Topping is defined as hitting the ball above its equator. This can be a devastating problem for the high handicapper. Besides lost distance, almost anything can happen to the shot. 'Whiffing' (missing the ball completely) is an example of the problem at its worst. Common Causes: jerking the head up on the downswing, excessive lateral body movement toward the target on the downswing, crouching too much at address, ball teed too low, and trying to 'kill' the ball (common cause with low handicappers). Curing Topped Shots: Most topped shots are the result of changing the swing arc. In other words, the club follows a different path on the downswing than it did on the backswing.

Topped shots are caused by hitting the ball above its equator. Tee your drives so that one-half of the ball is visible above the clubhead.

Tee the ball inside the left heel.

Stand more upright if you find yourself crouching too much at address. Too much crouch in the set up will cause you to compensate by jerking your head up on the downswing and topping the shot.

Trying to 'overpower' the shot sometimes causes the head to lift at impact. Center the swing around your head and concentrate on a smooth, relaxed swing.