Golf.com https://golf.com en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.9.1 https://golf.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/cropped-favicon-512x512-1-32x32.png playsmart – Golf https://golf.com 32 32 https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15526167 Wed, 20 Sep 2023 14:45:25 +0000 <![CDATA[This backswing method will help you hit pro-style approach shots]]> Too many amateurs struggle with distance control when between clubs. GOLF Top 100 Teacher John Scott Rattan shares an easy method to help.

The post This backswing method will help you hit pro-style approach shots appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/approach-shots/backswing-method-pro-style-approach-shots/ Too many amateurs struggle with distance control when between clubs. GOLF Top 100 Teacher John Scott Rattan shares an easy method to help.

The post This backswing method will help you hit pro-style approach shots appeared first on Golf.

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Too many amateurs struggle with distance control when between clubs. GOLF Top 100 Teacher John Scott Rattan shares an easy method to help.

The post This backswing method will help you hit pro-style approach shots appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

It’s no secret, the closer your approach shots are to the hole, the more chances you have to save par — or even make a birdie or eagle. But sticking it close doesn’t mean just hitting it straight, it also means hitting it the correct distances.

After all, how many times have you hit a good quality shot (maybe even adding a club twirl), only to see the ball end up either short or long of the green?

If you’re the average golfer, probably more times than you’d like to admit!

When I’m at a PGA Tour event, one of the main focal points I work on with my players is distance control. Simply put, proficient golfers not only work on hitting it straight, left, and right, they work on — and excel at — hitting the ball the correct distances; both short and long.

Dial in your distance control with this backswing method

In order to hit pro-style approach shots, I always remind amateurs to use reference points in their swing, which will help them get a feel for how far the ball will go.

When between clubs, too many amateurs often take a longer backswing but slow down through impact. While many think this is how to avoid overhitting the ball, once the dynamic loft of the club comes into play, their distance control suffers.

Parker McLachlin, aka Short Game Chef, shows how amateurs can find the proper weight distribution and ball positioning for wedge shots
Use the stack and tilt method to hit perfect wedge shots from 50-125 yards
By: Nick Dimengo

The hardest way to predict how far the ball goes is to try and time it at impact. I would much rather you hit it harder with a shorter swing, than to try and slow down with a longer swing.

So what’s the trick to doing this right? By keeping both your body speed and pivot up, while still controlling the distance with the length of your backswing and follow through.

A good tip is to use my backswing method — a 1-1, 2-2, and full swing system — which will help to dial in your distances.

1. A 1-1 swing

A 1-1 swing refers to the lead arm being parallel in the backswing, and the trail arm being parallel in the follow through.

2. 2-2 swing

A 2-2 swing refers to a three-quarter backswing and finish.

3. Full swing

Full swing refers to a full backswing and full finish.

With the help of a launch monitor (available here), track the ball speeds and club speeds of the “stock” yardages. By doing this, you’ll be able to create a very helpful spreadsheet for your distance control on each one of your approach shots.

Now, it’s up to you whether you think about the backswing and follow through lengths on the course, since everyone is a little different in that regard. But in practice, knowing how far you take the club back and through will only help you feel each shot, allowing you to have better approach shots during your next round.

All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy a linked product, GOLF.COM may earn a fee. Pricing may vary.

Swing Caddie SC4 Simulator + Launch Monitor

$549.99
The Swing Caddie SC4 is both a complete simulator and a portable launch monitor. For use both indoors and outdoors, the SC4 delivers professional-grade swing and ball flight metrics. In simulator mode, the SC4 connects with the included MySwingCaddie App, providing a complete virtual display along with metrics and stats. To further enhance the simulator experience, the SC4 is fully compatible with E6 Connect / Optishot Orion and its suite of photorealistic courses (optional subscription). In outdoor use, the SC4 can be used as a standalone unit  (no smartphone required) with its vivid display featuring carry distance, launch direction, swing speed, ball speed, smash factor, launch angle, apex, and spin rate. For a more advanced experience, the SC4 connects directly to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth allowing golfers to save their tracked data, record their swings, and produce swing overlays. The included remote control, voice output of distance, and rechargeable Lithium Ion battery ensure both the highest level of experience and convenience. MAIN FUNCTIONS• Doppler Radar Launch Monitor & Simulator• Measures– Carry/Total Distance – Swing Speed– Ball Speed – Smash Factor– Apex (Max Height) – Launch Angle– Launch Direction – Spin Rate• Simulator App Integration (iOS, Android)• Play Photorealistic courses with Available E6 Connect / Optishot Orion• Free Simulator Driving Range Demo• Voice Output of Distance• Statistics for Each Club• Barometric Pressure Sensor• Modes– Practice – Target
View Product

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15526093 Mon, 18 Sep 2023 18:01:07 +0000 <![CDATA[How varying the clubface during practice can instantly improve your game]]> Before fixing anything major, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Ed Oldham shares his reasons why varying the clubface can instantly improve your game.

