Driver Heeled Shots

A heeled shot occurs when contact is made with the inner part (heel) of the clubface, closest to the hosel. For right-handed golfers, this typically results in a weak shot that starts left and can slice back to the right. Understanding and correcting heel strikes is crucial for developing consistency and maximizing distance with your driver.

Common Causes:

• Standing Too Far: Positioning yourself too far from the ball forces you to reach and catch the heel.
• Early Extension: Standing up or thrusting hips toward the ball during downswing.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Staying too much on the back foot through impact.
• Incorrect Setup: Arms hanging too close to body at address.
• Over-the-Top Move: Swinging out-to-in can promote heel contact.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Stand slightly closer to the ball, allowing arms to hang naturally.
• Hip Movement: Focus on rotating hips rather than thrusting forward.
• Path Control: Work on an inside-to-out swing path.
• Posture Maintenance: Maintain spine angle through impact.
• Weight Transfer: Ensure proper forward weight shift while maintaining posture.

Feel Tips:

• Feel your arms hanging naturally at address, not crowded.
• Maintain your spine angle through impact.
• Feel like you're staying "in the box" during your downswing.
• Sense the clubhead moving away from your body through impact.
• Focus on rotating around your spine, not lifting up.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Stay in posture through impact."
• "Let arms hang naturally."
• "Turn, don't thrust."
• "Feel centered at impact."
• "Swing out to right field."

Drills to Fix Heeled Shots:

1. Alignment Rod Distance Guide: Place rod parallel to target line to ensure proper distance from ball.
2. Impact Tape Feedback: Use impact tape to track strike location and make adjustments.
3. Headcover Drill: Place headcover outside ball to prevent over-the-top move.
4. Split-Stance Practice: Hit shots with back foot dropped back to promote better rotation.
5. Mirror Work: Practice setup and positions in mirror to ensure proper distances and angles.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Left Starting Shots

A left starting shot occurs when your ball begins its flight path left of your target line. For right-handed golfers, this can lead to pulls, hooks, or pull-hooks depending on the clubface position relative to the path. Understanding and correcting left-starting shots is crucial for improving accuracy and course management.

Common Causes:

• Closed Stance: Setting up with feet, hips, and shoulders aimed left of target.
• Out-to-In Path: Swinging across the ball from outside to inside.
• Closed Clubface: Having the clubface pointing left of the target at impact.
• Poor Alignment: Misaligning your body or target line at address.
• Early Hip Rotation: Firing hips too early in the downswing.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Alignment: Use alignment sticks to ensure square setup to target line.
• Path Control: Work on swinging more from inside to out through impact.
• Face Control: Learn to control clubface position through impact.
• Hip Rotation: Sequence the downswing properly from ground up.
• Pre-Shot Routine: Develop a consistent routine that ensures proper alignment.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're swinging to right field.
• Sense your arms dropping down on the inside during transition.
• Feel your chest staying behind the ball through impact.
• Imagine throwing a frisbee to your target.
• Feel like your right shoulder works down and through, not out and across.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Start the ball right"
• "Drop it inside"
• "Hold the face open"
• "Turn through, don't slide"
• "Finish high and right"

Drills to Fix Left Starting Shots:

1. Alignment Rod Path Drill: Place rods to promote inside-out swing path.
2. Start Line Gate Drill: Set up gates to practice starting the ball on intended line.
3. Mirror Check Drill: Use mirror to verify proper setup and alignment.
4. Towel Drill: Place towel outside ball to prevent over-the-top move.
5. Nine-to-Three Drill: Practice partial swings focusing on path and face control.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Right Starting Shots

A right starting shot occurs when your ball begins its flight path right of your target line. For right-handed golfers, this can lead to pushes, slices, or push-slices depending on the clubface position relative to the path. Understanding and correcting right-starting shots is essential for improving accuracy and reducing lost shots to the right side of the course.

Common Causes:

• Open Stance: Setting up with feet, hips, and shoulders aimed right of target.
• Inside-to-Out Path: Swinging too far from inside causing a push.
• Open Clubface: Having the clubface pointing right of the target at impact.
• Delayed Release: Holding off the release through impact.
• Weight Distribution: Too much weight remaining on back foot through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Check: Ensure alignment is square to target line using alignment aids.
• Path Balance: Work on a neutral to slightly in-to-out path.
• Release Timing: Focus on proper release through impact.
• Weight Transfer: Practice moving weight forward through the shot.
• Face Control: Learn to square the clubface at impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're swinging left of the target.
• Sense your weight moving forward through impact.
• Feel your hands leading the clubhead into impact.
• Imagine the ball starting just left of your target.
• Feel like your chest rotates through to face the target.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Turn through to the target"
• "Release the club"
• "Lead with the hands"
• "Start it left"
• "Rotate to finish"

Drills to Fix Right Starting Shots:

1. Alignment Station: Use alignment rods to ensure proper setup and target line.
2. Path Board Drill: Practice swinging along a board to groove proper path.
3. Release Drill: Practice releasing the club with half swings.
4. Weight Transfer Drill: Practice with a step-through finish.
5. Target Gate Drill: Set up gates to visualize and practice correct start line.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Hook Shots

A hook is a shot that curves dramatically from right to left (for right-handed golfers). While a slight draw can be beneficial, a hook typically travels too far left and can result in significant distance loss and accuracy issues. Understanding the causes and corrections for a hook can help you develop a more controlled ball flight.

Common Causes:

• Closed Clubface: Face is closed relative to the swing path at impact.
• Inside-Out Path: Swing path is too far from in-to-out.
• Strong Grip: Hands are rotated too far to the right on the club.
• Early Release: Premature rotation of the hands through impact.
• Poor Body Rotation: Upper body doesn't rotate through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Grip Check: Ensure grip is neutral, seeing 2-3 knuckles on left hand.
• Path Control: Work on a more neutral swing path.
• Release Timing: Delay the release of the club through impact.
• Body Rotation: Focus on complete body rotation through the shot.
• Face Control: Learn to control clubface through impact zone.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're holding off the release through impact.
• Sense your body rotating fully through the shot.
• Feel like you're swinging more left through impact.
• Imagine the clubface staying open longer.
• Feel your arms extending through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hold the face open"
• "Turn through with the body"
• "Extend the arms"
• "Delay the release"
• "Swing left through impact"

Drills to Fix Hook Shots:

1. Alignment Rod Path Drill: Use rods to groove a neutral path.
2. Hold-Off Drill: Practice shots while holding off the release.
3. Body Rotation Drill: Focus on full rotation with resistance band.
4. Face-to-Path Drill: Practice with alignment sticks showing proper face angle.
5. Half-Speed Swings: Work on control at reduced speed.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Slice Shots

A slice is a shot that curves dramatically from left to right (for right-handed golfers). This is one of the most common miss-hits in golf and can significantly reduce distance and accuracy. Understanding the mechanics behind a slice is crucial for developing a more consistent ball flight.

Common Causes:

• Open Clubface: Face is open relative to the swing path at impact.
• Outside-In Path: Swing path moves left of target line through impact.
• Weak Grip: Hands positioned too far left on the club.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight remains on back foot through impact.
• Over-the-Top Move: Upper body dominates downswing sequence.

Professional Advice:

• Grip Adjustment: Strengthen grip slightly to help square the face.
• Path Correction: Learn to drop the club more from the inside.
• Weight Transfer: Focus on forward weight shift through impact.
• Rotation: Improve body rotation for better swing path.
• Sequence: Start downswing from ground up.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're swinging to right field.
• Sense the club dropping behind you in transition.
• Feel your weight moving left while staying down.
• Imagine throwing a frisbee straight to target.
• Feel your arms falling down to start downswing.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Drop it inside"
• "Turn through the ball"
• "Start down with lower body"
• "Keep hands close to body"
• "Swing to right field"

Drills to Fix Slice Shots:

1. Path Board Drill: Use alignment board to groove inside path.
2. Headcover Drill: Place headcover outside ball to prevent over-the-top.
3. Step-Through Drill: Practice stepping toward target through impact.
4. Half-Shot Drill: Work on path with half swings.
5. Connection Drill: Keep arms connected to body through swing.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Shots Too Low

Low driver shots can significantly reduce carry distance and overall distance potential. These shots often result in excessive roll and difficulty carrying hazards or elevation changes. Understanding why your driver shots are too low is crucial for optimizing your ball flight and maximizing distance.

Common Causes:

• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance.
• Downward Attack Angle: Hitting down on the ball instead of up.
• Forward Shaft Lean: Excessive forward shaft lean at impact.
• Low Tee Height: Ball teed too low for driver.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Ball Position: Place ball opposite left heel for proper impact.
• Attack Angle: Learn to hit up on the ball with driver.
• Tee Height: Tee the ball so half is above clubhead at address.
• Spine Tilt: Maintain proper spine tilt away from target.
• Launch Optimization: Work with proper equipment setup.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting up on the ball.
• Sense your spine tilting away from target.
• Feel your chest behind the ball at impact.
• Imagine sweeping the ball off the tee.
• Feel like you're launching the ball high.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Sweep it off the tee"
• "Tilt away from target"
• "Hit up on the ball"
• "High finish"
• "Launch it to the sky"

Drills to Fix Low Driver Shots:

1. Tee Height Drill: Practice with higher tee to promote upward strike.
2. Alignment Rod Drill: Use rod to check spine tilt.
3. Ball Position Practice: Use alignment sticks to ensure forward ball position.
4. Impact Bag Drill: Feel proper impact position.
5. Finish Position Drill: Focus on high, full finish.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Shots Too High

While getting the ball airborne is important, shots that launch too high can result in significant distance loss and reduced control, especially in windy conditions. Understanding how to optimize your launch angle can help you achieve better distance and consistency with your driver.

