Trying to hit a golf ball when you are standing too far away is
like trying to hit a baseball without even being in the batters
box. The proper distance from the ball is a key element, and being
consistent with this distance is really important.
Trying to hit a golf ball when you are standing too far away is like trying to hit a baseball without even being in the batters box. The proper distance from the ball is a key element, and being consistent with this distance is really important.
Make sure that you are the same distance away from the ball with all clubs. I don’t care whether you have a 48-inch driver in your hand or a 37-inch sand wedge, your hands should be the same distance away from your body with both clubs.
The general rule of thumb is that when you stand up to the shot, the heel of your left hand should be about six to eight inches from the inside of your left hand. If you do this with every club, all you have to do is swing your hands through the hitting area the same way, and no matter what length club you have in your hand, you will strike the ball.
If you start changing the distance away from the body with different clubs, you are really asking for trouble. Most people in general stand too far away. Get in close to your work and you will have greater success. After all, the only time you want to stand a long way away from your golf ball is after you hit it.
Don DeLorenzo is a PGA-certified instructor at Gilroy Golf Course. To schedule a lesson with Don, call Gilroy GC at (408) 848-0490.
