driver: While the ultimate goal is to fix your swing, using equipment that forgives an over-the-top slice can help you enjoy the game in the meantime. Many manufacturers make “draw” versions of their drivers (often indicated by a letter like D in the model). These drivers have weight placement or face angles that help correct a slice by promoting a draw spin. For example, the TaylorMade SIM2 Max-D or Callaway Rogue ST Max D are built to fight a slice. If you’re currently slicing 30 yards right, one of these clubs might reduce it to 10 yards, turning a disaster into a playable shot. Keep in mind, this is a bandaid, not a cure – but there’s nothing wrong with getting a little equipment help as you work on your swing. Hitting more fairways (even with a slight fade) can boost your confidence while you practice those drills. Just don’t rely solely on the club; use it as a support tool alongside your swing improvements.
Golf Training Apps / Swing Analyzers: For the tech-savvy golfer, a swing analyzer that attaches to your club or glove can provide instant data on your swing path. Some devices, like the SkyPro or Arccos sensors, can tell you if your swing was out-to-in or in-to-out, your clubhead speed, face angle, etc. There are also apps where you can record your swing and get AI or instructor feedback (e.g., V1 Golf or Skillest where you can send swings to a coach). These tools can be like having a personal trainer for your swing. For fixing an over-the-top, you’d specifically look at the swing path metric – you want to see that path number move from positive (outside-in) to around neutral or slightly negative (inside-out) for a right-hander. A few weeks using a swing analyzer to track progress can be very motivating, as you’ll see concrete improvement beyond just ball flight.
When selecting training aids or equipment, ensure they align with the key points we’ve discussed: swing path, plane, and sequence. The above recommendations have been chosen because they directly tackle those areas. Whether you pick up a simple $15 alignment stick or a more advanced gadget, the important thing is consistent practice with feedback. These products provide that feedback and make your practice more effective – which means a quicker fix for your over-the-top swing.
(Always read reviews and maybe consult a pro if you’re unsure about a training aid. And remember, no aid can work miracles without you putting in the effort!)
Real-World Success Stories
Fixing an over-the-top swing isn’t just theory – countless golfers have done it and seen remarkable improvements. Here are a few real-world examples and success stories that illustrate how these techniques can transform a golfer’s game:
From Chronic Slicer to Straight Shooter – John’s Story: John (a mid-handicap amateur) had been battling a slice for 10+ years. His drives would start left and veer hard right, often into the woods or adjacent fairway. Frustrated, he decided to overhaul his swing path. John focused on two drills: the headcover drill and the weight shift drill. The first few range sessions were tough – he even whacked the headcover a few times – but gradually he learned to drop his arms and avoid that obstacle. At the same time, he practiced a slight hip bump to start the downswing instead of his usual shoulder lunge. After about a month of regular practice, John’s swing felt completely different. The ball was no longer peeling off to the right; in fact, he started hitting baby draws! On the course, he went from averaging maybe one or two fairways hit per round to hitting 8-10 fairways. His distance also jumped because he wasn’t glancing across the ball anymore – he was compressing it. John’s handicap dropped from 18 to 12 over the season, largely because his tee shots and long irons were so much more accurate. He says the game is way more fun now: “I actually aim down the middle and expect it to go there, which I never imagined before.”
Rapid Results with Focused Practice – a Reddit Golfer’s Experience: One golfer shared on Reddit how he fixed his over-the-top swing in just two weeks of dedicated practice
. He literally spent 4-5 hours a day doing drills and hitting balls for those two weeks. While not everyone can devote that kind of time, his results were telling – the ingrained habit of coming over the top can be unlearned faster than you think if you really work at it. He reported that by the end of the period, his downswing path was noticeably from the inside and his huge slice was gone. This story highlights that intensive, focused practice with the right drills can yield instant improvement, and with enough repetition, a lasting change. The key was commitment and not allowing the old swing to creep back during that period.
Breaking 80 for the First Time: A writer for GOLF.com recounted how a simple swing thought helped him break 80 for the first time. His issue was the typical over-the-top slice under pressure. The swing thought was a fun one: imagining swinging a frying pan to hit a draw (a tip he found on TikTok). Essentially, he visualized the club face as a frying pan and “flipped” it closed through impact, which forced him to swing from the inside to avoid a slice. The result? He started hitting a consistent little draw and finally shot in the 70s. While the frying pan idea is unconventional, it shows that any swing feel or drill that gets you on the right path can be a game-changer. His success story is evidence that sometimes one aha moment or feel can click, and suddenly you’re playing the best golf of your life. The main point is he conquered the over-the-top move that was holding him back, and it unlocked his potential.