Common Causes:

• Excessive Upward Strike: Too much upward attack angle.
• Ball Position: Ball too far forward in stance.
• High Dynamic Loft: Adding loft through impact.
• Casting: Early release of club in downswing.
• Equipment Issues: Club loft or shaft flex mismatch.

Professional Advice:

• Attack Angle: Moderate upward strike for optimal launch.
• Ball Position: Slightly back from far forward position.
• Equipment Check: Verify proper club specifications.
• Release Pattern: Work on proper release sequence.
• Spine Angle: Maintain consistent spine tilt through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting more level through impact.
• Sense your hands leading through impact.
• Feel a lower finish position.
• Imagine a more penetrating ball flight.
• Feel your weight staying more centered.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Drive through the ball"
• "Hold the angle longer"
• "Lower trajectory"
• "Hands lead clubhead"
• "Compress the ball"

Drills to Fix High Driver Shots:

1. Low Point Control: Practice controlling bottom of swing arc.
2. Half-Speed Swings: Work on proper impact position.
3. Ball Position Drill: Experiment with slightly different positions.
4. Release Drill: Practice proper release timing.
5. Finish Position Drill: Work on lower, controlled finish.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Thin/Topped Contact

Thin or topped iron shots occur when contact is made above the ball's equator, resulting in low-flying shots with minimal backspin. These mishits significantly reduce control and distance, often leading to shots that scoot across the ground or travel much shorter than intended.

Common Causes:

• Early Extension: Standing up through impact, raising the swing arc.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight remaining on back foot through impact.
• Head Movement: Lifting head or body before impact.
• Ball Position: Ball too far forward in stance.
• Steep Attack Angle: Coming into the ball too steeply.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Maintain proper spine angle and posture throughout swing.
• Weight Distribution: Focus on forward weight transfer through impact.
• Ball Position: Position ball center to slightly back of center for irons.
• Impact Position: Keep chest down and rotating through impact.
• Divot Pattern: Practice taking proper divots after the ball.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're staying down through impact.
• Sense the club brushing the grass after ball contact.
• Feel your weight moving forward while maintaining spine angle.
• Imagine hitting down and through the ball.
• Feel your chest rotating over your front foot through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Stay down through impact"
• "Hit down on the ball"
• "Keep chest down"
• "Brush the grass"
• "Turn through to target"

Drills to Fix Thin/Topped Shots:

1. Towel Behind Ball Drill: Practice hitting ball while brushing towel.
2. Impact Bag Work: Practice proper impact position.
3. Coin Drill: Place coin in front of ball and try to hit it after ball.
4. Split-Hand Drill: Practice with hands split on grip to feel proper impact.
5. Headcover Drill: Place headcover behind ball to promote downward strike.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Fat/Chunked Contact

Fat or chunked iron shots occur when the club strikes the ground before the ball, resulting in significant loss of distance and control. These shots often feel heavy and can be particularly frustrating as they typically travel only a fraction of the intended distance.

Common Causes:

• Reverse Weight Shift: Weight moving backward through impact.
• Early Release: Casting the club before impact.
• Poor Low Point Control: Bottom of swing arc too far behind ball.
• Swaying: Lateral movement instead of rotation.
• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance.

Professional Advice:

• Weight Transfer: Focus on forward weight movement through swing.
• Rotation: Turn body through impact rather than sliding.
• Ball Position: Maintain consistent ball position for each club.
• Swing Arc: Control low point through better pivot movement.
• Hand Path: Keep hands moving forward through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel weight moving to lead foot during downswing.
• Sense hands leading clubhead through impact.
• Feel like you're turning through, not sliding.
• Imagine compressing the ball against the ground.
• Feel your chest rotating toward target.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hands lead the way"
• "Turn don't slide"
• "Weight forward"
• "Compress the ball"
• "Chest to target"

Drills to Fix Fat/Chunked Shots:

1. Line Drill: Practice with line drawn on ground at ball position.
2. Step Drill: Practice stepping toward target through impact.
3. Handle Drill: Focus on leading with handle through impact.
4. Alignment Rod Path: Use rod to guide proper swing path.
5. Ball Forward Drill: Practice with ball slightly forward of center.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Heel Contact

Heel strikes with irons occur when contact is made on the inner portion of the clubface, closest to the hosel. These shots typically result in a loss of distance and accuracy, often producing a weak ball flight that can curve unexpectedly.

Common Causes:

• Standing Too Far: Excessive distance from the ball at address.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.
• Poor Setup: Arms too close to body at address.
• Swing Path: Out-to-in swing path promoting heel contact.
• Weight Distribution: Too much weight on heels during swing.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Allow arms to hang naturally at address.
• Distance Check: Use proper posture to determine ideal ball position.
• Weight Balance: Maintain centered weight over balls of feet.
• Path Control: Work on neutral to slightly in-to-out path.
• Impact Position: Maintain spine angle through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel arms hanging naturally away from body.
• Sense weight balanced toward balls of feet.
• Feel like you're maintaining your posture through impact.
• Imagine the clubhead working away from your body.
• Feel centered at impact rather than backing away.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Stay in posture"
• "Arms away from body"
• "Center strike"
• "Hold your space"
• "Turn through the ball"

Drills to Fix Heel Strikes:

1. Alignment Rod Setup: Use rods to check proper distance from ball.
2. Impact Tape Feedback: Monitor strike location during practice.
3. Penny Drill: Place penny on opposite side of clubface to promote center contact.
4. Balance Drill: Practice shots focusing on weight position.
5. Gate Drill: Set up gates to promote proper swing path.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Toe Contact

Toe strikes with irons occur when contact is made on the outer portion of the clubface. These shots typically result in a loss of distance and can produce a distinctive feel and sound, often accompanied by inconsistent ball flight and reduced accuracy.

Common Causes:

• Standing Too Close: Insufficient distance from the ball at address.
• Poor Posture: Excessive bend from the waist.
• Arms Collapsing: Loss of arm extension through impact.
• Weight Distribution: Too much weight on toes during swing.
• Inside Takeaway: Club working too far inside on backswing.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Check proper distance from ball using arm hang.
• Posture Check: Maintain athletic posture throughout swing.
• Extension: Focus on maintaining arm extension through impact.
• Balance: Keep weight centered in feet.
• Takeaway Path: Work club back on proper plane.

Feel Tips:

• Feel athletic and balanced at address.
• Sense arms extending through impact.
• Feel weight centered in feet throughout swing.
• Imagine maintaining your spine angle.
• Feel like you're staying connected to the ground.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Extend through impact"
• "Stay centered"
• "Hold posture"
• "Arms away from body"
• "Athletic balance"

Drills to Fix Toe Strikes:

1. Setup Mirror Work: Practice proper setup position and distance.
2. Impact Tape Training: Use tape to monitor strike pattern.
3. Extension Drill: Practice maintaining arm extension.
4. Balance Rod Drill: Use alignment rod to check weight distribution.
5. Connection Drill: Use foam ball between arms for better connection.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Left Starting Line

A left-starting iron shot occurs when the ball begins its flight path left of the target line. For right-handed golfers, this can lead to pulls or pull-draws, affecting both distance control and accuracy. Understanding the causes and corrections for left-starting shots is crucial for improved iron play.

Common Causes:

• Closed Stance: Body aligned left of target at address.
• Out-to-In Path: Swing path moving left through impact.
• Closed Clubface: Face pointing left of target at impact.
• Poor Alignment: Misaligning your body or target line at address.
• Early Hip Turn: Hips rotating too early in downswing.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Check: Ensure neutral alignment to target.
• Path Control: Work on neutral to slightly in-to-out path.
• Face Control: Monitor clubface position through impact.
• Hip Sequence: Improve timing of hip rotation.
• Alignment Practice: Use alignment aids regularly.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're swinging more to the right.
• Sense a more patient hip turn.
• Feel your arms dropping more inside on downswing.
• Imagine starting the ball right of target.
• Feel like your chest stays closed longer.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Start it right"
• "Patient with hips"
• "Drop it inside"
• "Hold the face"
• "Chest to target"

Drills to Fix Left Starting Shots:

1. Alignment Station: Practice with alignment rods for proper setup.
2. Path Board Drill: Use a board to groove proper path.
3. Gate Drill: Set up gates to visualize correct start line.
4. Towel Drill: Place towel on path to prevent over-the-top move.
5. Mirror Work: Check setup and alignment positions.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Right Starting Line

A right-starting iron shot occurs when the ball begins its flight path right of the target line. For right-handed golfers, this can lead to pushes or push-fades, affecting both accuracy and distance control. Understanding and correcting right-starting shots is essential for consistent iron play.

