Keeping It Low

There are three keys to hitting a low, boring, penetrating (commonly known as the punch shot) through the wind or under tree limbs.

1. At address, aim the leading edge of the clubface perpendicular to your target line.  Align your feet, knees, hips and shoulders parallel to the target line; a square set-up.

Set the hands and butt end of the club slightly further forward towards your front foot, which will de-loft the clubface. (A six iron will now have the loft of a 5 iron).

Be careful not to alter the alignment of the clubface – keep the bottom edge perpendicular to the target line.  Place 60% of your weight on your front foot.

This address position of hands and weight forward will produce a slightly downward blow with less loft than normal on the club.

2. The swing will be on the correct inside-to-inside swing path but the back swing must be shorter than normal; only ¾ swing.  This will reduce some of the wrist action and allow the swing to be wider, both back and through the ball.

3. It is important to allow the hips to clear to the left, unwinding through impact, and finish facing the target.  This enables the club head to provide a wide hit through the ball, without the clubface snapping closed.

To review: remember to follow the three steps.  First, address the ball with hands forward and weight on front foot.  Second, keep your back swing short; only a ¾ swing.  And finally, turn the hips through so you face the target on your follow-through.  Follow these steps and you will hit that low, penetrating shot through the wind or under tree limbs and out of trouble.