How do I stop coming over the top?

What causes it

Over the top means the club moves outward and steeply from the top, then cuts across the ball. It produces pulls, slices and the occasional fat shot. Common causes are starting the downswing with the shoulders or arms, an inside takeaway that you correct with a loop, and a backswing that is too long for your mobility.

How golfers fix it

Justin Rose's feel versus real drill from PGA Tour is the standout, recommended by 22 golfers with 3 saying it fixed their over-the-top move; it works on hand path and sequencing. Jim Waldron's Arm Swing Illusion has 16 recommendations for keeping arms and chest working together. Athletic Motion Golf's shallowing video, recommended by 12 golfers, compares pro and amateur transitions. Titleist's explainer is also recommended by 15. Golfers work on:

• Starting the downswing with the lower body.
• Letting the trail elbow drop toward the hip.
• Feeling the club drop behind you before you turn.

Common mistakes

Swinging from the inside by force makes a block or hook. Another mistake is working on the transition without checking the takeaway, which may be the real cause. Slow-motion reps help far more than hitting balls at full speed with the same pattern. Finally, a steep shoulder turn at the top can cause the same move, so check that your torso turns around your spine and not tilts upward.

Written with AI from the lessons and recommendations above. Not a substitute for a coach.