Smart Golf

Here is your Golf Tip of the Week!

Hit the Ball, Not the Ground

If you are getting a high and weak flight you might be hitting the ground before the ball. Here’s a quick fix: Secure a scorecard three inches behind the ball. Then practice your swing until you miss the scorecard entirely and get a stronger contact with the ball.

Hitting High?

Are you pulling in your arms just before impact and slicing the ball? Practice taking your eyes off the ball just before impact and looking toward the target. Your hips and chest will rotate through impact and your arms will maintain full extension. – Tip from Golf Digest.

Nerves on the Backswing?

If you are tense and tend to freeze up just before hitting the ball, concentrate on your swing and focus on making a full, rhythmic motion to the top. One expert suggests turning your lead shoulder behind the ball to load your right side, shifting forward as you swing down. Take your time; the ball will still be there. Tip from Golf Digest.

Stretch Before Practice 

A good stretch before taking a practice swing can relieve muscle tension or joint stiffness. Hold the club along your shoulders and as you go back, pull with your right hand; when coming through, pull with the left hand. Repeat several times then reverse the action. 

Keep Your Hands Steady for a Better Shot

Avoid making your hands flip over; keep your swing free-flowing and smooth. Use your body to direct the flight of the ball by focusing on how your body is rotating during your shot.

 Stop the Pop-up 

The pop-up shot often results from a narrow stance and a steep swing. To fix it, try widening your stance and your swing. Keep in mind that you want to maintain the position of the ball relative to your left foot. Widen your stance by moving your right foot instead of your left.

How to Hit a Flop Shot Over the Bunker 

All serious golfers must have the capacity to get up and down from difficult situations. This difficult shot requires you to be able to hit the ball high and land it soft with minimal roll. Make sure there’s ample grass under the ball and choose the highest lofted wedge in your bag. Like a bunker shot, you should set up with an open stance and a very open clubface, with the ball played forward of center. Move your hands quickly so that the club head is ahead of the ball and keep them close to your core, hinging at the wrist. Accelerate through the shot and finish high. Tip courtesy of NCCGA.org. 

Golf Balls Affected by Temperature 

Did you know that golf balls are affected by the ambient temps? A warm golf ball has more resiliency, which results in more speed and rotation. When temperatures drop, golf balls get harder and require more speed to go the distance. Some golfers keep different balls on hand to adapt to the weather while others keep balls in an inside pocket to keep them warm and bouncy. Whatever you do, pay attention to the weather and adjust your play accordingly.

Improve Your Golf Posture

Bad posture can cramp your swing and cause aches and pains. To improve it, find a mirror and follow these simple steps:

1. Soften your knees.
2. Hinge forward from the hip, keeping your spine straight and sucking in your stomach to help your hips push back. Avoid rounding or arching your lower back. If you’re struggling, stand with your back close to the wall and push your rear out until it touches the wall.
3. Feel yourself balance over the laces of your shoes with your hands hanging right in front of your toes.
4. Now swing!

Reach For the Driver

Drivers have exploded in size in recent years, making them bigger, longer, and much more forgiving. The next time you’re faced with a choice between your driver and a fairway wood on a tight hole, consider reaching for the driver. You could choke down on the grip, tee the ball lower, or even make a ¾ swing to mimic a fairway wood while still taking advantage of the driver’s forgiving nature.

Tip courtesy of A.J. Bonar & Ryan Noll | Golf Tips Mag

Create a Snap In Your Swing