High Handicap to Mid Handicap – Maria’s Journey: Maria was a high-handicap golfer (around 30 handicap) who dreaded hitting woods and driver due to her slice. She decided to take a series of lessons focused on her swing path. With her instructor’s help, she worked on keeping her lead arm more connected (to not overswing), and a drill of “arms down, then turn.” Over a few months, she saw steady progress. Her slices became milder fades, and occasionally straight shots. Encouraged, she practiced more on her own using an old headcover drill her coach gave her. By the next season, Maria’s driving was unrecognizable compared to before – she was hitting consistent 180-yard drives on target, whereas previously even 150-yard drives would go 40 yards off line. Her handicap tumbled into the teens. Perhaps the happiest moment: in a club scramble, she won the “Longest Drive” on a hole – something she never thought possible when she was dubbed the “slice queen.” Maria’s story is a testament that even if you’ve had a bad swing habit for years, you can overcome it with guidance and persistence.
Junior Golfer to College Golfer – A Prodigy Fixes His Flaw: Even talented young golfers can have an over-the-top move early on. One junior golfer (we’ll call him Alex) was very athletic and could muscle the ball out there, but he’d fight a pull-slice under pressure. His coach identified that Alex would get quick and come over the top when trying to hit hard. They implemented a heavy dose of slow-motion swings and the pump drill to retrain his transition. Over one winter, Alex transformed his swing. By spring, he had a beautiful shallowed downswing – videos showed the club dropping under his trail shoulder perfectly. His ball flight became a tight draw, and his consistency went through the roof. Alex not only won several junior tournaments that year, but he also earned a scholarship to play college golf. His coach said the key was that Alex fully bought into slowing down to fix the sequence before speeding up again. This high-level success story demonstrates that fixing an over-the-top isn’t just about eliminating a slice – it can unlock higher ceilings of performance, allowing a player to hit more varied shots and reach the next level of competitive golf.
These stories, from average amateurs to aspiring pros, highlight a common theme: fixing an over-the-top swing changes the game. Golfers gain accuracy, distance, and confidence. While the work put in varies (weeks to months), the end result is the same – the big miss (that slice or pull) becomes far rarer, and the golfer can play more aggressively and enjoyably. If you’re reading this and struggling with the same issue, know that success might be closer than you think. The next success story could be yours, as long as you commit to the process. Envision that future round where you’re standing on the tee aiming confidently down the fairway, unbothered by the hazards right or left, because you know you’ve tamed the over-the-top monster.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What exactly causes an over-the-top swing?
A: An over-the-top swing is caused by a poor sequencing of the downswing – typically, the upper body (shoulders and arms) start the downswing instead of the lower body. Common causes include opening the shoulders too early, throwing the club out with the hands (casting from the top), or improper weight shift (leaning toward the ball instead of shifting toward the target)
. Essentially, anything that makes the club come outside the intended swing plane on the way down will cause an over-the-top move. Often it’s a combination of factors: for example, a golfer might have a backswing that’s too flat or laid off, then reroute over the top, or they might just have a quick transition where they uncoil everything at once from the top. Lack of lower body engagement (not starting with the hips or legs) is a big culprit. The good news is that because the causes are well-known, the fixes (like the drills above) directly address those faults by training a better sequence (i.e. bump the hips, keep the shoulders back, drop the arms). Think of it this way: if you start down correctly (from the ground up), it’s almost impossible to come over the top.
Q: How can I tell if I’m swinging over the top?
