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Drop 5 Strokes in 10 Weeks


Published: November 01, 2006

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Week 5: 50-yard Shots
The next three weeks focus on three different distances: 50, 75, and 100 yards. These distances represent some of the most important shots in golf. If you can get comfortable and consistent with these shots, you'll rarely have to chip! Spend these weeks focusing on accuracy and distance control. Get that ball close! The proper execution of these shots is a large part of what separates the best players from everyone else.

By the end of this week, you should have a good idea of your 50-yard club played uphill, downhill, upwind, and downwind. This shot should be a piece of cake.

Use This Tip
Commit to a full swing. The normal lob wedge distance is in the 75-yard range, so open the face a few degrees. Rotate your stance to the left until the leading edge of the clubface points at your target. The preferred ball position is just slightly back of center.

Since the shot needs loft, weaken your grip by rotating your hands to the left. A weaker grip will keep you from aggressively rotating the face and potentially closing it down at impact, a move that subtract lofts and produces a lower trajectory.