Common Causes:

• Open Stance: Body aligned right of target at address.
• Inside-to-Out Path: Swing path moving too far from inside.
• Open Clubface: Face pointing right of the target at impact.
• Delayed Release: Holding off club rotation through impact.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight staying back through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Check alignment square to target line.
• Path Balance: Work on neutral path through impact.
• Release Timing: Improve clubface control through impact.
• Weight Movement: Focus on proper forward weight transfer.
• Body Rotation: Maintain proper sequence through ball.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're swinging more left through impact.
• Sense weight moving forward with the swing.
• Feel hands releasing through the ball.
• Imagine starting the ball right of target.
• Feel like your chest rotates through to face the target.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Turn through to the target"
• "Release the club"
• "Lead with the hands"
• "Start it right"
• "Rotate to finish"

Drills to Fix Right Starting Shots:

1. Alignment Station: Use alignment rods to ensure proper setup and target line.
2. Path Board Drill: Practice swinging along a board to groove proper path.
3. Release Drill: Practice releasing the club with half swings.
4. Weight Transfer Drill: Practice with a step-through finish.
5. Target Gate Drill: Set up gates to visualize and practice correct start line.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Hook

A hooked iron shot curves dramatically from right to left (for right-handed golfers). While a slight draw can be beneficial, a hook typically travels too far left and results in significant distance loss and accuracy issues. Understanding the causes and corrections for a hook can help you develop a more controlled ball flight with your irons.

Common Causes:

• Closed Clubface: Face is closed relative to the swing path at impact.
• Inside-Out Path: Swing path is too far from in-to-out.
• Strong Grip: Hands are rotated too far to the right on the club.
• Early Release: Premature rotation of the hands through impact.
• Poor Body Rotation: Upper body doesn't rotate through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Grip Check: Ensure neutral grip position with both hands.
• Path Control: Work on a more neutral swing path.
• Release Timing: Delay the release of the club through impact.
• Body Rotation: Focus on complete body rotation through the shot.
• Face Control: Learn to control clubface through impact zone.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're holding off the release through impact.
• Sense your body rotating fully through the shot.
• Feel like you're swinging more left through impact.
• Imagine the clubface staying open longer.
• Feel your arms extending through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hold the face"
• "Turn through"
• "Extend the arms"
• "Patient hands"
• "Body leads hands"

Drills to Fix Hook:

1. Grip Check Drill: Practice with alignment stick for grip position.
2. Path Board Drill: Use a board to groove proper path.
3. Impact Bag Work: Practice proper impact position.
4. Hold-Off Drill: Practice holding face through impact.
5. Body Rotation Drill: Work on proper sequencing.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Slice

A sliced iron shot curves excessively from left to right (for right-handed golfers). This common miss not only reduces distance but can also lead to significant accuracy issues. Understanding and correcting the slice is crucial for more consistent iron play.

Common Causes:

• Open Clubface: Face pointing right of the swing path at impact.
• Out-to-In Path: Swing path moving left through impact.
• Weak Grip: Hands rotated too far left on the club.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight staying back through impact.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Grip Position: Check grip strength
• Path Direction: Work on more in-to-out path.
• Weight Transfer: Focus on forward weight movement.
• Impact Position: Maintain spine angle through impact.
• Release Pattern: Improve hand rotation through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel hands rotating through impact.
• Sense the club dropping to the inside.
• Feel weight moving forward with hands.
• Imagine swinging more to the right.
• Feel like you're staying down through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Turn through it"
• "Drop it inside"
• "Release the club"
• "Weight forward"
• "Stay down"

Drills to Fix Slice:

1. Path Drill: Practice with alignment sticks for proper path.
2. Release Drill: Work on proper hand rotation.
3. Weight Transfer Drill: Practice with step-through finish.
4. Connection Drill: Use towel under arms for better connection.
5. Impact Drill: Practice with impact bag.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Shots Too Low

Low driver shots can significantly reduce carry distance and overall distance potential. These shots often result in excessive roll and difficulty carrying hazards or elevation changes. Understanding why your driver shots are too low is crucial for optimizing your ball flight and maximizing distance.

Common Causes:

• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance.
• Downward Attack Angle: Hitting down on the ball instead of up.
• Forward Shaft Lean: Excessive forward shaft lean at impact.
• Low Tee Height: Ball teed too low for driver.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Ball Position: Place ball opposite left heel for proper impact.
• Attack Angle: Learn to hit up on the ball with driver.
• Tee Height: Tee the ball so half is above clubhead at address.
• Spine Tilt: Maintain proper spine tilt away from target.
• Launch Optimization: Work with proper equipment setup.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting up on the ball.
• Sense your spine tilting away from target.
• Feel your chest behind the ball at impact.
• Imagine sweeping the ball off the tee.
• Feel like you're launching the ball high.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Sweep it off the tee"
• "Tilt away from target"
• "Hit up on the ball"
• "High finish"
• "Launch it to the sky"

Drills to Fix Low Driver Shots:

1. Tee Height Drill: Practice with higher tee to promote upward strike.
2. Alignment Rod Drill: Use rod to check spine tilt.
3. Ball Position Practice: Use alignment sticks to ensure forward ball position.
4. Impact Bag Drill: Feel proper impact position.
5. Finish Position Drill: Focus on high, full finish.

Instructional Videos:

Driver Shots Too High

While getting the ball airborne is important, shots that launch too high can result in significant distance loss and reduced control, especially in windy conditions. Understanding how to optimize your launch angle can help you achieve better distance and consistency with your driver.

Common Causes:

• Excessive Upward Strike: Too much upward attack angle.
• Ball Position: Ball too far forward in stance.
• High Dynamic Loft: Adding loft through impact.
• Casting: Early release of club in downswing.
• Equipment Issues: Club loft or shaft flex mismatch.

Professional Advice:

• Attack Angle: Moderate upward strike for optimal launch.
• Ball Position: Slightly back from far forward position.
• Equipment Check: Verify proper club specifications.
• Release Pattern: Work on proper release sequence.
• Spine Angle: Maintain consistent spine tilt through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting more level through impact.
• Sense your hands leading through impact.
• Feel a lower finish position.
• Imagine a more penetrating ball flight.
• Feel your weight staying more centered.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Drive through the ball"
• "Hold the angle longer"
• "Lower trajectory"
• "Hands lead clubhead"
• "Compress the ball"

Drills to Fix High Driver Shots:

1. Low Point Control: Practice controlling bottom of swing arc.
2. Half-Speed Swings: Work on proper impact position.
3. Ball Position Drill: Experiment with slightly different positions.
4. Release Drill: Practice proper release timing.
5. Finish Position Drill: Work on lower, controlled finish.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Thin/Topped Contact

Thin or topped iron shots occur when contact is made above the ball's equator, resulting in low-flying shots with minimal backspin. These mishits significantly reduce control and distance, often leading to shots that scoot across the ground or travel much shorter than intended.

Common Causes:

• Early Extension: Standing up through impact, raising the swing arc.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight remaining on back foot through impact.
• Head Movement: Lifting head or body before impact.
• Ball Position: Ball too far forward in stance.
• Steep Attack Angle: Coming into the ball too steeply.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Maintain proper spine angle and posture throughout swing.
• Weight Distribution: Focus on forward weight transfer through impact.
• Ball Position: Position ball center to slightly back of center for irons.
• Impact Position: Keep chest down and rotating through impact.
• Divot Pattern: Practice taking proper divots after the ball.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're staying down through impact.
• Sense the club brushing the grass after ball contact.
• Feel your weight moving forward while maintaining spine angle.
• Imagine hitting down and through the ball.
• Feel your chest rotating over your front foot through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Stay down through impact"
• "Hit down on the ball"
• "Keep chest down"
• "Brush the grass"
• "Turn through to target"

Drills to Fix Thin/Topped Shots:

1. Towel Behind Ball Drill: Practice hitting ball while brushing towel.
2. Impact Bag Work: Practice proper impact position.
3. Coin Drill: Place coin in front of ball and try to hit it after ball.
4. Split-Hand Drill: Practice with hands split on grip to feel proper impact.
5. Headcover Drill: Place headcover behind ball to promote downward strike.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Fat/Chunked Contact

Fat or chunked iron shots occur when the club strikes the ground before the ball, resulting in significant loss of distance and control. These shots often feel heavy and can be particularly frustrating as they typically travel only a fraction of the intended distance.

Common Causes:

• Reverse Weight Shift: Weight moving backward through impact.
• Early Release: Casting the club before impact.
• Poor Low Point Control: Bottom of swing arc too far behind ball.
• Swaying: Lateral movement instead of rotation.
• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance.

Professional Advice:

• Weight Transfer: Focus on forward weight movement through swing.
• Rotation: Turn body through impact rather than sliding.
• Ball Position: Maintain consistent ball position for each club.
• Swing Arc: Control low point through better pivot movement.
• Hand Path: Keep hands moving forward through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel weight moving to lead foot during downswing.
• Sense hands leading clubhead through impact.
• Feel like you're turning through, not sliding.
• Imagine compressing the ball against the ground.
• Feel your chest rotating toward target.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hands lead the way"
• "Turn don't slide"
• "Weight forward"
• "Compress the ball"
• "Chest to target"

Drills to Fix Fat/Chunked Shots:

1. Line Drill: Practice with line drawn on ground at ball position.
2. Step Drill: Practice stepping toward target through impact.
3. Handle Drill: Focus on leading with handle through impact.
4. Alignment Rod Path: Use rod to guide proper swing path.
5. Ball Forward Drill: Practice with ball slightly forward of center.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Heel Contact

Heel strikes with irons occur when contact is made on the inner portion of the clubface, closest to the hosel. These shots typically result in a loss of distance and accuracy, often producing a weak ball flight that can curve unexpectedly.

Common Causes:

• Standing Too Far: Excessive distance from the ball at address.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.
• Poor Setup: Arms too close to body at address.
• Swing Path: Out-to-in swing path promoting heel contact.
• Weight Distribution: Too much weight on heels during swing.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Allow arms to hang naturally at address.
• Distance Check: Use proper posture to determine ideal ball position.
• Weight Balance: Maintain centered weight over balls of feet.
• Path Control: Work on neutral to slightly in-to-out path.
• Impact Position: Maintain spine angle through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel arms hanging naturally away from body.
• Sense weight balanced toward balls of feet.
• Feel like you're maintaining your posture through impact.
• Imagine the clubhead working away from your body.
• Feel centered at impact rather than backing away.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Stay in posture"
• "Arms away from body"
• "Center strike"
• "Hold your space"
• "Turn through the ball"

Drills to Fix Heel Strikes:

1. Alignment Rod Setup: Use rods to check proper distance from ball.
2. Impact Tape Feedback: Monitor strike location during practice.
3. Penny Drill: Place penny on opposite side of clubface to promote center contact.
4. Balance Drill: Practice shots focusing on weight position.
5. Gate Drill: Set up gates to promote proper swing path.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Toe Contact

Toe strikes with irons occur when contact is made on the outer portion of the clubface. These shots typically result in a loss of distance and can produce a distinctive feel and sound, often accompanied by inconsistent ball flight and reduced accuracy.

Common Causes:

• Standing Too Close: Insufficient distance from the ball at address.
• Poor Posture: Excessive bend from the waist.
• Arms Collapsing: Loss of arm extension through impact.
• Weight Distribution: Too much weight on toes during swing.
• Inside Takeaway: Club working too far inside on backswing.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Check proper distance from ball using arm hang.
• Posture Check: Maintain athletic posture throughout swing.
• Extension: Focus on maintaining arm extension through impact.
• Balance: Keep weight centered in feet.
• Takeaway Path: Work club back on proper plane.

Feel Tips:

• Feel athletic and balanced at address.
• Sense arms extending through impact.
• Feel weight centered in feet throughout swing.
• Imagine maintaining your spine angle.
• Feel like you're staying connected to the ground.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Extend through impact"
• "Stay centered"
• "Hold posture"
• "Arms away from body"
• "Athletic balance"

Drills to Fix Toe Strikes:

1. Setup Mirror Work: Practice proper setup position and distance.
2. Impact Tape Training: Use tape to monitor strike pattern.
3. Extension Drill: Practice maintaining arm extension.
4. Balance Rod Drill: Use alignment rod to check weight distribution.
5. Connection Drill: Use foam ball between arms for better connection.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Left Starting Line

A left-starting iron shot occurs when the ball begins its flight path left of the target line. For right-handed golfers, this can lead to pulls or pull-draws, affecting both distance control and accuracy. Understanding the causes and corrections for left-starting shots is crucial for improved iron play.

Common Causes:

• Closed Stance: Body aligned left of target at address.
• Out-to-In Path: Swing path moving left through impact.
• Closed Clubface: Face pointing left of target at impact.
• Poor Alignment: Misaligning your body or target line at address.
• Early Hip Turn: Hips rotating too early in downswing.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Check: Ensure neutral alignment to target.
• Path Control: Work on neutral to slightly in-to-out path.
• Face Control: Monitor clubface position through impact.
• Hip Sequence: Improve timing of hip rotation.
• Alignment Practice: Use alignment aids regularly.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're swinging more to the right.
• Sense a more patient hip turn.
• Feel your arms dropping more inside on downswing.
• Imagine starting the ball right of target.
• Feel like your chest stays closed longer.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Start it right"
• "Patient with hips"
• "Drop it inside"
• "Hold the face"
• "Chest to target"

Drills to Fix Left Starting Shots:

1. Alignment Station: Practice with alignment rods for proper setup.
2. Path Board Drill: Use a board to groove proper path.
3. Gate Drill: Set up gates to visualize correct start line.
4. Towel Drill: Place towel on path to prevent over-the-top move.
5. Mirror Work: Check setup and alignment positions.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Right Starting Line

A right-starting iron shot occurs when the ball begins its flight path right of the target line. For right-handed golfers, this can lead to pushes or push-fades, affecting both accuracy and distance control. Understanding and correcting right-starting shots is essential for consistent iron play.

Common Causes:

• Open Stance: Body aligned right of target at address.
• Inside-to-Out Path: Swing path moving too far from inside.
• Open Clubface: Face pointing right of the target at impact.
• Delayed Release: Holding off club rotation through impact.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight staying back through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Check alignment square to target line.
• Path Balance: Work on neutral path through impact.
• Release Timing: Improve clubface control through impact.
• Weight Movement: Focus on proper forward weight transfer.
• Body Rotation: Maintain proper sequence through ball.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're swinging more left through impact.
• Sense weight moving forward with the swing.
• Feel hands releasing through the ball.
• Imagine starting the ball right of target.
• Feel like your chest rotates through to face the target.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Turn through to the target"
• "Release the club"
• "Lead with the hands"
• "Start it right"
• "Rotate to finish"

Drills to Fix Right Starting Shots:

1. Alignment Station: Use alignment rods to ensure proper setup and target line.
2. Path Board Drill: Practice swinging along a board to groove proper path.
3. Release Drill: Practice releasing the club with half swings.
4. Weight Transfer Drill: Practice with a step-through finish.
5. Target Gate Drill: Set up gates to visualize and practice correct start line.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Hook

A hooked iron shot curves dramatically from right to left (for right-handed golfers). While a slight draw can be beneficial, a hook typically travels too far left and results in significant distance loss and accuracy issues. Understanding the causes and corrections for a hook can help you develop a more controlled ball flight with your irons.

Common Causes:

• Closed Clubface: Face is closed relative to the swing path at impact.
• Inside-Out Path: Swing path is too far from in-to-out.
• Strong Grip: Hands are rotated too far to the right on the club.
• Early Release: Premature rotation of the hands through impact.
• Poor Body Rotation: Upper body doesn't rotate through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Grip Check: Ensure neutral grip position with both hands.
• Path Control: Work on a more neutral swing path.
• Release Timing: Delay the release of the club through impact.
• Body Rotation: Focus on complete body rotation through the shot.
• Face Control: Learn to control clubface through impact zone.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're holding off the release through impact.
• Sense your body rotating fully through the shot.
• Feel like you're swinging more left through impact.
• Imagine the clubface staying open longer.
• Feel your arms extending through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hold the face"
• "Turn through"
• "Extend the arms"
• "Patient hands"
• "Body leads hands"

Drills to Fix Hook:

1. Grip Check Drill: Practice with alignment stick for grip position.
2. Path Board Drill: Use a board to groove proper path.
3. Impact Bag Work: Practice proper impact position.
4. Hold-Off Drill: Practice holding face through impact.
5. Body Rotation Drill: Work on proper sequencing.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Slice

A sliced iron shot curves excessively from left to right (for right-handed golfers). This common miss not only reduces distance but can also lead to significant accuracy issues. Understanding and correcting the slice is crucial for more consistent iron play.

Common Causes:

• Open Clubface: Face pointing right of the swing path at impact.
• Out-to-In Path: Swing path moving left through impact.
• Weak Grip: Hands rotated too far left on the club.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight staying back through impact.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Grip Position: Check grip strength
• Path Direction: Work on more in-to-out path.
• Weight Transfer: Focus on forward weight movement.
• Impact Position: Maintain spine angle through impact.
• Release Pattern: Improve hand rotation through impact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel hands rotating through impact.
• Sense the club dropping to the inside.
• Feel weight moving forward with hands.
• Imagine swinging more to the right.
• Feel like you're staying down through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Turn through it"
• "Drop it inside"
• "Release the club"
• "Weight forward"
• "Stay down"

Drills to Fix Slice:

1. Path Drill: Practice with alignment sticks for proper path.
2. Release Drill: Work on proper hand rotation.
3. Weight Transfer Drill: Practice with step-through finish.
4. Connection Drill: Use towel under arms for better connection.
5. Impact Drill: Practice with impact bag.

Instructional Videos:

Putting Mishits

These are common mishits that can occur in putting. Understanding and correcting these mishits can improve your consistency and overall performance on the green.

Common Mishits:

• Pushed Putts: Putting too hard, resulting in a slower speed and less control.
• Pulled Putts: Putting too soft, resulting in a slower speed and less control.
• Off-Center Strikes: Putting too far left or right of the target line, resulting in a miss.

Professional Advice:

• Practice Proper Grip Pressure: Use the correct amount of pressure on the putter.
• Proper Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
• Eye Line: Keep your eye on the ball throughout the stroke.
• Follow-Through: Finish the stroke smoothly and smoothly.
• Practice Regularly: Consistency comes with practice.

