How To Hit Wedges Like A Pro
When it comes to playing better golf and shooting lower scores, one crucial skill every golfer should have in their arsenal is hitting wedges accurately. Knowing how to hit wedges can make or break your round. Today we will explore the key techniques and strategies to help you improve your wedge game. So, whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced golfer aiming to sharpen your skills, this blog will help you learn how to hit wedges like a pro in no time.
Choose The Right Wedge
Before you even try hitting a wedge, it’s essential to ensure you have the right wedges in your bag. Typically, a golfer carries at least three wedges: a pitching wedge (PW), a gap wedge (GW), and a sand wedge (SW). Some may also include a lob wedge (LW) for added versatility.
Proper Grip and Stance
Your grip and stance are fundamental to learning how to hit wedges. Follow these steps:
- Grip: Hold the club with a slightly firm grip, but not too tight. The “V” formed by your thumb and index finger on both hands should point towards your right shoulder (for right-handed golfers). This helps maintain control and feel during the swing.
- Stance: For wedge shots, place your feet shoulder-width apart and favor your front foot slightly. This stance promotes a downward strike on the ball, which is crucial for wedge shots.
Ball Position
Ball placement in your stance varies depending on the type of wedge and the shot you want to execute:
- For pitching wedge shots, position the ball in the center of your stance.
- For gap wedge and sand wedge shots, move the ball slightly forward, towards your left foot.
- For lob wedge shots, position the ball even further forward, closer to your left instep.
Swing Technique
A controlled and consistent swing is essential for hitting wedges. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Take a three-quarter swing: Avoid over-swinging. A shorter, controlled backswing will provide better control and accuracy.
- Maintain a shallow angle of attack: When hitting a wedge, you want to hit down on the ball, but not too steeply. This helps create crisp contact and generates spin.
- Accelerate through impact: When hitting a wedge, gradually accelerate the club head through the ball, maintaining a smooth tempo.
Distance Control
A controlled and consistent swing is essential for hitting wedges. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Take a three-quarter swing: Avoid over-swinging. A shorter, controlled backswing will provide better control and accuracy.
- Maintain a shallow angle of attack: When hitting a wedge, you want to hit down on the ball, but not too steeply. This helps create crisp contact and generates spin.
- Accelerate through impact: When hitting a wedge, gradually accelerate the club head through the ball, maintaining a smooth tempo.
Hitting wedges properly is an essential skill for any golfer looking to lower their scores and enhance their overall game. By choosing the right wedges, mastering your grip and stance, understanding ball position, perfecting your swing technique, controlling your distances, and dedicating time to practice, (or booking a lesson with our master instructors) you can significantly improve your wedge play. Remember, consistency and confidence are key. So, go out there, practice, and soon you’ll be teaching other players how to hit wedges like a pro.
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