Banana Ball is otherwise known as a splice. It is a shot that that follows a curving path either to the left or right. The curving path is similar to the shape of banana, hence, the term banana ball. This type of shot leads to a misaligned club face as a result of having a side spin that was imparted during impact. An outside-in swing path is also a result of a side spin.
Avoiding Banana Ball
To avoid banana ball shots, correcting the position of the body and practicing the right technique is very important. One of the causes of splice is having an open club face. To correct this mistake, a golfer will need to use a stronger grip that allows the club face to close at impact. Another reason for banana ball is having a faulty swing path. Practicing a drill without necessarily hitting a ball is advisable. A player can set a normal stance, picture an imaginary line between its feet and practice swinging the club. To make it easier, a player can put a stake, 5 yards from its foot, along the ground where the imaginary line is. The stake should be positioned base on the player, either he or she is right handed or left handed.
Techniques in Correcting Banana Ball
No professional or amateur golfer wants to experience a banana ball. However, if the player can control its left to right shot, otherwise called a fade, this movement can be effective. The player needs to focus its swing on the arms and wrist movement must be minimal. This will enable the player to avoid splice and turn it into a fade. When the player strikes the ball, the left side must be firm while the right hand place straight at the target. The result will be a high and upright follow-through. Another technique is to play a draw, which is opposite of fade. The shot movement is controlled from its right to left. To make sure that the top grip is pointed at the right side of the target line, golfers should practice inside-out swing shots.