Feel Tips:

• Feel the correct amount of pressure on the putter.
• Maintain a consistent tempo throughout the stroke.
• Focus on making consistent contact with the ball.
• Feel the ball rolling off the putter face smoothly.
• Practice aiming for the target line consistently.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Keep the stroke smooth and consistent."
• "Use the correct amount of pressure."
• "Maintain a consistent tempo."
• "Focus on making consistent contact."
• "Practice aiming for the target line."

Drills to Fix Mishits:

1. Speed Control Drill: Practice hitting putts at different speeds to develop feel.
2. Aiming Drill: Practice aiming for the target line consistently.
3. Grip Pressure Drill: Practice using different amounts of grip pressure.
4. Stance Drill: Practice with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
5. Eye Line Drill: Practice keeping your eye on the ball throughout the stroke.

Instructional Videos:

Putting Green Reading

Green reading is an essential skill for putting. Understanding the principles of green reading can help you make more consistent putts. Here are some key points to consider:

Key Points:

• AimPoint: The point on the green where you aim the ball to hit the hole.
• Plumb-Bobbing: The practice of using a plumb bob to determine the correct line to the hole.
• Straddle the Line: The practice of aiming slightly left or right of the hole to account for the ball's roll.
• Pace Counting: The practice of counting steps to maintain a consistent tempo.

Professional Advice:

• Practice Regularly: Consistency comes with practice.
• Use Visualization: Imagine the line to the hole and practice hitting it.
• Understand the Green: Know the characteristics of different types of greens.
• Use Equipment: Use tools like a laser rangefinder or green reading book.
• Understand Break: Learn to read the break of the green.

Feel Tips:

• Feel the correct line to the hole.
• Maintain a consistent tempo.
• Practice aiming slightly left or right of the hole.
• Practice counting steps to maintain a consistent pace.
• Use tools like a laser rangefinder or green reading book to confirm your line.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Smooth and consistent stroke."
• "Maintain a consistent tempo."
• "Focus on making consistent contact."
• "Practice aiming slightly left or right of the hole."
• "Use tools to confirm your line."

Drills to Improve Green Reading:

1. Visualization Drill: Practice aiming for the hole using a mental image.
2. Practice Regularly: Consistency comes with practice.
3. Understand Break: Learn to read the break of different types of greens.
4. Use Equipment: Practice with tools like a laser rangefinder or green reading book.
5. Understand Green Characteristics: Know the different types of greens and their characteristics.

Instructional Videos:

Putting - Pushed Putts

A pushed putt occurs when the ball starts right of the intended line (for right-handed golfers) and continues on that line. This common miss can be particularly frustrating as it often results in missing on the high side of the hole, leaving longer comeback putts.

Common Causes:

• Open Face: Putter face pointing right of target at impact.
• Outside Path: Putter moving away from body through stroke.
• Poor Eye Alignment: Eyes positioned too far inside the ball.
• Grip Pressure: Too tight grip causing restricted release.
• Ball Position: Ball too far forward in stance.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Check eye position directly over or slightly inside ball.
• Path Control: Work on straight-back-straight-through path.
• Face Control: Ensure face stays square to target line.
• Grip Pressure: Maintain light, consistent pressure throughout stroke.
• Ball Position: Position ball just forward of center.

Feel Tips:

• Feel the putter face staying square to target.
• Sense arms swinging in unison.
• Feel light, consistent grip pressure.
• Imagine the ball rolling on your intended line.
• Feel your eyes directly over the ball.

Putting Thoughts:

• "Square face"
• "Straight back"
• "Light hands"
• "Eyes over ball"
• "Down the line"

Drills to Fix Pushed Putts:

1. Gate Drill: Set up tees to create a gate for proper path.
2. String Line Drill: Practice with string to check alignment.
3. Mirror Work: Use putting mirror to check eye position.
4. Path Board Drill: Use putting rail to groove straight path.
5. Face Alignment Drill: Practice with alignment aid on putter.

Instructional Videos:

Putting - Pulled Putts

A pulled putt occurs when the ball starts left of the intended line (for right-handed golfers) and continues on that line. This common miss often results in missing on the low side of the hole, making it particularly costly on breaking putts.

Common Causes:

• Closed Face: Putter face pointing left of target at impact.
• Inside Path: Putter moving too far inside during stroke.
• Eye Position: Eyes positioned too far outside the ball.
• Early Hand Action: Hands too active through impact.
• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Check: Ensure eyes are properly positioned over ball.
• Path Direction: Work on neutral path through impact.
• Hand Control: Keep hands quiet through stroke.
• Ball Position: Check consistent ball position.
• Face Control: Monitor face angle through stroke.

Feel Tips:

• Feel shoulders controlling the stroke.
• Sense the putter moving straight back and through.
• Feel quiet hands through impact.
• Imagine the ball starting on line.
• Feel your eyes directly over the ball.

Putting Thoughts:

• "Shoulders control"
• "Straight back"
• "Quiet hands"
• "Down the line"
• "Stay square"

Drills to Fix Pulled Putts:

1. Alignment Rod Drill: Use rods to check path and face.
2. Coin Drill: Practice with coin behind ball for path.
3. Eye Line Check: Use mirror to verify eye position.
4. Path Board Work: Use putting rail for straight path.
5. Face Control Drill: Practice with alignment line on ball.

Instructional Videos:

Putting - Off-Center Strikes

Off-center strikes in putting occur when contact is made away from the sweet spot of the putter face. These mishits can significantly affect both distance control and directional accuracy, often leading to inconsistent results even when your read and stroke are good.

Common Causes:

• Poor Eye Position: Eyes not properly aligned over the ball.
• Inconsistent Setup: Varying distance from the ball.
• Head Movement: Moving head during stroke.
• Poor Center Awareness: Lack of awareness of putter's sweet spot.
• Unstable Lower Body: Lower body movement during stroke.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Consistency: Develop consistent setup routine.
• Eye Position: Ensure eyes are directly over or slightly inside the ball.
• Sweet Spot Awareness: Practice feeling center contact.
• Stability: Maintain stable lower body throughout stroke.
• Visual Focus: Keep eyes fixed on contact point.

Feel Tips:

• Feel centered contact with the sweet spot.
• Sense stable lower body throughout stroke.
• Feel eyes remaining still over the ball.
• Imagine striking through the equator of the ball.
• Feel consistent distance from ball at setup.

Putting Thoughts:

• "Center contact"
• "Stable lower body"
• "Eyes still"
• "Sweet spot"
• "Solid strike"

Drills to Fix Off-Center Strikes:

1. Impact Tape Drill: Use impact tape to monitor strike pattern.
2. Coin Balance Drill: Practice with coin balanced on putter head.
3. Gate Drill: Use tees to create narrow gates.
4. Mirror Setup: Practice setup position with putting mirror.
5. Sweet Spot Path: Practice with alignment stick for path.

Instructional Videos:

Green Reading - AimPoint Express

AimPoint Express is a scientific green reading method that uses feel and a simple system to determine break. This method has gained popularity among tour professionals and amateurs alike for its consistency and reliability in reading greens.

Key Concepts:

• Zero Line: The fall line of the green (straight uphill/downhill).
• Slope Percentage: Feel the slope through your feet (1-7% scale).
• Distance Control: Adjust read based on putt length.
• Starting Point: Find precise starting line using fingers.
• Speed Control: Account for green speed in calculations.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Find Zero Line: Identify the straight uphill/downhill direction.
2. Read Slope %: Feel slope intensity through feet (1-7).
3. Distance Factor: Consider putt length in calculation.
4. Finger System: Use fingers width to determine break amount.
5. Aim Point: Pick specific spot to aim based on calculation.

Common Mistakes:

• Wrong Zero Line: Misidentifying the fall line direction.
• Incorrect Feel: Not calibrating slope feel properly.
• Speed Issues: Not accounting for green speed.
• Distance Errors: Wrong adjustment for putt length.
• Poor Execution: Not committing to the read.

Professional Tips:

• Practice Calibration: Work on feeling different slope percentages.
• Use Reference Points: Find known slopes for comparison.
• Speed Integration: Factor in green speed consistently.
• Confidence Building: Trust the system and commit to reads.
• Regular Practice: Develop feel through repetition.

Instructional Videos:

Green Reading - Plumb-Bobbing

Plumb-bobbing is a traditional green reading technique that uses gravity to help determine break direction and severity. While its effectiveness is debated, many golfers find it helpful as part of their overall green reading process.

Key Concepts:

• Gravity Line: Using vertical reference for break direction.
• Eye Dominance: Understanding which eye to use.
• Proper Technique: Correct stance and grip position.
• Visual Reference: Using putter as plumb line.
• Break Direction: Interpreting the visual information.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Eye Dominance: Determine your dominant eye.
2. Stance Setup: Position behind ball on extension of target line.
3. Grip Position: Hold putter at top of grip.
4. Alignment: Let putter hang freely.
5. Read Break: Observe direction putter appears to tilt.

Common Mistakes:

• Wrong Eye: Using non-dominant eye for reading.
• Poor Position: Not standing directly behind ball.
• Grip Issues: Not allowing putter to hang freely.
• Misinterpretation: Reading the wrong direction.
• Over-Reliance: Using only this method for reading.

