How to Stop Topping the Golf Ball

This article will help those who top the golf ball or, when the golf club comes in too high, hits the ball’s equator. The ball might run along the ground or pops up just a few feet in front. I will show you exactly how to eliminate the top shot.

 The problem 

The number one fundamental of golf is creating a consistent and predictable golf club impact while striking the ball. There are two main shots average recreational golfers struggle with more than anything – a shot where they hit too much ground or don’t hit enough.

 The golf club comes in too high resulting in a thin shot when you hit the equator of the ball or a top shot when you hit right on top of the golf ball. As a result, the ball pops up in front of you, which is pretty frustrating.

The solution

Here is the drill:

1. Place the ball in the correct position, and to do this, use the following guideline.

• Put a “stick” on the ground, vertical to the club path, representing the center of your stance.

• As a general point of reference, use the clubhead and measure a comfortable club head distance between the inside of your front foot, left foot in case of a right-hander, and where the ball position would be located. 

• With this ball position, make a central pivot and strike the golf ball towards the center of the club, and it will help it get up in the air.

2. Maintain a stable movement of your body throughout the backswing and the downswing. Don’t bend sideways; the bottom of the arc would be too far behind or ahead, depending upon your bend. Swaying will change the ball position for you; even if you place the ball in the correct position, it will likely hit the top of the ball, causing a thin shot.

3.  Make a relatively centered turn or pivot in the backswing and the downswing to help eliminate the top shots. 

4. The third is about the structure of your arms. Keep them straight, head still, and maintain a centered turn. This way, your arms will stay long from the address position. Keep these arms as long as possible in the backswing with the proper grip. You will notice a natural bend on the back arm as you get to the top, and as it moves back down and through the golf ball, they’ll straighten again.

Summary

So to stop topping the golf ball, you need to get the ball position right, one clubhead inside the lead foot, you need to maintain a still head in the backswing, and you must keep the arms long throughout the entirety of the motion.

Watch the full video here: