How to Hit Irons like the Pros – 10 Tips to Get You Started
How to Hit Irons like the Pros – 10 Tips to Get You Started
Distance control depends on how solidly you hit your irons. Unfortunately, many golfers find it tricky to master irons as they rely on their instincts. However, like anything else, you can master hitting iron with enough practice and know-how. Here are ten tips to get you started.
- Position your ball well
The position of your ball will determine its distance; it will go higher if you place it further away from you. However, most golfers put their balls in the middle. This position limits the golfer to just hitting behind it or thinning it. At a further position, however, the club will achieve full loft for optimal impact.
Olympic champion Justin Rose recommends positioning the ball about two to three inches behind your left heel. It will feel unusual at first, but you will become used to it with more practice.
- Study the course, then pick a club
Many golfers assume that the distance of the hole should determine the size of the club. To this end, many golfers choose 3-woods and drivers for making long shots. However, experts know better than this: it is the design of the course, not the distance that you should consider.
For instance, golf course designers trap players by putting in place barriers such as trees and bunkers. In this case, hybrid clubs may provide the needed power, but they lack efficiency.
- Use longer irons around greens
Suppose you are facing a chip of 40 yards from the green. Most experts in this situation go for sharp-edged wedges to get the job done. Most of them are effective with these wedges, but it takes them a lot of hours of training to master it. Beginners, however, stand little chance of success.
However, long clubs prove quite efficient in such situations; in fact, they were popular before the rise of the wedge technique. The secret of using such a club for this is to grip it with a putting grip with your hands almost on the metal, and then play it like a long putt.
- Maintain your rhythm with long irons
Your rhythm should remain consistent with clubs of varying sizes. Most golfers build their rhythm with short irons as they are the most popular and commonly used. Their rhythm changes when using longer irons, thus affecting their game and hot they hit the iron.
To build your rhythm with long clubs, begin by gripping them lower when swinging to achieve your normal rhythm, and then raising your hands slightly higher every time while trying to maintain it.
- Use tee pegs for [ar-3 holes
Tee pegs are more than just convenient for par-3 holes, especially when you are using a long iron. If you have played this hole before using a long iron, then you know it is difficult enough from a tight lie. As such, it becomes necessary to use a tee peg for greater accuracy and better penetration against obstacles such as strong winds.
- Know your yardage
Yardage, in this case, refers to three factors: the distance of the shot, how far you tend to hit your balls, and how far you are capable of hitting them. These three factors are important in determining the ideal size of the iron you should use. However, it is vital that you consider the fact that your yardage can differ by up to 50 yards between long and short irons, so you need to compensate for the variance.
- Don’t let your legs get in the way
As mentioned earlier, many golfers let their instincts determine how they handle long irons. Most of them tend to bend and rise to gain better leverage. However, while this feels right, it almost never ends well as it affects your swing and accuracy; you will catch it either fat or thin. As such, do not change your posture throughout the swing to maintain a constant height and encourage a sweeping action.
- Clive Tucker speaks
Clive Tucker does not generalize it. Instead, he illustrates how he perfects it every time. It starts by positioning the ball between the center of the left stance and the left foot. Next, the club leans forward slightly, and at the top of the swing, the arms extend fully. Finally, the weight shifts towards the left foot on the downswing and off goes the ball.
- Hit the ground
Remember: irons are designed to hit the ball into the air, so you do not have to force it. Instead, hit the ground as professional golfers do and let the iron do its work. If you try to force it, then the ball might go off trajectory.
- Stay calm and relaxed
Every pro golfer agrees that the secret behind consistency is to remain calm and relaxed regardless of the distance or the club you are using. Getting tensed will not only interfere with your swing and rhythm but also mess with your judgment. As such, do not think about the audience’s sentiments or the challenge ahead; just immerse your thoughts in the game and play as you would without pressure.
Always Have All Your Clubs with You
The only thing worse than poorly hitting your iron is not having the required iron in the first place. As such, always keep all your irons close-by as you may need any of them. If, however, you find it cumbersome to carry your irons around with you, then do not worry; RunRex will ship your golf bag to your desired destination in the shortest time possible.