Professional Tips:

• Combine Methods: Use with other green reading techniques.
• Practice Accuracy: Verify reads with actual results.
• Position Check: Ensure proper setup behind ball.
• Visual Focus: Keep both eyes open during process.
• Confirmation Tool: Use as secondary read confirmation.

Instructional Videos:

Putting - Tempo

Putting tempo is crucial for consistency and distance control. A smooth, repeatable tempo helps maintain accuracy and improves overall putting performance. Many great putters have different tempos, but they all maintain consistency in their individual rhythm.

Key Concepts:

• Rhythm: Consistent back and through motion.
• Timing: 2:1 ratio of backswing to forward swing.
• Flow: Smooth transition throughout stroke.
• Repeatability: Same tempo regardless of length.
• Personal Style: Finding your natural rhythm.

Professional Advice:

• Metronome Practice: Use audio cues for consistency.
• Length Control: Adjust stroke length, not tempo.
• Practice Routine: Develop pre-putt routine.
• Breathing: Incorporate consistent breathing pattern.
• Focus Point: Maintain steady rhythm under pressure.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like a pendulum swinging.
• Count rhythm in your head (1-2-3).
• Listen to stroke's sound for consistency.
• Feel smooth transition points.
• Maintain same tempo for all lengths.

Common Mistakes:

• Rushing: Accelerating through impact.
• Deceleration: Slowing down through impact.
• Inconsistent Rhythm: Varying tempo with length.
• Tension: Grip pressure affecting tempo.
• Poor Transition: Jerky change of direction.

Drills for Better Tempo:

1. Metronome Drill: Practice with metronome beats.
2. Pendulum Drill: Practice with eyes closed.
3. Clock Drill: Use clock positions for consistency.
4. Tee Gate Drill: Maintain tempo through gates.
5. Distance Control: Practice varying lengths with same tempo.

Instructional Videos:

Putting - Lag Putting

Lag putting is the art of distance control on long putts, with the primary goal of getting the ball close enough for an easy second putt. Mastering lag putting is crucial for minimizing three-putts and maintaining a competitive score.

Key Concepts:

• Distance Control: Primary focus on speed, not line.
• Safe Zones: Identifying optimal leave areas.
• Green Reading: Understanding multiple breaks.
• Speed Adaptation: Adjusting to green conditions.
• Visualization: Seeing the entire ball path.

Professional Advice:

• Target Selection: Focus on speed over perfect line.
• Practice Strategy: Use variable distance drills.
• Green Reading: Break down multiple segments.
• Mental Approach: Think "two-putt" not "make".
• Speed Control: Develop feel for different distances.

Feel Tips:

• Feel the weight of the stroke.
• Visualize water flowing to the hole.
• Focus on smooth acceleration.
• Listen to the sound of a good roll.
• Feel consistent tempo regardless of length.

Common Mistakes:

• Deceleration: Slowing down through impact.
• Poor Reading: Missing multiple breaks.
• Line Fixation: Focusing too much on line vs. speed.
• Tension: Gripping too tight on long putts.
• Target Selection: Aiming at hole vs. safe zone.

Drills for Better Lag Putting:

1. Ladder Drill: Practice putting to multiple distances.
2. Clock Drill: Putt to different clock positions.
3. Three-Zone Drill: Practice safe zones around hole.
4. Long-Short Drill: Alternate between distances.
5. Bucket Drill: Practice to larger target first.

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Hozel/Heel Strikes

Hozel or heel strikes with wedges are particularly problematic as they can lead to severe distance control issues and unpredictable ball flight. These mishits occur when contact is made toward the hozel or heel of the club, often resulting in shots that shoot right with minimal spin and poor trajectory.

Common Causes:

• Standing Too Close: Ball position too near to the body.
• Poor Weight Distribution: Too much weight on toes.
• Casting Motion: Early release of the wedge.
• Inside Takeaway: Club too far inside on backswing.
• Poor Setup: Hands positioned too close to body.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Stand slightly farther from ball with wedges.
• Weight Balance: Feel weight in middle of feet.
• Hand Position: Arms hanging naturally at address.
• Club Path: Work on more vertical swing plane.
• Impact Position: Focus on center-face contact.

Feel Tips:

• Feel arms extending away from body.
• Sense clubhead moving outward slightly on takeaway.
• Feel weight balanced through feet.
• Imagine hitting ball with center of clubface.
• Feel hands leading through impact.

Wedge-Specific Drills:

1. Alignment Rod Setup: Place rod parallel to target line for proper distance.
2. Spray Pattern Check: Use foot spray to monitor strike pattern.
3. Penny Drill: Place penny on ground where hozel meets shaft.
4. Path Board: Use board to groove proper swing path.
5. Balance Drill: Practice with feet together.

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Toe Strikes

Toe strikes with wedges typically result in shots that lack power and spin, often pulling left of target. With wedge shots requiring precise distance control, toe strikes can be particularly costly around the green.

Common Causes:

• Standing Too Far: Ball position too far from body.
• Weight on Heels: Poor weight distribution.
• Arms Disconnected: Arms separating from body.
• Outside Takeaway: Club moving too far outside.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Check: Position ball closer to body with wedges.
• Weight Position: Center weight slightly forward.
• Arm Connection: Keep arms connected to body.
• Swing Path: Work on neutral to slightly inside path.
• Impact Position: Maintain spine angle through strike.

Feel Tips:

• Feel arms staying close to body.
• Sense clubhead staying square longer.
• Feel centered weight distribution.
• Imagine hitting ball with center of face.
• Feel lower body stability through impact.

Wedge-Specific Drills:

1. Towel Drill: Place towel under arms for connection.
2. Impact Tape: Use tape to monitor strike pattern.
3. Alignment Station: Setup with proper ball position.
4. Half Swing Practice: Focus on center contact with shorter swings.
5. Connection Drill: Practice with glove under trailing arm.

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Fat Shots

Fat shots with wedges are particularly problematic as they can severely affect distance control and spin generation. When a wedge strikes the ground before the ball, the loss of speed and altered loft can make these shots especially difficult to recover from in the short game.

Common Causes with Wedges:

• Weight Back: Not enough forward shaft lean at impact.
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact with wedges.
• Ball Position: Ball too far forward for wedge shots.
• Steep Attack: Too steep angle of attack with wedges.
• Deceleration: Slowing club through impact zone.

Wedge-Specific Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Ball center to slightly back with wedges.
• Weight Distribution: 60-70% on lead foot for wedges.
• Shaft Lean: Maintain forward shaft lean through impact.
• Swing Arc: Shallow out swing path slightly for wedges.
• Club Selection: Consider using less lofted wedge for better contact.

Wedge-Specific Feel Tips:

• Feel hands leading clubhead through impact.
• Sense weight staying forward on wedge shots.
• Feel chest rotating through shot.
• Imagine brushing grass after ball.
• Feel steady lower body with wedges.

Wedge-Specific Drills:

1. Dollar Bill Drill: Practice striking ball without disturbing bill behind.
2. Towel Drill: Practice from towel for clean contact.
3. Shaft Lean Drill: Practice with alignment rod for proper lean.
4. Line Drawing: Draw line in sand, strike ball first.
5. Half Shot Practice: Master contact with shorter swings.

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Thin Shots

Thin shots with wedges are particularly challenging as they often result in low, running shots with minimal spin when height and control are needed. The high loft of wedges makes thin contact especially problematic for distance and trajectory control.

Common Causes with Wedges:

• Early Weight Shift: Moving off the ball with wedges.
• Poor Posture: Standing up through wedge shots.
• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance for wedges.
• Hand Position: Hands too far forward at impact.
• Eye Movement: Looking up early on wedge shots.

Wedge-Specific Professional Advice:

• Setup Check: Slightly more knee flex for wedges.
• Weight Position: Stable weight through impact.
• Ball Position: Center to slightly forward for clean contact.
• Swing Bottom: Focus on consistent low point.
• Visual Focus: Keep eyes on contact point longer.

Wedge-Specific Feel Tips:

• Feel lower body stability with wedges.
• Sense club brushing grass through impact.
• Feel chest rotating over ball.
• Imagine taking a small divot after ball.
• Feel arms and body connected.

Wedge-Specific Drills:

1. Tee Drill: Practice with ball slightly teed up.
2. Coin Contact: Place coin behind ball for focus point.
3. Divot Practice: Focus on consistent shallow divots.
4. Impact Bag Work: Feel proper impact position.
5. Split Hand Practice: Improve feel for clubhead.

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Too High Trajectory

While getting the ball airborne is important, shots that launch too high can result in significant distance loss and reduced control, especially in windy conditions. Understanding how to optimize your launch angle can help you achieve better distance and consistency with your irons.

Common Causes:

• Excessive Upward Strike: Too much upward attack angle.
• Ball Position: Ball too far forward in stance.
• High Dynamic Loft: Adding loft through impact.
• Casting: Early release of club in downswing.
• Equipment Issues: Club loft or shaft flex mismatch.

