The shank is one of the most destructive swing faults in golf. At impact, the ball contacts the heel or shank of the club and squirts low and to the right of the target line. Common Causes: Standing too close to the ball (common), flattened horizontal swing plane (common), head movement, weight 'forward' on the toes at impact, backswing too far inside, standing too far from the ball (less common). Curing the shank: If you have shanking problems, your swing needs major surgery. Understand the mechanics of this swing fault. On the downswing the clubhead is thrown outside the normal swing arc.

Shanks are caused by the club striking the ball on the heel or 'shank' of the club.

Two common causes of a shanked shot are standing too close to the ball and swinging on too flat a swing plane.

Swing on a more vertical plane. The club should point to the target at the top of the backswing. If you shank the ball and spin out of your shots, think of keeping your weight more to the back of your feet.