A: The ball flight is a big clue. If you consistently slice the ball (curving right for a right-hander) or hit pulls (straight left shots), there’s a good chance you’re coming over the top. Another sign is your divots – if they point left of your target (for a righty) and are deep, that suggests an out-to-in swing path. Visually, an over-the-top swing often looks like a wipe or a chop: the club might come down very steep and you might finish with your weight back on your trail foot. If you have access to a camera, record your swing from behind (down the line view). Pause at the start of your downswing: is the clubhead outside your hands (closer to the ball line than your hands are)? If yes, that’s the over-the-top move in action. You can also look at your hands relative to your shoulder plane – if your hands move away from your body as you start down, that’s a red flag. Many launch monitors or swing analyzer devices can actually measure your swing path in degrees; if it shows a positive number (for a right-hander, meaning out-to-in), you’re over the top. Ultimately, even without gadgets, the ball flight doesn’t lie. A big slice or pull means fix your path. As you work on the fixes, you should start seeing the ball fly straighter or even with a baby draw – that’s how you know you’re no longer swinging over the top.
Q: Can I really fix an over-the-top swing on my own, or do I need a coach?
A: You can absolutely fix it on your own with informed practice, but you need to be disciplined and possibly use some tools (mirror, camera, training aids) for feedback. Many golfers have cured their slice by reading articles (like this one!), watching YouTube tutorials, and drilling the right moves. The drills provided here are commonly given by instructors, so you’re essentially self-coaching with proven methods. That said, a coach can accelerate the process by providing instant feedback, catching nuances you might miss, and tailoring the fix to your specific swing. If you’re someone who struggles to feel what you’re doing wrong, a single lesson where a pro physically helps you feel the correct motion can be invaluable. But if lessons aren’t feasible, don’t worry – plenty of players have self-corrected. Use your smartphone to record swings, compare them to models online, and utilize inexpensive aids (like an alignment stick gate) to guide you. It might take a bit longer on your own simply because it’s trial and error to find what clickS for you. If you go the solo route, be patient and methodical: work on one aspect at a time (e.g., weight shift first, then path) and celebrate the small improvements (one less slice today than yesterday is progress!). If frustration builds, investing in even one or two lessons can provide a breakthrough. There’s no shame in seeking help, but it’s also very satisfying to DIY your swing fix. Either way, it’s definitely fixable.
Q: How long does it take to stop coming over the top?
A: The timeframe can vary widely – from almost instant (for some, one tip immediately fixes the issue) to several weeks or a few months of practice. It depends on how ingrained your current swing is and how diligently you practice the new moves. Some golfers experience an “aha” moment where a certain feel or drill immediately straightens out their ball flight. For example, you might do the headcover drill and suddenly hit a nice draw on your first try – proving you can do it right. However, making that second-nature can take more repetitions. As a general guideline, if you dedicate practice time to this specifically, you might see noticeable improvement in a couple of practice sessions (your slice starts to lessen). To fully eliminate the over-the-top habit, give yourself a few weeks of regular practice. The golfer who fixed it in 2 weeks by practicing 4 hours a day is an extreme case
– most of us can’t do that. But if you can invest even 30 minutes, three times a week to focused drills, you should see significant changes within a month. Remember that progress might not be linear. You could have a breakthrough after one range session, then a mini-regression, etc. Stick with it. One day you’ll step up to the ball and hit a beautiful straight shot and realize, “Hey, I didn’t even think about coming over the top – and I didn’t!” That’s when it’s fixed. Even after that, occasionally revisit the drills to reinforce good habits. Muscle memory is strong, but old habits can sneak back under pressure, so keep the new habit stronger with refreshers.
Q: Will fixing my over-the-top swing help cure my slice completely?
A: In most cases, yes – because an over-the-top swing is one of the primary causes of a slice. A slice happens when the clubface is open to the path and usually the path is glancing across the ball (outside-in). By fixing the path (no longer over the top), you eliminate the glancing blow and give yourself a much better chance to have the face and path in harmony. Many golfers find that as soon as they start swinging from the inside, their slice reduces dramatically. However, note that a slice is also influenced by clubface angle. If you come over the top and have an open face, that’s a big slice. If you fix the path but leave the face open, you might still get a fade or mild slice. So you might need to also check your grip and face control. Often, though, when people stop coming over the top, their clubface at impact improves too (because they’re not desperately trying to correct mid-swing). You might naturally start releasing the club better. But if you still see a rightward curve after fixing the path, work on closing the face a bit – stronger grip, or the feeling of the toe of the club releasing through impact like that “frying pan” drill. The ideal end result is an inside-out path with a square (or slightly closed) face to that path, producing a draw or straight shot. Fixing the over-the-top gets you halfway there by fixing the path; make sure the clubface is square and you’ll kiss the slice goodbye. And a side benefit: fixing an over-the-top often fixes contact issues, so you might also stop hitting those weak pop-ups or fat shots that sometimes accompany a slice. It’s a comprehensive upgrade to your ball striking.