The post How varying the clubface during practice can instantly improve your game appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/varying-clubface-instantly-better-play-smart/ Before fixing anything major, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Ed Oldham shares his reasons why varying the clubface can instantly improve your game.

The post How varying the clubface during practice can instantly improve your game appeared first on Golf.

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Before fixing anything major, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Ed Oldham shares his reasons why varying the clubface can instantly improve your game.

The post How varying the clubface during practice can instantly improve your game appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

I use a launch monitor every day with students in my lessons, and while most monitors measure over 30 different parameters on each shot, there’s one parameter that has more influence than any other — the clubface angle at impact.

Did you know that the clubface has about 80 percent of the influence on the starting direction of the golf ball? Now you do, so it only further emphasizes the importance of squaring the clubface.

GOLF Top 100 Teacher Brian Mogg shares a tricky two-club drill to help GOLF Instruction Editor Nick Dimengo better square the clubface
By using this tricky 2-club drill, you’ll be able to keep the clubface square
By: Nick Dimengo

Understanding what creates the starting direction of a golf shot is important, which is where data from a launch monitor can really make a difference in your game.

If your ball starts to the right of the target, the face is pointing to the right at impact (often causing a slice for a right-handed player). If your ball starts to the left, the face is pointing left (leading to a hook for a right-handed player).

Many golfers incorrectly believe that the start line is determined by the path. In reality, it starts very close to where the face is pointing at impact.

Why varying the clubface is the solution to better shots

So how can you see more accurate shots on the course? By varying the clubface during practice.

Most golfers head to the range and attempt to hit perfect shots. But this isn’t the right approach, as research shows that variability in practice can improve learning.

GOLF Top 100 Teacher Jim Murphy shared his thoughts on focused golf practice, which should help amateurs concentrate more on each shot
Focused golf practice: Rules for concentrating on each shot for better play
By: Nick Dimengo

This is why I suggest varying your clubface for a few minutes in every practice session, which will enhance your ability to control the face at impact.

For higher handicaps, try hitting one to the left, one to the right, then one in the middle, all by changing the face angle at impact. Then try twisting the face closed, twisting the face open, and twisting the face to the right.

Better players can also do this, but I suggest doing so in smaller variations: slightly closed, slightly open, a little more closed, etc.

By varying the clubface during practice, you can then apply it to your next round. For example, if you’re hitting everything left or right of the target on the course, you’ll have the experience in your back pocket to adjust the face on the fly — all because of your time practicing it on the range.

So spend just a couple of minutes of every practice session varying your clubface; your game will be better because of it.

Rukket Sports Pathfinder Impact Mat™

$69.99
Are you looking for a golf training mat to help your golf game? The Rukket Pathfinder Impact Mat™ was designed with input from professional golfers and golf teachers to help players of all abilities improve their game. The strike mat tracks club face alignment and helps ensure clean contact with the ball while the foam pylons can be used to keep your swing on plane. Use all four pylons to practice hitting straighter shots or remove pylons to practice hitting draw or fade shots. It’s the most versatile golf swing practice mat available and works with every club in your bag! Features 2-in-1 golf swing training mat combining the features of an impact mat / strike mat and a swing path trainer to help golfers quickly identify and correct common swing problems like hooks and slices. It’s a golf swing impact / strike mat to help identify and correct club face alignment. Use the “velvet” turf to ensure you’re making clean contact with the ball. It’s also a golf swing training aid to help with swing plane alignment. Use it to fix a slice or a hook, and to practice hitting draw and fade shots. What’s in the Box (1) Rukket Pathfinder Impact Mat™ (4) Foam Pylons (1) Instruction Booklet Product Specs 25in x 13in x 0.8in RUKKET FAIR PLAY GUARANTEE & LIFETIME WARRANTY: At Rukket Sports we know you came to win. We also understand that in order to win you need to train hard, so that’s why we’re proud to offer the Rukket Fair Play Guarantee & Lifetime Warranty for no-risk purchasing plus outstanding USA-based customer service!
View Product

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15525966 Fri, 15 Sep 2023 15:46:51 +0000 <![CDATA[Half-wedge shot into the wind? Do this to strike it like a pro]]> Have a tough half-wedge shot into the wind? GOLF Top 100 Teacher Joey Wuertemberger has some tips on how to hit it like the pros.

The post Half-wedge shot into the wind? Do this to strike it like a pro appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/half-wedge-shot-wind-do-this-strike-like-pro/ Have a tough half-wedge shot into the wind? GOLF Top 100 Teacher Joey Wuertemberger has some tips on how to hit it like the pros.

The post Half-wedge shot into the wind? Do this to strike it like a pro appeared first on Golf.

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Have a tough half-wedge shot into the wind? GOLF Top 100 Teacher Joey Wuertemberger has some tips on how to hit it like the pros.

The post Half-wedge shot into the wind? Do this to strike it like a pro appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

Hitting the half-wedge shot into the green is extremely important regardless of weather conditions, but it gets extra tricky when you’re playing one into the wind.

Having the ability to flight the wedge and control both the trajectory and spin is vital, and it’s not something that comes very naturally to the amateur player.

But there are ways to hit the half-wedge shot into the wind like a pro — you just need to know some important steps prior to even addressing your ball.

How to conquer the half-wedge shot into the wind

Below, I provide a few key things to keep in mind in order to pull off the half-wedge shot successfully. By applying them to your game, you’ll become a whiz when dealing with this difficult situation.

1. Club up and dial in your setup

At your setup, make sure to position the ball in the middle of your stance and maintain a level shoulder tilt with the shaft leaning just slightly forward.

Remember to club up by 1-2 clubs, as this will instantly help you pierce the trajectory window that you’re looking for and will be pivotal to ensure that you don’t take too big of swing.

2. Keep your weight forward

Start with more weight on your lead side, as this will help remind you to drive more weight forward during the downswing.

In the backswing, when the lead arm gets parallel to the ground, this is the point in the swing when you need to start driving your weight back to your lead foot.

As you begin to feel your weight starting to move forward, you’ll hit this shot with a flat wrist position. This helps you take some of the loft off the club.

3. Use a three-quarter finish

The half-wedge shot is one that you’re primarily hitting with your body and your rotation — so the hands and arms will be very passive through impact.

But even after impact, your job isn’t quite done just yet. So continue to drive the weight forward to the front side, making sure you stick to your three-quarter finish.

Divot Board

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Introducing the Divot Board, your ultimate golfing companion for immediate feedback and swing correction. This game-changing board reads your divots, providing real-time data on ball flight and helping you improve your technique. Experience the power of instant feedback and elevate your game with this portable and user-friendly device. Perfect for golfers of all levels. Get the Divot Board and take your golfing journey to new heights.
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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15525818 Wed, 13 Sep 2023 19:19:30 +0000 <![CDATA[Use a tee in your grip to help fix your ball flight. Here's how]]> In today's Play Smart, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Sarah Stone shares how to fix your ball flight — and it's as easy as putting a tee in your grip.

The post Use a tee in your grip to help fix your ball flight. Here’s how appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/use-golf-tee-grip-help-ball-flight-sarah-stone/ In today's Play Smart, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Sarah Stone shares how to fix your ball flight — and it's as easy as putting a tee in your grip.

The post Use a tee in your grip to help fix your ball flight. Here’s how appeared first on Golf.

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In today's Play Smart, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Sarah Stone shares how to fix your ball flight — and it's as easy as putting a tee in your grip.

The post Use a tee in your grip to help fix your ball flight. Here’s how appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

Plenty of you reading this may have played a sport like tennis, baseball, or hockey while growing up. Much like golf, these sports require you to grip around a handle using your thumb — which can hurt the chances of controlling it.

As many of us know, golf requires strong hands in order to grip the club, allowing the path to stay on plane for a flush shot.

Unfortunately, keeping the clubface square at impact is still a major problem lots of players have, which is why inconsistent slices, hooks, or shanks may occur.

Many amateurs struggle with slicing the golf ball. But GOLF Top 100 Teacher Trent Wearner suggests using a natural grip to fix the problem
Can’t stop slicing? It’s time to use a more natural grip. Here’s how
By: Trent Wearner, Top 100 Teacher

But this rarely happens with the most skilled golfers, as they’re able to create a connection between their trail hand and thumb when gripping the club. I like to refer to it as creating a penguin “flipper” with your entire hand.

Despite where your current skill level is as a golfer, you can work towards doing something similar — and it only requires sticking a tee between both your trail hand and your thumb.

Here’s how it should look.

Image via Sarah Stone

By using a tee in your grip (as seen above), you’ll create a stabilizing point on your club as you take your backswing. So at the top of your swing, the club will have less room to drop down or collapse.

Another benefit of this drill is that it will help quiet your hands. So you’ll be able to avoid that feeling of a throwing movement from the top of the swing to the downswing.

I’ve found this drill is not only helpful (but easy) for many of my students, and they’re able to have much more control over the delivery of the clubface. So stick a tee in it and try it out for yourself!

Swing Arc

$44.95
The Swing Arc is a very versatile golf training aid. It provides great feedback on your golf swing and will teach you the proper path to hit draws and fades. It can be used for full swing, chipping, pitching and even bunker shots. It is made out of stainless steel guaranteeing the consistency of the arc. Suitable for right and left handed golfers.
View Product

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15525599 Mon, 11 Sep 2023 17:50:51 +0000 <![CDATA[3 things you must do to bomb your driver, according to a Top 100 Teacher]]> Every golfer wants to smash driver. Here are GOLF Top 100 Teacher Jason Birnbaum's 3 keys to maximizing your power off the tee.

The post 3 things you must do to bomb your driver, according to a Top 100 Teacher appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/driving/how-to-drive-for-dough-jason-birnbaum/ Every golfer wants to smash driver. Here are GOLF Top 100 Teacher Jason Birnbaum's 3 keys to maximizing your power off the tee.

The post 3 things you must do to bomb your driver, according to a Top 100 Teacher appeared first on Golf.

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Every golfer wants to smash driver. Here are GOLF Top 100 Teacher Jason Birnbaum's 3 keys to maximizing your power off the tee.

The post 3 things you must do to bomb your driver, according to a Top 100 Teacher appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

Drive for show and putt for dough? One thing that driving distance stats have proven over the last several years is that it might be time to rethink that phrase.

Just look at some of the best players on the PGA Tour and it’s obvious they know how to drive for show and dough.

tiger woods on driving range
How to hit a golf ball 300 yards: the simple science behind smashing drives
By: Ryan Barath

There’s no question that, for all levels of golfers, the driver is the most important club in the bag. If you want to lower your scores, you’ve got to drive it longer and straighter — so learning how to make this club your biggest weapon is essential.

For those looking to smash their driver and start impressing their playing partners, follow these three simple tips.

3 ways to hammer your driver every time

Ask golfers what they wish they had more of, and you’ll hear a common refrain: “more distance.”

But it takes more than just swinging out of your spikes to unleash the full potential of your driver. The tips below will help provide the foundation you need to maximize both speed and power, ultimately leading to increased yardages from the tee box.

1. Master the setup

There are three keys to having a good driver setup:

  1. Wide stance for a stable base
  2. Forward ball position to promote an upward sweep at impact
  3. Tilting your shoulders away from the target and slightly closed, which helps to promote an in-to-out swing path

By doing these three keys in your driver setup, you’ll be able to hit a more natural draw spin, which will maximize distance.

2. Get the right equipment for YOU

There’s no need to break the bank and buy exotic heads and shafts, but having the correct loft (more is always better) and shaft flex customized to your swing speed can make a huge difference.

Swing speeds under 100 mph are more suited for regular flexed shafts, while speeds over 100 mph are better for stiff and sometimes extra stiff shafts.

True Spec Golf is a great option when getting fit for (and building) custom clubs.

3. Hit the ball as hard as you can

This might sound obvious, but most golfers are still tentative on the course when it comes to actually swinging the driver hard, which leads to a major loss in power.

Hit the ball hard with abandon, even if that means giving up some accuracy.

SuperSpeed Golf Training System

$379.99
The Speed Training System of Choice for Padraig Harrington, 3x Major Winner and 2024 World Golf Hall of Fame Inductee.Realize the dream of more distance with our original overspeed training system. This system has helped hundreds of thousands of golfers increase their swing speed and create more powerful, consistent golf swings.This system includes our 3 specifically weighted training clubs and access to our full online training program. The research is clear showing 5% swing speed gains in about 6 weeks of regular practice.Choose your appropriate set and then choose your tech to track your speed gains.  BUNDLE YOUR SET WITH TRACKING TECH FOR UP TO $80 OFF! Choose the MEN’S set if you use an X, S, or R flex driver and/or swing above 90MPH.  Not sure which set you need? Take our quiz here!
View Product

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15525261 Fri, 08 Sep 2023 15:25:39 +0000 <![CDATA[Can't stop slicing? It's time to use a more natural grip. Here's how]]> Many amateurs struggle with slicing the golf ball. But GOLF Top 100 Teacher Trent Wearner suggests using a natural grip to fix the problem.

The post Can’t stop slicing? It’s time to use a more natural grip. Here’s how appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/stop-slicing-golf-ball-natural-grip-play-smart/ Many amateurs struggle with slicing the golf ball. But GOLF Top 100 Teacher Trent Wearner suggests using a natural grip to fix the problem.

The post Can’t stop slicing? It’s time to use a more natural grip. Here’s how appeared first on Golf.

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Many amateurs struggle with slicing the golf ball. But GOLF Top 100 Teacher Trent Wearner suggests using a natural grip to fix the problem.

The post Can’t stop slicing? It’s time to use a more natural grip. Here’s how appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

Can’t stop slicing the golf ball? If you’re an amateur golfer, this is probably an issue that continues to haunt your game round after round.

Sure, it has to do with your clubface angle at impact, but, before just assuming it always has something to do with your swing path, have you reconsidered how you grip the golf club?

There’s a good reason why it’s challenging for the average golfer to grip the club in a reasonable manner — so if you slice the ball, here’s where you need to start to rethink things.

Stop slicing by reworking your grip

Most people put their hands on the club’s grip in a way that creates an open clubface at impact. When this happens, they often establish their grip while the shaft and body are in the address position, instead of where the shaft and their body need to get at impact. This is why many players have more consistency slicing than they do hitting it straight.

When they put their lead hand on the handle (left hand for right-handed golfers) in the address position, evenly distribute their weight on both feet, and keep the club shaft relatively vertical, the lead hand rotates to what is called a weak grip position — which causes the open clubface.

Instead, you need to move your body and golf shaft to where they should be at impact, and then grip it.

So how do you do this?

Position your lower body so that your belt buckle has moved 4-5 inches towards the target, keeping your hips open between 30-40 degrees. Next, make the lead leg vertical (with about 80% of your weight pressure onto the lead foot).

Finally, push the handle (let’s say you’re using a 7-iron) about 5-10 degrees forward, which will help deloft the club.

Now, move your trail hand towards the handle, again letting it hang relaxed from its shoulder. Grasp the handle while sustaining its native position. This is your natural grip, and likely one that will help you stop slicing the golf ball.

Of course, you then have to move both your weight and the handle back to a setup position before swinging, but do it without changing your grip. You’ll now be showing off the logo of your glove, which is precisely why the glove companies put the logo there in the first place — so use it to your advantage to make a better golf swing!

Rukket Sports Pathfinder Impact Mat™

$69.99
Are you looking for a golf training mat to help your golf game? The Rukket Pathfinder Impact Mat™ was designed with input from professional golfers and golf teachers to help players of all abilities improve their game. The strike mat tracks club face alignment and helps ensure clean contact with the ball while the foam pylons can be used to keep your swing on plane. Use all four pylons to practice hitting straighter shots or remove pylons to practice hitting draw or fade shots. It’s the most versatile golf swing practice mat available and works with every club in your bag! Features 2-in-1 golf swing training mat combining the features of an impact mat / strike mat and a swing path trainer to help golfers quickly identify and correct common swing problems like hooks and slices. It’s a golf swing impact / strike mat to help identify and correct club face alignment. Use the “velvet” turf to ensure you’re making clean contact with the ball. It’s also a golf swing training aid to help with swing plane alignment. Use it to fix a slice or a hook, and to practice hitting draw and fade shots. What’s in the Box (1) Rukket Pathfinder Impact Mat™ (4) Foam Pylons (1) Instruction Booklet Product Specs 25in x 13in x 0.8in RUKKET FAIR PLAY GUARANTEE & LIFETIME WARRANTY: At Rukket Sports we know you came to win. We also understand that in order to win you need to train hard, so that’s why we’re proud to offer the Rukket Fair Play Guarantee & Lifetime Warranty for no-risk purchasing plus outstanding USA-based customer service!
View Product

The post Can’t stop slicing? It’s time to use a more natural grip. Here’s how appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15524773 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 18:06:38 +0000 <![CDATA[For more swing power, feel like you're throwing an uppercut punch]]> Every golfer wants more power, but how should it feel? GOLF Top 100 Teacher Mike Dickson says this uppercut sensation is the answer.

