Bryan Seton explains how improper distance to the golf ball at setup directly causes hooks and slices by altering the clubhead's lie angle. He demonstrates a simple 'natural hang' technique with the trail hand to help golfers find their ideal distance for a square clubface.
Standing too far from the ball causes the club's toe to lift, which tends to shut the face and cause hooks.
Standing too close to the ball causes the heel to lift, keeping the face open and leading to slices.
Correct your distance by standing relaxed and letting your right hand (trail hand) hang naturally as a guide.
Always check setup fundamentals like posture and distance before attempting to fix your swing path.
Go deeper
The slice — Causes, drills and coaches for this miss