July 22, 2011

School of Golf: Uneven Lies

As seen on the Golf Channel's "School of Golf"

LEARN EVERY LIE!

"Pros try to avoid uneven lies whenever possible."
  • Uphill lies: Set your spine perpendicular and shoulders should be parallel to the angle of the slope. The ball flies higher, tends to hook; doesn't go as far and requires more club
  • Downhill lies: Ball should be back in stance. Requires as much loft as possible. The ball flies lower, tends to be pushed and requires shorter backswing.
  • Ball above your feet: Stand up more erect; more weight on the balls of your feet. Choke down on the club and play for a ball with draw spin.
  • Ball below your feet: Bend over; more weight towards the ball, knees bent, grip full length. Use more of an upright swing.

AROUND THE GREENS
From the bank of a bunker:
  • Uphill lie: 
    Weight favoring back foot, swing up the slope. Try using a 9-iron, it will perform like a Sand wedge.
  • Downhill lie: Open the clubface substantially, favor weight on front foot. Swing across your body, down the slope.