Add Spin to Your Short Game
When the pros put spin on a ball, it zips back like someone placed a ProV1 on a treadmill. The average golfer, however, has to hope for a Michael-Jordan-in-Space-Jam miracle, with an assist from Bugs Bunny, to get the ball to spin like that. Fortunately, by studying the proper steps for putting spin on a golf ball, you can learn to zip the ball back to the pin. It just takes some practice. Here’s what to focus on:
- Contact first: One of the most common mistakes golfers make when trying to spin a golf ball is believing there’s a need to make a huge divot. Instead, it’s most important to focus on making solid contact by attacking down at the ball; the divot should happen only after striking the ball.
- Body and ball position: In order to encourage a steep swing that will allow you to attack down at the ball, lean toward the target with your weight on your front leg and the ball in the back of your stance.
- Position at impact: To properly spin a ball, your top wrist and back knee should be in front of the ball and angled to the target upon impact.
- High loft: You should never try to put spin on a ball with a club lower than a 7 iron. In order for the ball to achieve optimal spin, it needs to be hit high up in the air. Practice using your wedges first before trying your 7, 8 and 9 irons.
- Conditions: Just like every shot made in golf, the conditions will come into play. When trying to spin a ball, it’s best if you’re hitting into the wind or there is no wind at all. This helps the ball travel higher and creates maximum backspin. The pros never try to spin the ball when hitting with the wind at their back.
- Type of ball: You can practice with different types of golf balls, but you’ll find the easiest balls to spin are soft ones with a higher compression rate.
Practice makes perfect, as always. When you’re out on the chipping green or at the range, remember that TGW.com has everything you need to outfit your bag with the best gear, from the latest clubs to the best golf balls for your style of play.