The post For more swing power, feel like you’re throwing an uppercut punch appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/driving/generate-more-swing-power-uppercut-punch-play-smart/ Every golfer wants more power, but how should it feel? GOLF Top 100 Teacher Mike Dickson says this uppercut sensation is the answer.

The post For more swing power, feel like you’re throwing an uppercut punch appeared first on Golf.

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Every golfer wants more power, but how should it feel? GOLF Top 100 Teacher Mike Dickson says this uppercut sensation is the answer.

The post For more swing power, feel like you’re throwing an uppercut punch appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

No matter what level of golfer you are, everyone seems to be seeking more power. But how can you achieve it without sacrificing accuracy? Players who figure that out might feel like they have the golden ticket — because it can be difficult.

One of the hardest moves in golf is the start of the downswing. Even Sam Snead said it was the most difficult move in the swing, and many average golfers struggle with it.

Unfortunately, things haven’t changed much since 1975.

GOLF Top 100 Teacher Dana Dahlquist shares an easy tip for players to create more width in their backswing when using a driver
Get more power off the tee by creating width in your backswing. Here’s how
By: Nick Dimengo

The right shoulder of most players rotates out toward the ball at the top of the swing, looking like they’re throwing a hook punch. This will bring the hand path more over the plane and lead to coming over the top.

I remember reading an article in which Tiger Woods said he feels “like I throw an uppercut punch” when talking about his swing. Tom Watson referred to this movement as the “secret” to golf, how the player stays in his posture throughout the backswing and downswing.

The drill below is designed to help duplicate this very move, and it’s something you can do at home to work on this magic swing power move.

This uppercut drill can lead to more swing power

In this drill, we will be using one of your irons. Place the club across your shoulders with the iron head on your trail shoulder and the toe of the club pointing up. Make an ‘X’ across your chest with your arms to hold the club in place. I like to place a ball on the ground as a point of reference when doing this drill.

Next, take your golf posture by hinging from your waist and not squatting into your knees. You should feel balance, which will help your mobility in the golf swing.

Jake Toliver, an instructor from The Los Angeles CC, shared three drills to help players with their posture and rotation in the golf swing
3 quick drills to help your golf swing posture and rotation
By: Nick Dimengo

Now, rotate your upper body back, making sure that the grip on your lead shoulder points downward towards the ball on the ground. Also remember to make sure your shoulders don’t turn level in the backswing.

The next move is the most important.

You need to replace your left shoulder position with your right shoulder. This keeps you in your posture, helping the arms and hands from coming out over the plane. When rotating down and forward, the clubhead will appear as though it would strike the ball that’s on the ground.

Work up into your follow through, with the clubhead over your left foot. Repeat this slowly, trying to feel where your balance is and how your entire body is working.

By working on this swing power drill, you’ll begin to see an improvement on both your balance and ball striking. It’s important to maintain your posture and using that trail shoulder to deliver the power — which should look like an uppercut punch.

SuperSpeed Golf Training System

$379.99
The Speed Training System of Choice for Padraig Harrington, 3x Major Winner and 2024 World Golf Hall of Fame Inductee.Realize the dream of more distance with our original overspeed training system. This system has helped hundreds of thousands of golfers increase their swing speed and create more powerful, consistent golf swings.This system includes our 3 specifically weighted training clubs and access to our full online training program. The research is clear showing 5% swing speed gains in about 6 weeks of regular practice.Choose your appropriate set and then choose your tech to track your speed gains.  BUNDLE YOUR SET WITH TRACKING TECH FOR UP TO $80 OFF! Choose the MEN’S set if you use an X, S, or R flex driver and/or swing above 90MPH.  Not sure which set you need? Take our quiz here!
View Product

The post For more swing power, feel like you’re throwing an uppercut punch appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15524503 Mon, 04 Sep 2023 19:54:44 +0000 <![CDATA[How to play better golf without ever taking a lesson]]> Improving your golf game without ever taking a lesson is a possibility, and new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Liam Mucklow shares how.

The post How to play better golf without ever taking a lesson appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/golf-improvement-without-lessons-liam-mucklow/ Improving your golf game without ever taking a lesson is a possibility, and new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Liam Mucklow shares how.

The post How to play better golf without ever taking a lesson appeared first on Golf.

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Improving your golf game without ever taking a lesson is a possibility, and new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Liam Mucklow shares how.

The post How to play better golf without ever taking a lesson appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

I’ve been fortunate enough to work with a couple dozen Tour players over the years and one of the biggest differences I notice between them and amateur golfers is how they practice.

When I watch amateurs, they’re almost always working on some technical element of their golf swing. When I watch how pros practice, they have a much higher level of external focus and are typically much more goal-oriented in their practice routines.

GOLF Instruction Editor Nick Dimengo shares his lessons from using a 6-iron during a practice round, helping identify key issues in his game
I used only my 6-iron for every shot outside 50 yards. Here’s what I learned
By: Nick Dimengo

Now, I’m not saying that technique isn’t important. But I am saying that practicing smarter will help lower your handicap faster, giving you the golf improvement that you’re hoping for.

While taking golf lessons is certainly helpful, not every player can match that level of commitment to the game. Some may just want to do things on their own without high-level coaching, and others may not want to spend a lot of money on a hobby they’re still trying to figure out.

So regardless of your handicap, dedication to the game of golf or overall skill level, here are three drills that can help every player improve right now without taking a lesson.

How to improve at golf without taking lessons

Follow these simple steps and you’ll start to see major golf improvement — no matter where you currently are as a player.

1. Full swing practice

Practice curving the ball towards your target. Most amateurs focus on starting it at their target, then watch the ball curve away from where they want the ball to land. By starting to play for a slice or a hook, you’ll set yourself up for better results.

Next, work on “gamifying” your practice. Give yourself one point for starting the shot on the correct side of the target line, one point for curving it the correct way, and one point if it doesn’t cross the target line.

After 10 shots, how many points can you total?

2. Wedge work practice

Spend 10 minutes each day doing wedge ladders, where you work on carrying your wedges 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, and 75 yards. Climb up and down the ladder at least once a day.

It’s important to randomize your wedges and use as many as possible, helping to create a variety of trajectories for each loft and distance. This will give you practice at full swing, three-quarter swing, and half-swing shots — which you’ll often come across on the course during a round.

3. Putting practice

Improve your putting speed control on the greens by never hitting the same putt twice in a row. This means varying your practice putts from 10-40 feet, as well as hitting shots both uphill and downhill.

A good drill to challenge yourself is to pick a spot on the green from varying distances, and try to get 10 putts in a row within two feet of that target. If you leave one outside of that two-foot zone, start over from the beginning.

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15524213 Fri, 01 Sep 2023 15:49:02 +0000 <![CDATA[This nifty alignment tip will help you hit more shots closer to the pin]]> Thanks to new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Shawn Callahan, you can become a master of alignment, leading to results landing closer to your target.

The post This nifty alignment tip will help you hit more shots closer to the pin appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/golf-alignment-tip-shawn-callahan-play-smart/ Thanks to new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Shawn Callahan, you can become a master of alignment, leading to results landing closer to your target.

The post This nifty alignment tip will help you hit more shots closer to the pin appeared first on Golf.

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Thanks to new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Shawn Callahan, you can become a master of alignment, leading to results landing closer to your target.

The post This nifty alignment tip will help you hit more shots closer to the pin appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

Having proper golf alignment is essential for executing a good shot, so why do so many amateur players still overlook the importance of it?

Getting aligned isn’t something that generates reactions like a long drive does, but it’s still critical to a good shot.

Great players never have an issue with golf alignment because they constantly work on it. So whether they’re practicing their putting, chipping or long game, you’ll oftentimes see an alignment stick (which are available here) on the ground.

Typically, the training aid will be between the player and the ball, sitting on a parallel line toward the target. In a way, it serves as the railroad tracks of the golf swing, with your body being on the inside rail, and your ball and target on the outside rail.

Common mistakes amateurs make with their golf alignment

Most weekend golfers I work with often align their body toward the target on a shot — which makes the ball and the swing aligned to the right of the target (for a right-handed golfer).

