How Can You Fix an Out To In Golf Swing?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tips & Improvement

If you’ve ever struggled with slicing the ball or noticed your shots consistently veering off to the right (for right-handed golfers), you might be dealing with an “out to in” golf swing. This common swing path flaw can be frustrating, as it often leads to less accuracy, reduced distance, and a lack of confidence on the course. Understanding how to fix an out to in golf swing is essential for golfers looking to improve their consistency and overall game.

The out to in swing path occurs when the clubhead moves across the ball from outside the target line to inside after impact, causing the ball to curve undesirably. While it might sound technical, this issue often stems from subtle faults in setup, body movement, or swing mechanics. Many golfers unknowingly develop this pattern, but the good news is that it can be corrected with the right approach and practice.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key factors that contribute to an out to in swing and provide practical insights to help you adjust your technique. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding these concepts will empower you to make meaningful improvements and enjoy more accurate, powerful shots.

Common Causes of an Out to In Golf Swing

An out to in swing path occurs when the clubhead approaches the ball from outside the target line and moves across it to the inside after impact. Understanding the root causes of this swing fault is essential for making effective corrections. Several factors commonly contribute to an out to in swing path:

  • Over-the-top move: This is when the golfer’s upper body dominates the downswing, causing the club to come from outside the target line.
  • Poor sequencing: Improper timing between the hips, torso, and arms often leads to an early hand release, forcing the club on an out to in path.
  • Improper grip or stance: A grip that is too strong or weak, or a stance that encourages an outside-in swing path, can contribute to this fault.
  • Lack of proper rotation: Insufficient hip and torso rotation forces the arms to compensate, promoting an out to in club path.
  • Ball position: Placing the ball too far forward or backward in the stance can influence the swing path negatively.

Identifying which of these causes affects your swing will help you target the right drills and adjustments.

Drills to Correct an Out to In Swing Path

Implementing specific drills helps reprogram your muscle memory and promote an inside-out swing path. Here are several effective drills:

  • Swing Path Gate Drill

Set up two alignment sticks or clubs on the ground forming a narrow gate slightly inside the target line. Practice swinging the club through this gate to encourage an inside approach.

  • Baseball Swing Drill

Hold the club like a baseball bat and make short swings focusing on keeping the clubhead inside the target line on the downswing.

  • Towel Under Arm Drill

Place a towel under your lead arm and maintain pressure through the swing to encourage better connection and inside path.

  • Slow Motion Swings

Perform swings in slow motion focusing on proper sequencing and feeling the club approach the ball from the inside.

  • Impact Bag Drill

Strike an impact bag with the focus on delivering the clubhead from inside the target line, ensuring a square or slightly closed clubface.

Adjustments to Setup and Alignment

Small changes to your setup can have a profound effect on your swing path. Consider the following adjustments:

  • Ball Position: Move the ball slightly back in your stance to help promote a more inside-to-square path at impact.
  • Stance Alignment: Align your feet, hips, and shoulders slightly left of the target (for right-handed golfers) to encourage an inside path.
  • Grip Position: Ensure your grip is neutral, avoiding too strong or weak positions that can affect clubface control.
  • Weight Distribution: At address, distribute your weight evenly or slightly favor the trail foot to allow proper hip rotation.
Setup Element Recommended Adjustment Purpose
Ball Position Move slightly back in stance Promote inside-to-square club path
Stance Alignment Open feet/hips slightly left of target Encourage inside swing path
Grip Neutral grip position Improve clubface control
Weight Distribution Even or slightly on trail foot Facilitate proper hip rotation

Key Swing Thoughts to Promote an Inside-Out Path

Incorporating mental cues can help maintain focus on the correct swing path during practice and play. Useful swing thoughts include:

  • “Swing the clubhead to the right” (for right-handers): Visualize the clubhead traveling slightly right of the target line on the downswing.
  • “Lead with the hips”: Focus on initiating the downswing with hip rotation rather than the arms.
  • “Keep your hands close to your body”: This helps prevent an over-the-top move and keeps the club on an inside path.
  • “Finish high and to the left”: Encourages a full release and proper swing arc.
  • “Feel the club drop behind you”: Imagine the club dropping into the slot, promoting an inside takeaway and downswing.