Q: I’ve tried these drills and still slice – what am I doing wrong?
A: If you’re still slicing despite trying drills, we need to troubleshoot a bit: First, ensure you’re doing the drills correctly (and frequently enough). For example, with the headcover drill – are you truly placing the cover in the right spot and actually missing it? Some folks cheat it by putting it too far away. It should be close enough that an over-the-top move will hit it. If you never hit the headcover but still slice, maybe the issue is more the face angle (as mentioned above). Double-check your grip and wrist positions; a very weak grip or cupped lead wrist can leave the face open. Next, consider your pivot and balance. Sometimes a slice can persist if you’re falling back (weight on the rear foot at impact). That can cause an open face and weak flight even if path improves. Work on finishing with your weight on your front foot, back heel off the ground. Another angle: are you perhaps coming too far inside-out now and hitting push-slices? It can happen – you swing inside-out but leave face open, the ball starts right and curves right (that’s a push-slice). The cure for that is to get the face closing (again grip or forearm rotation). It might be worth seeing a pro for a quick session or using a mirror to see if there’s something small you’re missing. It could even be alignment – some golfers align way left to compensate for a slice, then when they swing in-to-out the ball goes straight right. Make sure you adjust your alignment to neutral as your swing changes. Lastly, be honest about practice: if you only tried the drills a couple times, you need more reps. However, if you’ve practiced diligently and something still isn’t clicking, a lesson or using technology (launch monitor) can pinpoint the issue. Don’t get discouraged – sometimes the final piece of the puzzle is small, and once you find it, the slice will be gone. Keep experimenting with different feels (maybe one cue resonates more than another). The path to improvement isn’t identical for everyone, so it might be a specific thought like “tuck my right elbow” or “swing to right field” that finally does it for you. Keep at it and you’ll get there.
Q: Is it okay to intentionally play a fade instead of fixing an over-the-top?
A: There’s nothing inherently wrong with playing a fade – many pros play a fade. But there’s a big difference between a controlled fade and a result-of-a-swing-flaw slice. If you intentionally play a fade, you still ideally want a sound swing (usually slightly left path with face a bit less left). Those pros who fade often still start from a good position and just swing a hair left with a slightly open face. They are not coming severely over the top and slicing weakly; they are compressing the ball and it just falls to the right. If your fade is actually a disguised over-the-top slice (losing a ton of distance and consistency), you’re leaving improvement on the table. A proper swing will allow you to hit any shape – fade or draw – by choice. Relying on an over-the-top fade often limits you; under pressure it might become a big slice, or in the wind it could really hurt you. Also, an over-the-top swing tends to be steep, which isn’t great for your joints long-term and can be less consistent strike-wise. So even if you prefer a left-to-right ball flight, you’ll benefit from learning to swing on plane and then just adjusting face/path slightly for a fade. In short: fix the fundamental flaw, then choose your shot shape. There have been players like Bruce Lietzke who famously played a fade their whole life and never tried to draw – but note, he had a repetitive swing he grooved; it wasn’t a massive over-the-top move, just a consistent fade pattern. For most amateurs, learning to draw the ball (or at least hit straight) is a huge advantage. It’s fine if after fixing your swing you decide a fade is your comfortable shot – just make sure it’s a healthy fade coming from a position of control, not from a fault. And if you can hit a draw and a fade on command, even better – that’s a skill that comes once the over-the-top issue is resolved and you have a neutral swing to work from.
Q: Do any swing thoughts or mental cues help prevent coming over the top?
A: Yes! Oftentimes a simple swing thought can make a big difference. Different cues work for different people, so you might have to experiment to find one that clicks. Here are a few popular ones:
“Swing to Right Field / Throw the Club to Right Field.” This is a classic for right-handers (reverse for lefties). It means feel like you are swinging the club out toward right field of a baseball diamond. It encourages an inside-out path and delays the shoulder rotation.
“Keep the Back to the Target.” Try to feel that your back (or chest) stays pointed at the target a bit longer as you start the downswing. This is a way of saying “don’t spin open so fast.” It helps the arms drop before the shoulders rotate. Some golfers even think “back at target at impact” (not literally happening, but the feel prevents an early unwinding).
“Drop the Arms.” A simple cue where at transition you think only about your arms dropping straight down. Not out, not forward – just down. This pairs well with a thought of “hips bump” if you can do two things: hips bump a bit, arms drop. If you do those, the club will fall inside.
“Under, Under, Under.” This was a tip from an instructor telling a player to feel like the club swings under whatever visual they had (like under a stick, under a shelf). Repeating “under” during the downswing can reinforce not coming over.
“Skip a Stone / Sidearm Throw.” Imagining you’re skipping a stone on a lake with your trailing hand can emulate the proper motion – your arm will naturally come from the inside with a leading edge. This is a great analogy; many people do that motion easily but struggle in golf until they connect the two.
“Wait for it…now!” This is more of a transition tempo thought. If you tend to rush from the top, tell yourself to “wait” at the top for a split second. Then “now” to initiate downswing. That little pause can work wonders (think of Hideki Matsuyama’s deliberate pause as an extreme example).
Focus on Impact Position: Sometimes thinking of where you want to be at impact (for instance, hips open, hands leading, club from inside) can subconsciously adjust your downswing. The body will try to get to that pose. It’s a bit abstract, but some find it useful.
Remember, swing thoughts should be simple and ideally one at a time. Don’t overload your brain over the ball. Try one cue for several swings; if it doesn’t help, try a different one next time. When you find one that produces a good result, stick with it for a while and use it on the course. Over time, as the new move becomes ingrained, you might not need a conscious thought at all. It’ll just happen. But early on, the right thought can bridge the gap between understanding and executing.
Conclusion
Over-the-top swings may be common, but they’re not a life sentence to slicing and frustration. With the right understanding and practice, any golfer can eliminate this swing fault. Let’s recap the key takeaways:
Recognize the Issue: An over-the-top swing is when your downswing comes from outside the target line, often leading to slices and weak contact. It’s usually caused by starting the swing with your arms/shoulders rather than your lower body and a proper weight shift. Understanding this is the first step to fixing it.
Drills are Your Best Friend: Use the step-by-step drills provided – like the Headcover Drill and Pool Noodle Drill – to retrain your swing path. These drills give you instant feedback and literally force you into better positions. Practice them regularly; even a few minutes a day can start to groove a new motor pattern. Make sure to do them correctly (no cheating the setup!), and be patient as you work them into your full swing.
Avoid Common Pitfalls: Don’t trade one problem for another. Avoid overcompensating with an excessively inside swing, don’t keep swinging from the top out of habit, and remember to stay calm and not overswing. It’s about technique, not brute force. Keep that lower body leading and maintain your tempo. If things go astray, revisit the basics – grip, posture, and the drills – to get back on track.
Leverage Expert Advice: Take confidence in the fact that pros and coaches have solved this issue countless times. Weight shift, shallowing the club, keeping the arms synced – these are all golden nuggets from experts that we can apply. If they can do it under major championship pressure, you can do it in your Saturday foursome! Don’t hesitate to emulate the feels and thoughts that worked for them.
Use Tools and Aids: Sometimes a little help goes a long way. Whether it’s an alignment stick drill, a training aid, or even a buddy watching your swing, use available resources to reinforce the right move. The goal is to make your practice as productive as possible. It’s satisfying to practice with a purpose and then see the results on the course.
Consistent Practice and Perseverance: Perhaps most importantly, commit to the process. Rewiring your golf swing might feel odd at first – that’s okay. Embrace the temporary discomfort because it means you’re changing. Every great golfer has gone through swing changes and come out better for it. If you put in the effort, you will improve. And when you hit that first pure shot that flies high and straight (or with a gentle draw), you’ll know every bit of work was worth it.
In conclusion, fixing an over-the-top golf swing can truly be a game-changer. Imagine stepping up to the tee with confidence that you won’t hear that dreaded “slice click” of the ball veering away. Picture hitting approach shots that start on line and stay on line. That’s within reach by applying the tips from this guide. Practice with purpose, be patient with yourself, and celebrate the small wins along the way. Golf is a journey of continuous improvement – and you’ve just taken a big step by tackling one of the most common swing flaws. Now get out there and work on those drills! Your future self, piping one down the middle, will thank you. Happy golfing and enjoy the sweeter sound of solid, straight shots!