GOLF Top 100 Teacher Kellie Stenzel gives 10 aim and alignment tips to help players hit straighter, more consistent shots
10 simple tips to become an aim-and-alignment pro
By: Kellie Stenzel, Top 100 Teacher

So despite knowing where the actual target is (the safe landing area), the player instinctively pulls the shot back toward their target (not where they should actually be aiming for). When this happens, a pull or a slice tends to occur.

As an instructor, I see this happen all the time. But once a player understands how to get better aligned, they instantly start hitting the ball better — which is why I think many players just need some guidance to reach that level.

How to get into better golf alignment

While you may never bomb a driver 300 yards or shoot under par at a historic golf course, you can duplicate what the pros do when it comes to proper golf alignment.

Pros never encounter issues with alignment because they practice it over and over and utilize tools (like an aforementioned alignment stick) to better themselves. This is something all amateur players can do — and the below method can change your game almost instantaneously.

1. Take your grip and set the club behind the ball

Make sure your clubhead is pointing at the target. When you’ve got the clubhead sufficiently pointing at the target, keep your eyes on that spot, and set your feet into your stance.

2. Set your feet as you look at the target

Always make sure that you’re looking at your target while setting your feet. This will get your body into a more natural square set up to your swing plane.

The key here is to be looking at your target more than the ball as you set your feet. You’ll be surprised at how your alignment is different.

3. Add an alignment stick

I always encourage my students to put down an alignment stick for practicing — just like the pros do. Using this training aid will help keep your alignment in check.

You can even take it a step further and add another stick for ball position, which will help improve your ball-striking as well.

Working on having good golf alignment isn’t the most fun part of the game, but it’s so important for improvement. Once your alignment and ball position are good, you can work on making good contact, which will lead to better results.

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The post This nifty alignment tip will help you hit more shots closer to the pin appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/?post_type=article&p=15524114 Mon, 28 Aug 2023 18:27:26 +0000 <![CDATA[This 'one-second rule' can get you dialed in on pace and distance control]]> Can a player improve their putting distance control in just one second? Yes, and new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Erika Larkin explains how.

The post This ‘one-second rule’ can get you dialed in on pace and distance control appeared first on Golf.

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https://golf.com/instruction/putting/one-second-rule-dialed-in-pace-distance-control/ Can a player improve their putting distance control in just one second? Yes, and new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Erika Larkin explains how.

The post This ‘one-second rule’ can get you dialed in on pace and distance control appeared first on Golf.

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Can a player improve their putting distance control in just one second? Yes, and new GOLF Top 100 Teacher Erika Larkin explains how.

The post This ‘one-second rule’ can get you dialed in on pace and distance control appeared first on Golf.

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Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

Next time you have a long lag putt or are trying to navigate your distance control on the greens, ask yourself a simple question: Where will the ball be rolling one second after impact?

Using this prompt will help you identify a time-spot on the green.

Sure, green speeds and severity of slope will impact your pace predictions, but here’s a general rule of thumb for you to dial in your distance control.

1. Level putts

The ball will be at 40-60% on the way to the hole within one second of impact.

2. Uphill putts

The ball will need to travel farther (and faster), meaning it will be about 60-90% on the way to the hole within one second of impact.

3. Downhill putts

For downhill putts, the ball will need to travel a shorter distance, so it will only be 10-30% in one second following impact.

Most golfers only visualize the line; but don’t forget the pace!

I always suggest playing “the movie” out in your mind in real time. If you visualize it rolling too slowly, the ball will logically never make it to the hole. If you visualize it covering too much ground too quickly, the ball will likely scream past the hole.

So what, then, is the proper distance control?

Forcing your brain to simulate and visualize the starting pace of the putt is key. First dial this aspect in, then take some practice swings to get the feel you need to put the putt close. You should begin to feel what energy you need to use in order to get the ball to its “one second” mark on-time.

I promise you already know how to predict pace — it’s instinctive.

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For example, if I stood three feet away from you and asked you to throw me a ball, you wouldn’t wind up like a pitcher and throw it at max speed at my head. You would probably toss it underhand, or at least soft enough where it decelerates as it arrives to me.

Since your brain understands how to read the length and trajectory or time of an implied action — say, the energy necessary for a downhill putt that’s five-feet away — it will create a plan to complete the task efficiently. So let your subconscious human skills help you predict and visualize the speed; then trust it!

Make sure to use this “one-second rule” to dial in your distance control on the greens. You should see improved play and lower scores!

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