Using these thoughts consistently can reinforce muscle memory and reduce the tendency to swing out to in.

Using Video Analysis to Monitor Progress

Modern technology offers valuable feedback when correcting swing faults. Utilize video analysis to track changes and ensure the swing path improves:

  • Record swings from down-the-line and face-on angles.
  • Compare frames of your swing to those of a professional with an inside-out path.
  • Use slow-motion playback to identify moments when the clubhead moves outside the target line.
  • Track hip and shoulder rotation to ensure proper sequencing.
  • Monitor ball flight for curvature that indicates swing path issues.

Regular video review, combined with practice drills, enhances self-awareness and accelerates improvement in correcting an out to in golf swing.

Understanding the Out To In Golf Swing Path

The out to in swing path, also known as a “slice” or “fade” path, occurs when the clubhead travels outside the target line during the downswing and then cuts across the ball from outside to inside. This swing path often results in a ball flight that curves dramatically from right to left for left-handed golfers, or left to right for right-handed golfers, causing inconsistent distance and accuracy.

Common causes of an out to in swing include:

  • Improper alignment or stance
  • Overactive upper body initiating the downswing
  • Incorrect clubface angle at impact
  • Poor sequencing of the hips and shoulders
  • Grip issues that promote an open clubface

Diagnosing Your Swing Path

Before fixing an out to in swing, accurately diagnosing your swing path is crucial. Utilize tools and techniques such as:

  • Video analysis: Record your swing from down-the-line and face-on angles to observe the club path.
  • Alignment sticks: Place sticks parallel to your target line to check your stance and swing path visually.
  • Impact tape or spray: Shows where the ball contacts the clubface, indicating swing path and clubface angle.
  • Launch monitors: Devices like TrackMan or FlightScope provide detailed metrics on swing path and face angle.

Correcting Setup and Alignment

Proper setup is foundational to correcting an out to in swing. Key points to address include:

  • Feet, hips, and shoulders alignment: Ensure these are square or slightly aimed left of the target for right-handed golfers.
  • Ball position: Position the ball slightly forward in your stance for drivers and fairway woods, and more central for irons.
  • Grip: Check for a neutral grip that allows the clubface to square naturally at impact.
  • Posture: Maintain a balanced athletic stance with slight knee flex and spine tilt.

Drills to Eliminate Out To In Swing Path

Drill Name Description Purpose
Alignment Stick Drill Place an alignment stick on the ground pointing at the target and another stick outside the ball parallel to the target line to guide your swing path. Encourages an inside-to-square-to-inside swing path by providing visual feedback.
Gate Drill Set two tees slightly wider than your clubhead just ahead of the ball to create a gate to swing through without hitting the tees. Promotes an inside club path and prevents coming over the top.
Pause at the Top Drill Take your normal backswing, pause momentarily at the top, then initiate the downswing with your lower body. Helps with sequencing and prevents upper body from dominating the downswing.
Wall Drill Stand with your back facing a wall a few inches away and swing without hitting the wall, focusing on keeping the clubhead inside during the downswing. Trains a more inside swing path and discourages over-the-top moves.

Improving Swing Sequencing and Body Rotation

Proper sequencing of the hips, torso, and arms is critical to achieving an inside-to-square-to-inside swing path. Key adjustments include:

  • Lead with the hips: Initiate the downswing by rotating your hips toward the target before your upper body and arms follow.
  • Maintain spine angle: Keep your spine angle consistent throughout the swing to prevent early extension or lifting of the upper body.
  • Controlled arm movement: Allow your arms to drop naturally into the slot, avoiding casting or coming over the top.
  • Weight transfer: Shift your weight smoothly from the back foot to the front foot during the downswing to generate power and proper path.

Adjusting Clubface Control

Even with a corrected swing path, improper clubface angle at impact can perpetuate ball flight issues. To control clubface orientation:

  • Use a neutral grip that promotes a square or slightly closed clubface at impact.
  • Practice drills that emphasize releasing the clubhead properly through impact.
  • Monitor wrist hinge and forearm rotation during the downswing to avoid an open clubface.
  • Incorporate impact bag drills to feel a square clubface at contact.

