Learning to Control Distance with your Wedges

Improving your golf score starts with the short game and putting. Here's a tip to improve your wedge game and help you lower your scores.

Face On

Down The Line

7 O'Clock

5 O'Clock

8 O'Clock

4 O'Clock

9 O'Clock

3 O'Clock

The photos show the correct set-up for all pitch shots from the face on (FO) and down the line (DL) views. Notice how the stance is a lot narrower than for a conventional full swing, as too wide a stance would inhibit the proper body rotation. Note how the DL photo has a stance that is slightly open, aiming to the left, as this aids in helping the body rotate on the follow through. The clubs on the ground represent proper alignment, clubhead and ball aim directly to the target, as the body alignment aims slightly left but near parallel to the target line.

Once you have a solid base to build a swing from, the next step is to understand there is a system to control the distance the ball travels. I like to call this the “clock system”.

The top picture shows the left arm in the 7 o'clock position and bottom picture shows the 5 o'clock position. Notice how the weight has remained slightly favoring the left side and the arms and shoulders have stayed the same as the starting position!

The next swing length is the 8-4 o'clock. The top picture shows the left arm in the 8 o'clock spot and the wrists have begun to hinge, with the weight still favoring the left side. The follow through finish is similar to the 5 o'clock position, but just a little longer.

The top photo shows the correct 9 o'clock position where the left arm is parallel to the ground with the club shaft at a right angle. The weight has remained centered. The bottom picture shows the correct 3 o'clock finish, mirror image of the backward motion. Notice how the finish is tall and balanced, eyes just now starting to follow the ball.

Now to understand how far the ball travels for each swing length and club selection! Below is my own club and swing reference. All grip positions being in the middle, and all distances are base on carry.

Take it from a PGA Pro, working on you wedge game distance control will help you to improve your game and lower your score. Pass this tip along to your co-workers and be sure to check us out for future “Simon Says” Golf Tips.

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"Simon Says" Golf Tips > Wedge Distance

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