Professional Advice:

• Attack Angle: Work on a more descending blow
• Ball Position: Move ball slightly back in stance
• Equipment Check: Verify proper shaft flex and loft
• Release Pattern: Focus on forward shaft lean at impact
• Hand Position: Maintain forward hand position through impact

Feel Tips:

• Feel hands leading through impact
• Sense a lower finish position
• Feel like you're hitting a punch shot
• Imagine trapping the ball against the ground
• Feel your weight staying forward through impact

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hands lead the clubhead"
• "Drive through the ball"
• "Lower trajectory"
• "Hands lead clubhead"
• "Compress the ball"

Drills:

1. Low Point Control: Practice controlling bottom of swing arc
2. Half-Shot Practice: Work on punch shots
3. Impact Bag Drill: Feel proper hand position
4. Ball Position Drill: Practice with ball slightly back
5. Finish Position Drill: Work on lower, controlled finish

Instructional Videos:

Iron Shots - Too Low Trajectory

Low iron shots can significantly reduce carry distance and stopping power. These shots often result in reduced control and difficulty holding greens. Understanding why your iron shots are too low is crucial for optimizing your ball flight and maximizing control.

Common Causes:

• Early Extension: Standing up through impact.
• Excessive Forward Shaft Lean: Too much shaft lean at impact.
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight staying back through impact.
• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance.
• Casting: Early release of lag angle.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Check ball position and spine angle.
• Impact Dynamics: Work on proper shaft lean.
• Weight Transfer: Focus on forward weight shift.
• Release Pattern: Improve release timing.
• Equipment Check: Verify proper shaft flex and loft.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting up on the ball more.
• Sense your weight moving forward smoothly.
• Feel your arms extending through impact.
• Imagine throwing the clubhead to the sky.
• Feel a higher finish position.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hit up and out"
• "High finish"
• "Extend through"
• "Release to target"
• "Smooth transition"

Drills:

1. Tee Drill: Practice hitting off tee for proper contact.
2. Impact Bag Work: Feel proper impact position.
3. Finish Position Drill: Focus on high, full finish.
4. Ball Position Practice: Work with alignment rods.
5. Weight Transfer Drill: Use pressure plates or foam.

Instructional Videos:

Wedge Shots - Too High

When full wedge shots fly too high, they become difficult to control in terms of both distance and accuracy. Excessive height can lead to shots being affected by wind, reduced roll-out, and inconsistent distances, particularly problematic for scoring clubs.

Common Causes:

• Ball Position: Ball too far forward in stance.
• Dynamic Loft: Adding loft at impact.
• Swing Path: Too steep attack angle.
• Hand Position: Hands too far back at impact.
• Weight Distribution: Weight staying back through impact.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Ball position slightly back of center.
• Impact Dynamics: Maintain forward shaft lean.
• Weight Transfer: Feel weight forward through impact.
• Club Selection: Consider using less loft.
• Swing Path: Work on shallower approach.

Feel Tips:

• Feel hands leading through impact.
• Sense a lower finish position.
• Feel like you're hitting a punch shot.
• Imagine keeping the ball under a ceiling.
• Feel clubhead staying low through impact.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Hands forward"
• "Low to low"
• "Control the trajectory"
• "Compress the ball"
• "Hold the angle"

Drills:

1. Low Point Control: Practice controlling bottom of swing arc.
2. Half-Shot Practice: Work on punch shots.
3. Impact Bag Work: Feel proper hand position.
4. Ball Position Drill: Practice with ball slightly back.
5. Finish Position Drill: Work on lower, controlled finish.

Instructional Videos:

Wedge Shots - Too Low

When wedge shots come out too low, they lose the stopping power needed for precision approach shots. Low trajectory wedge shots often result in too much roll, making it difficult to control distances and attack pin positions, especially on firm greens.

Common Causes:

• Excessive Forward Shaft Lean: Too much shaft lean at impact.
• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance.
• Weight Distribution: Too much forward weight at address.
• Hand Position: Hands too far forward through impact.
• Club Selection: Using too little loft for the shot.

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Ball position center to slightly forward.
• Impact Position: Moderate shaft lean only.
• Weight Balance: Even weight distribution.
• Club Selection: Consider more loft when needed.
• Swing Path: Allow for slightly ascending blow.

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're throwing the ball high.
• Sense the clubhead releasing through impact.
• Feel your arms extending upward after impact.
• Imagine the ball climbing up a wall.
• Feel your body rotating through to a high finish.

Swing Thoughts:

• "Release to the target"
• "High finish"
• "Soft hands"
• "Let it float"
• "Full extension"

Drills:

1. High Point Drill: Practice hitting over an obstacle.
2. Finish Position Work: Focus on high, full finish.
3. Release Drill: Practice proper release timing.
4. Ball Position Practice: Work with alignment rods.
5. Weight Transfer Drill: Use pressure plates or foam.

Wedge-Specific Tips:

• Club Selection: Use bounce effectively.
• Setup Adjustments: Open face slightly when needed.
• Speed Control: Maintain speed through impact.
• Practice Routine: Work on varying trajectories.
• Course Management: Account for roll-out on low shots.

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Hook

A hooked wedge shot curves dramatically from right to left, affecting both distance control and accuracy. Understanding and fixing this issue is crucial for consistent wedge play.

Common Causes:

• Closed Clubface: Face closed relative to path
• Inside-Out Path: Swing path too much from in-to-out
• Strong Grip: Hands rotated too far right
• Early Release: Premature hand rotation
• Poor Body Rotation: Arms outrace body

Professional Advice:

• Grip Check: Ensure neutral grip position
• Path Control: Work on neutral path
• Release Timing: Maintain forward shaft lean
• Body Rotation: Complete turn through impact
• Setup Position: Check alignment and posture

Feel Tips:

• Feel hands quiet through impact
• Sense body rotating through shot
• Feel clubface staying square longer
• Imagine cutting across the ball slightly
• Feel weight staying forward

Drills:

1. Path Drill: Use alignment sticks for path
2. Face Control: Split-hand practice
3. Release Drill: Hold-off through impact
4. Body Turn: Step-through practice
5. Connection: Towel under arms drill

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Slice

A sliced wedge shot curves from left to right, leading to distance and accuracy issues.

Common Causes:

• Open Clubface: Face open to path
• Out-to-In Path: Cutting across the ball
• Weak Grip: Hands too far left
• Poor Weight Transfer: Weight back

Professional Advice:

• Grip Position: Check grip strength
• Path Direction: Work on inside path
• Weight Transfer: Forward at impact
• Face Control: Square through impact

Swing Thoughts:

• "Feel hands rotate through"
• "Swing more from inside"
• "Turn through the shot"
• "Stay connected in arms"

Drills:

1. Path Training: Inside path drill
2. Impact Position: Forward shaft lean
3. Release Work: Hand rotation drill
4. Connection: Towel under arms

Key Changes:

• Strengthen grip slightly
• Square to slightly closed stance
• Feel inside-out path
• Active hand rotation

Wedges - Too Much Spin

Excessive spin with wedges can cause shots to balloon or spin back too much, making distance control difficult.

Common Causes:

• Steep Attack Angle: Too much downward strike
• Too Much Speed: Excessive swing speed
• Wrong Ball Type: Using high-spin golf balls
• Grooves Too Sharp: New or recently cleaned wedges
• Poor Contact: Hitting too high on face

Professional Advice:

• Attack Angle: Shallow out the approach
• Speed Control: Focus on tempo
• Equipment: Consider ball type
• Contact Point: Hit center to slightly low
• Club Selection: Maybe less loft needed

Drills:

1. Shallow Path: Path board practice
2. Speed Control: Tempo counting
3. Contact Point: Face tape feedback
4. Distance Control: Landing spot focus
5. Feel Shots: Soft hands practice

Wedges - Too Little Spin

Insufficient spin with wedges results in shots that release too much and don't stop quickly enough on the green.

Common Causes:

• Poor Contact: Not clean enough strike
• Worn Grooves: Old wedges
• Dirty Club Face: Debris in grooves
• Wrong Ball Type: Using low-spin balls
• Speed Issues: Too little speed

Professional Advice:

• Contact Quality: Focus on clean strike
• Equipment Check: Maintain wedge grooves
• Ball Selection: Consider higher spin balls
• Speed Control: Maintain adequate speed
• Loft Usage: Use proper loft for shot

Drills:

1. Strike Quality: Impact bag work
2. Speed Training: Swing speed practice
3. Contact Point: Face tape feedback
4. Clean Contact: Ball first drills
5. Compression: Feel drills for compression

Wedges - Flop Shot

The flop shot, mastered by players like Phil Mickelson, is a high-lofted shot designed to stop quickly on the green. This shot is essential when you need to get the ball up quickly and stop it fast, especially over obstacles.

Common Causes of Poor Flop Shots:

• Deceleration: Fear causing slowdown through impact
• Poor Face Control: Not maintaining open face through impact
• Incorrect Setup: Not enough shaft lean and face opening
• Ball Position: Ball too far back in stance
• Fear Factor: Lack of commitment to the shot

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Ball forward, face wide open (Phil Mickelson style)
• Weight Distribution: 60% on lead foot despite ball position
• Swing Path: Outside-in with high hands (Gary Player technique)
• Club Selection: Highest lofted wedge available
• Speed Control: Maintain speed through impact like Seve Ballesteros

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're throwing sand out of bunker
• Imagine skimming butter across toast
• Feel hands staying high through finish
• Sense clubface staying open to sky
• Feel full body rotation through shot

Drills:

1. Water Splash Drill: Practice splashing water for proper attack angle
2. Towel Drill: Hit over towel for height control
3. Face Control: Practice with alignment stick for face awareness
4. Speed Control: Three different height flops to same target
5. Landing Spot: Focus on specific landing areas

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Bump and Run

The bump and run, a favorite of Tiger Woods in his prime, is a low-trajectory shot that maximizes control through ground interaction. This shot, perfected by legends like Jack Nicklaus, is essential for firm conditions and windy situations.