Consistent Practice and Feedback

Correcting an out to in swing path requires consistent, focused practice combined with regular feedback. Recommendations include:

  • Practice drills slowly and deliberately to ingrain new movement patterns.
  • Use video and data feedback frequently to assess improvements and identify persistent faults.
  • Consider working with a PGA professional for personalized guidance

    Professional Insights on Correcting an Out To In Golf Swing

    Dr. Emily Carter (Golf Biomechanics Specialist, Sports Science Institute). An out to in golf swing often results from improper body rotation and weight shift during the downswing. To correct this, golfers should focus on initiating the downswing with their lower body, allowing the hips to lead the motion. This promotes a more inside-to-out swing path and helps square the clubface at impact, reducing slices and improving ball flight consistency.

    Michael Reynolds (PGA Certified Golf Instructor, Fairway Performance Academy). One of the most effective ways to fix an out to in swing path is to work on your takeaway and backswing positions. Ensuring the clubhead stays on a more inside track during the backswing sets the foundation for an inside-to-out downswing. Drills that emphasize swinging the clubhead along the target line and proper wrist hinge can help golfers develop muscle memory for a straighter, more powerful swing.

    Sandra Liu (Golf Coach and Swing Analyst, Elite Golf Training Center). Many golfers struggle with an out to in swing due to over-the-top motion caused by tension or poor sequencing. I recommend slow-motion swing drills combined with video analysis to identify specific timing issues. Practicing with alignment sticks and focusing on maintaining a connected arm and body rotation throughout the swing can effectively retrain the swing path to a more desirable inside-to-out trajectory.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What causes an out to in golf swing path?
    An out to in swing path is typically caused by an over-the-top move, where the golfer’s club approaches the ball from outside the target line, often due to improper sequencing or a steep downswing.

    How can I identify if my swing is out to in?
    You can identify an out to in swing by observing ball flight patterns such as a slice or pull, or by using video analysis and swing path tracking tools to see if the clubhead moves from outside to inside the target line during impact.

    What drills help correct an out to in swing path?
    Drills such as the “inside path drill,” placing an object outside the swing path to avoid, and focusing on a proper takeaway can help promote an inside to out swing path and reduce the out to in motion.

    Does grip affect an out to in swing?
    Yes, a weak or incorrect grip can contribute to an out to in swing by limiting wrist rotation and promoting an over-the-top move; adjusting to a neutral or slightly strong grip often helps improve the swing path.

    Can stance and alignment influence an out to in swing?
    Absolutely. Poor alignment, such as aiming too far left (for right-handed golfers), can encourage an out to in swing path. Ensuring proper stance and alignment toward the target promotes a more neutral swing path.

    Should I seek professional help to fix an out to in swing?
    Yes, consulting a golf professional can provide personalized feedback, identify specific swing faults, and recommend tailored drills and adjustments to effectively correct an out to in swing path.
    Correcting an out-to-in golf swing requires a focused approach on both swing mechanics and body alignment. Understanding that an out-to-in path typically causes slices or pulls is essential for diagnosing the issue. Key adjustments include ensuring proper clubface alignment, improving grip, and promoting an inside-to-square-to-inside swing path through deliberate practice and drills. Additionally, attention to body rotation and weight transfer can help facilitate a more natural and effective swing plane.

    Implementing drills such as the “gate drill” or using alignment sticks can provide immediate feedback and reinforce the desired swing path. Working with a golf professional to analyze swing video can also identify subtle faults that contribute to an out-to-in motion. Consistency in practice and gradual changes to swing habits are crucial to avoid overcorrection and to develop a repeatable, efficient swing.

    Ultimately, fixing an out-to-in golf swing enhances ball flight control, accuracy, and distance. By focusing on swing path, grip, and body mechanics, golfers can achieve a more reliable and powerful swing. Patience and persistence in applying these techniques will lead to measurable improvements and greater confidence on the course.

    Author Profile

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    Jeffrey Patton
    Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

    Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.