Tiger Tips : How to hit long irons off the grass – Tiger Woods – Brief Article
Tiger Woods
Many amateurs are intimidated by the prospect of hitting a long iron from the fairway. For them, a utility wood might be a better choice. For the less faint of heart, becoming a good long-iron player requires mastering proper technique. Here’s how
Shape the shot for consistency
To hit a long iron from the fairway consistently, first position the ball opposite a point about two inches inside your front heel. Try to shape the shot. Play for either a fade or a draw, then commit to it. Take a slightly open stance for a fade, slightly closed for a draw, and swing the club along your foot alignment.
Take the club away slowly, and keep a wide arc. The average player doesn’t trust the loft of a long iron. Most players restrict their shoulder turn and hurry their downswing, either beating down on the ball or trying to lift it.
Maintaining tempo and posture will help. Try this drill: Tee the ball for a 3-iron. With a full backswing and downswing, try to hit the ball just 100 yards (or swing at a speed 50 percent of normal). You’ll be surprised at how solidly you’ll hit the ball.
Turn wide and finish high
Try to make a big shoulder turn and create a sweeping motion by maintaining good width on your backswing and follow-through. Finish high, with your weight moving in the same direction as the ball.
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