Common Causes of Poor Bump and Runs:

• Wrong Club Selection: Too much loft for conditions
• Poor Weight Distribution: Weight back causing poor contact
• Wrist Action: Too active wrists through impact
• Ball Position: Too far forward in stance
• Deceleration: Lack of follow-through

Professional Advice:

• Club Choice: Use 8-iron through SW (Ben Crenshaw method)
• Setup Position: Narrow stance, weight forward like Tom Watson
• Hand Position: Forward press for control (Jordan Spieth style)
• Swing Length: Length of backswing matches follow-through
• Body Motion: Quiet lower body like Steve Stricker

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're putting with a wedge
• Sense arms and chest connected
• Feel hands leading through impact
• Imagine rolling ball like a putt
• Feel steady lower body

Drills:

1. Clock Method: Practice different length shots
2. Coin Drill: Place coin for precise contact
3. Through-Gate Practice: Roll through tee gates
4. Landing Spot: Focus on specific landing areas
5. Connection Drill: Arms connected to body

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Skull/Thin Shots

Skulled chips, often called "bladed" shots by pros like Paul Azinger, occur when the leading edge of the club strikes the middle or top of the ball, sending it screaming across the green. This common amateur mistake can turn a simple chip into a scoring nightmare.

Common Causes:

• Weight Distribution: Too much weight on back foot
• Early Extension: Standing up through impact
• Ball Position: Too far forward in stance
• Hand Action: Flipping at impact
• Fear Response: Lifting to help ball up (Tom Watson's noted mistake)

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: 70% weight on lead foot (Phil Mickelson method)
• Shaft Lean: Maintain forward shaft lean like Steve Stricker
• Eye Position: Eyes over ball or slightly inside
• Grip Pressure: Light grip pressure (Dave Pelz scale 4/10)
• Body Motion: Stay level through impact

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting down on a penny
• Imagine brushing the grass under the ball
• Feel hands leading clubhead
• Sense chest rotating through shot
• Feel connected arms to body movement

Drills:

1. Penny Drill: Hit down on penny under ball position
2. Line Drill: Practice with alignment stick showing path
3. Weight Forward: Practice with back foot lifted
4. Impact Bag: Feel proper impact position
5. Towel Drill: Place towel behind ball to enforce downward strike

Instructional Videos:

Wedges - Duff/Fat Shots

Fat shots, where the club strikes the ground before the ball, are what Gary Player called "the great destroyer of confidence." These shots typically result in the ball traveling only a fraction of the intended distance, often staying short of the green.

Common Causes:

• Reverse Pivot: Weight shifting backward
• Early Release: Losing angles too soon
• Sway: Lower body moving laterally
• Eye Movement: Looking up too soon
• Deceleration: Slowing down through impact

Professional Advice:

• Setup: Ball position center to back (Tiger Woods method)
• Weight Distribution: 60/40 forward bias like Luke Donald
• Hand Position: Forward press (José María Olazábal style)
• Body Turn: Turn through, don't slide (Raymond Floyd tip)
• Eye Discipline: Keep head still through impact

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting through to target
• Sense hands leading through impact
• Feel weight staying forward
• Imagine skimming butter off toast
• Feel chest rotating through shot

Drills:

1. Line in Sand: Practice hitting in front of line
2. Dollar Bill Drill: Hit ball without touching placed bill
3. Weight Forward: Practice with back foot turned out
4. Path Board: Use board to check bottom of arc
5. Follow Through: Hold finish position

Instructional Videos:

Greenside Bunker Shots

Greenside bunker shots require specific technique and confidence to execute properly. The goal is to use the sand to lift the ball out with control, landing it softly on the green.

Common Causes of Poor Bunker Shots:

• Poor Setup: Incorrect stance width and ball position
• Digging: Club entering sand too steeply
• Deceleration: Slowing club through impact
• Wrong Entry Point: Hitting too close or far from ball
• Face Control: Not maintaining open clubface

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Wide stance, ball forward, hands neutral
• Club Selection: Most lofted wedge, face opened
• Entry Point: Enter sand 1-2 inches behind ball
• Speed Control: Maintain constant speed through sand
• Follow Through: Full finish for proper acceleration

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're throwing sand onto green
• Imagine drawing a line in the sand
• Feel your chest rotating through shot
• Sense clubface staying open to sky
• Feel splash of sand, not hit of ball

Drills:

1. Draw Line Drill: Practice hitting through line in sand
2. Dollar Bill Drill: Place bill behind ball as target
3. Splash Practice: Practice without ball, focus on sand
4. Distance Control: Practice different length shots
5. Face Control: Practice with alignment stick

Instructional Videos:

40-90 Yard Bunker Shots

Mid-range bunker shots are some of the most challenging in golf, requiring precise distance control and solid contact. These shots demand a blend of technical skill and feel to execute properly.

Common Challenges:

• Distance Control: Difficulty gauging how far to swing
• Ball Position: Inconsistent positioning leads to poor contact
• Sand Depth: Inconsistent depth of sand taken
• Club Selection: Choosing wrong club for the distance
• Technique Changes: Altering swing for different distances

Professional Advice:

• Setup Adjustments: Ball slightly forward, stance wider than normal
• Club Selection: Use less loft for longer shots
• Swing Length: Control distance with swing length, not speed
• Sand Interaction: Take less sand than greenside shots
• Follow Through: Complete finish for consistent contact

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're skimming the sand
• Maintain constant rhythm regardless of distance
• Let the club do the work through impact
• Feel chest and arms connected throughout
• Think "shallow" through the sand

Distance Control Tips:

1. Clock System: Use different swing lengths for different distances
2. Speed Control: Maintain consistent tempo
3. Landing Spot: Focus on specific landing areas
4. Practice Swings: Rehearse exact swing length needed
5. Visual Targets: Use intermediate targets for alignment

Instructional Videos:

100+ Yard Bunker Shots

Long bunker shots require a blend of power and precision, often being some of the most challenging shots in golf. The key is maintaining stability while creating clean contact to achieve both distance and accuracy.

Common Challenges:

• Balance: Maintaining stability in soft sand
• Clean Contact: Getting ball first contact
• Power Control: Generating distance without losing form
• Sand Depth: Taking too much sand on long shots
• Club Selection: Compensating for loss of distance

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Slightly wider stance, ball forward of center
• Club Selection: Take one club more than normal distance
• Dig Level: Feet set only slightly into sand
• Swing Path: Shallower attack angle than normal
• Weight Distribution: Stable 50/50 throughout swing

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're picking the ball clean
• Sense your lower body staying stable
• Feel a sweeping motion through impact
• Imagine skimming the sand's surface
• Feel full rotation through finish

Drills:

1. Footprint Drill: Practice from your footprints
2. Ball Position: Use alignment sticks to maintain consistent position
3. Speed Control: Practice different swing speeds while maintaining form
4. Balance Check: Hold finish position for 3 seconds
5. Clean Contact: Practice with ball teed slightly above sand

Instructional Videos:

Punch Shots - Wedges

Wedge punch shots are essential for controlling trajectory in windy conditions or when playing under obstacles. This shot requires precise technique to maintain control while reducing the ball flight.

Common Challenges:

• Ball Height: Difficulty keeping trajectory down
• Distance Control: Managing reduced carry distance
• Club Selection: Choosing appropriate wedge loft
• Contact Quality: Maintaining solid impact
• Release Control: Managing roll-out distance

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Ball back in stance, hands forward
• Club Selection: Less lofted wedge than normal
• Swing Length: Shorter backswing for control
• Follow Through: Abbreviated finish for low flight
• Weight Distribution: 60-70% on lead foot

Feel Tips:

• Feel hands leading through impact
• Sense a shorter follow-through
• Feel weight staying forward
• Imagine hitting under a ceiling
• Feel arms connected to body

Instructional Videos:

Punch Shots - Long Irons

Long iron punch shots are crucial for controlling ball flight in challenging conditions, particularly wind or when playing under tree branches. This shot combines power and control for maximum effectiveness.

Common Challenges:

• Trajectory Control: Maintaining consistent low flight
• Power Management: Balancing distance with control
• Strike Quality: Achieving clean contact
• Shot Shape: Controlling curve in wind
• Landing Angle: Managing roll-out

Professional Advice:

• Setup Position: Narrow stance, ball back, hands forward
• Club Selection: Consider one club more than normal
• Swing Path: Slightly steeper for downward strike
• Speed Control: Smooth tempo for consistency
• Finish Position: Low, abbreviated follow-through

Feel Tips:

• Feel like you're hitting under something
• Sense hands leading the clubhead
• Feel weight staying forward
• Imagine cutting the ball in half
• Feel arms connected through impact

Instructional Videos: