If you’ve been searching YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or forums trying to figure out why you’re hooking the golf ball, you’re not alone. Many players feel lost when it comes to understanding their golf swing. That’s where I come in—to help you make sense of your swing and give you actionable steps to improve your golf game. In this article, we’ll break down the three main causes of a hook: clubface, stalling, and path. Understanding these factors will empower you to identify the root cause of your hook and take control of your swing.
The clubface plays a critical role in determining your ball flight. A closed clubface—relative to the path—is often the main reason for a hook. Here are some common ways this happens:
✔️ Grip Issues: A very strong grip can lead to a closed clubface.
✔️ Address Position: Starting with the face slightly closed at address sets the stage for a hook.
✔️ Wrist Angles: Flexing or bowing the lead wrist shuts the face, requiring compensations like exaggerated forward shaft lean or opening the face during impact.
If your clubface is closed, understanding how to neutralize it is key. For instance, players with a bowed wrist must learn to manage the handle position and trail shoulder movement to avoid over-rotation of the face.
Stalling occurs when the body slows or stops rotating through the shot. This lack of rotation allows the clubhead to release prematurely, which closes the clubface and often leads to a hook. Why do players stall? Here are some common reasons:
✔️ Loss of Balance: When players feel out of balance, they may unconsciously slow down.
✔️ Over-the-Top Swing: A steep path can cause players to stall as they attempt to compensate.
✔️ Face Position: If the face is open during the swing, stalling can be a way to close it—but this often overcorrects and results in a hook.
For a consistent swing, you need to maintain rotation through impact. Eliminating the stall will help keep your face and path in sync.
The path of your swing determines the curvature of the ball. A hook occurs when the clubface is closed relative to the path. This can happen with any path:
✔️ In-to-Out: The ball starts right and overhooks back left.
✔️ Over-the-Top: The ball starts left and hooks further left.
✔️ On Plane: Even with a neutral path, a closed face or a stall can still create a hook.
Understanding that the ball starts where the face is pointing and curves based on the path will help you diagnose your ball flight. Even a technically perfect path can lead to a hook if other factors, like face angle or body rotation, are off.
Now that you understand why hooks happen, it’s time to make the necessary adjustments. Addressing clubface, maintaining body rotation, and refining your path can significantly reduce hooks and give you better control over your shots.
If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, I’ve created a program that can help. George Gankas Golf offers access to thousands of instructional videos and a forum where you can post your swing for feedback from experienced coaches. These resources are designed to help you understand your swing and develop the skills to play your best golf.
Whether you’re dealing with a persistent hook or just want to improve your overall game, the right guidance can make all the difference. Visit George Gankas Golf to explore our programs and start your journey to better golf today. Take control of your swing and play the game you’ve always dreamed of. Let’s fix that hook and unlock your full potential!
