Question -- ball forward

[RC]

OK, another question (you see I have been following the posts exposing myths and preconceptions and I'm just throwing in some questions, like the one about wind changes...)

This time the question is, "Can your swing hold up and hit normal looking shots when you hit, say, a 5 iron up well forward in your stance." Put the ball off your left toe and try to hit a normal looking shot. If you can, you are obviously shifting weight, your normal divots are likely well in front of the ball, and you have a good forward move through the ball. I actually think this is a good drill warming up. About the only changes I notice are a little less draw and the ball spins a little less. I do know that players that hang back a little or are too handsy will tend to hit fat or struggle hitting the ball on line. It is a good drill to help insure you are shifting weight, and keeping the swing inside. Your right arm will really need to stay inside and down the line through impact. With all the SnT discussions here, some of you might find this useful in getting those hips to the left quickly. I also know it helps to start and keep more weight on the left foot.

I notice when I practice this and hit a really solid shot my finish position is very good (for me anyway.) I even practice doing it with wedges to help get a better divot on normal shots. If I can get my hands ahead and hit down on a ball aligned near the front of the left foot with a sand wedge, I know I am making a good move.

It's just a question so go try it and tell us what you find out.

[iacas]

I can see that being a good drill, but I prefer a different one myself. It might depend on what your personal swing bugaboos are, as the drill I mentioned (which I won't describe) is for a different type of thing.