When it’s Breezy

Well, hopefully winter is finally over and we can finally get out on the course and enjoy some springtime sunshine. One of the most common weather tendencies in the spring is wind. We’ve all been on the course when the wind is howling, blowing what would normally be good shots way off line. However, there are some ways that you can reduce the effect of the wind.

Most of us have heard the old saying “when it’s breezy, swing easy”. This is one of the best thoughts to have in the wind. When you swing hard, you generate more spin on your shots, which gives the ball a higher trajectory, making it easier for the wind to blow it off line. By taking an extra club or two and shortening your swing, you will lower the trajectory and greatly reduce the amount of spin generated leading to longer straighter shots in the wind.

How to do it:

Things to remember while hitting the “knockdown”:

• Ball position in the center of your stance (never behind).
   
• Take an extra club or two.
   
• Shorten your backswing and through-swing to shoulder height finishing with your right arm pointing at the target (for right handed golfers)
   
• Most importantly, maintain balance on the balls of your feet. When hitting this shot, most people have a tendency to shift their weight onto their toes which will cause you to hit a shank virtually every time.

Remember: Don’t swing slower, swing shorter!

Happy Practicing!!

Brett Prosser
CPGA Associate Professional