parbreaker

I have very, very, rarely ever used a driver off the deck. Most of those shots were quite a few years ago with much smaller clubheads too. When I was in high school me and a buddy used to play a round of golf where the winner of the hole would pick a golf club. We both had to play the entire hole with that club. It was a fun way to learn new shots. He was fond of picking driver for some reason, so I got some practice in. I discovered that as long as the lie is good (hardpan, straw, tramped down grass, etc.) you can use a driver to hit a super low, fast rolling punch shot. I ended up using the shot in tournaments every now and then. A good example is being about 70 yds out in pine straw, with those low lying pine trees in your way. I remember hitting a shot about that distance up onto an elevated green with a driver. It never got above 4 feet off the ground and sailed right under all the branches then rolled up the hill and onto the green. Without that shot I would have had to punch out backwards into the fairway. As far as a full swing shot in the fairway, it would have to be a very unique set of circumstances like Erik described above.

I can agree with what everyone is saying. However for me, I do change my course management depending on what I am playing. If I am playing by myself and just practicing, or playing a casual round with a buddy, I will sometimes play shots that I know are too risky just for the opportunity to see what happens. Hitting risky shots is exciting, and more fun that fairway, green, fairway, green, etc. It gives me a good idea of just where my limits are and gives me a chance to hit some of those crazy "save the hole" shots. I usually get excited when I get a chance to hit some crazy low punch hook, a 190 yard high slice back to the green, or a super high flop shot over trees and onto a fast green. It's fun to be inventive and try things. However, if I have money on the line, am in a serious round, or a tournament I won't even think of taking those chances. I play to my strengths, don't hit nearly as many drivers, don't go for nearly as many pins, etc. For me at least, it can be fun to let loose and try to push my boundaries. It does help me out when I am in a serious round and really get stuck somewhere because I have the experience with those shots. It's all about balance reallly. There are certain risks that are just silly. For example, #2 on my home course is a short par 4 (354 yds). It is tightly lined with trees on both sides. I always hit a 3 iron off of the tee so I can then hit a full PW into the green. It's not negotiable. Even when testing my limits, it doesn't make sense. So I hit a driver and have 50-60 yards left... great now I'm in the stupid range of half swings with wedges. Another example. #10 on my home course is a short par 4 (343 yds) with a dogleg right and a creek running through the dogleg. Due to elevations it plays shorter than that. The creek is 100yds from the green. There are huge trees at the dogleg. I "can" hit a driver over those trees and to the fairway on the other side. However it is super tight (the fairway narrows and is sloped to the rough there giving you an uneven lie even in the fairway). Do I go over the creek? Never. I hit a 4 iron and stay short of the creek every time, hit a PW or SW into the green. Have I taken a driver over the creek? Yes, in practice a handful of times. After I saw what happened, experienced it, I quit doing it. I haven't done it in probably 3-4 years, but when I get grouped up with people I see people trying to clear that creek all the time... just to put it in the water or put themselves in an even worse position. As an example of a risk that I think is fine to take in casual play, I will usually go after every single pin when I am really just practicing. Cut it into this hole, draw it into that one... etc. If I miss the green and short side myself, it gives me an opportunity to try the saving shot and see how it goes. It can help me gauge what pins I can and can't go for in serious or tournament play. Just my thoughts...

I would agree with the pro. You should use the same grip with every club. You would be amazed at what even a slight grip change can do. Adjustments in your grip can affect club path, face position, timing, etc. It's best to get a proper, consistent grip for all clubs and work on your issues from there, in my opinion.

I think with regard to ability, Tom Watson is correct. The skill level difference between many top amateurs and professionals isn't that large. In my opinion, the difference comes down to one thing. Professionals play golf as a job. Amateurs don't. Skill level is largely irrelevant now when considering the definition. A professional has to play in a minimum of tournaments, has to secure sponsors, make apperarances, give clinics, and constantly work to keep their game up to snuff. As amazing as it is, it is still a job. An amateur can be just as good, but it's not their job. To summarize, I think the definition of amateur is what has changed more than anything.

I think D Bogey touched on part of the core issue. "rebuild or modification" When an instructor gets a new student, they won't initially know how dedicated the person is. I would venture to say most people that come in for a lesson want something to fix something that has happened recently. They aren't going to spend the time to correct a myriad of issues. If a person like that comes in and the pro shows them a different grip, setup, alignment, etc. it could have a negative effect on their swing initially until they get comfortable with the changes. What will a casual golfer looking for a quick fix do? He will discredit the pro and go back to what he did originally. In contrast, if the pro can find a couple of things to tweak in their swing to help out a little bit, it will have an initially positive reaction, help the player build confidence in the pro, and help the relationship. If the player keeps coming back and shows the determination to really change their swing, then the pro can start getting into fundamental changes in grip, ball position, alignment, stance, posture, etc. That said, there are many styles, and not everyone's style will mesh together. As others have said, it is important to find an instructor that you feel comfortable with and understand well.

Just curious, so I figured I would ask. Golf can be a very personal game, and many of us have developed little habits, superstitions, and beliefs. Not all of these are logical, and some may even go against the general concensus as to what is best for our game. I was just curious what some other peoples are. Personally, one of mine is that for the life of me I don't like hybrid irons. I started playing before hybrids existed, and tend to be more of a traditionalist. I fell in love with my 5 wood when learning to play, and now always carry that or a 1 iron. Yes, it's stubborn. Yes, I can see the benefit of hybrids. It's just how I feel. Any others?

Personally, I always will go to an outdoor range over indoor mats. The turf is ideal. It creates the same conditions on the course and gives you the same markers. Most pros at courses and outdoor ranges will make use of video cameras as well, so you don't need to be at a specific place for that. Until your swing gets to a certain point, videos shouldn't be required for diagnosis and help. I do think they have an effect though when someone can see their own swing.

For me, the longer I have played the more important my preshot routine has become. When I was in high school I didn't give it a second thought. I probably approached the ball a different way every time. Now, I do it the exact same way every time, and if anything interrupts that I have no problem stopping and starting over. It took me years to get to that point, but I think it has really helped my consistency. 1. Check yardage, pin position, wind, course contour, etc. I do this while putting on my glove and setting my bag down. (I take my glove off between shots typically) 2. Stand directly behind the ball about 4 yards and line up my shot. I envision the ball flight and what I want the ball to do. 3. Grip the club in my right hand, and pick a small spot on the ground about 4-10 inches in front of my ball as an aiming point. 4. Walk up to the left side of the ball while staring at the aiming point. (I don't want to lose it and have to start over.) 5. As I approach the ball I place the clubhead behind the ball, take my full grip with both hands, and line up the clubface directly with my mark. 6. Place my feet the appropriate distance from the ball with them together, and make sure they are lined up square to the clubface and my aiming point. 7. Step my left foot out to shoulder width (or slightly narrower or wider depending on the shot and desired ball placement) 8. Step my right foot out to the appropriate width. 9. Look up at the target twice (envisioning the shot), while wagging the club back twice. I also shift my weight on my feet to stay loose and feel my weight distribution (without moving my feet so I don't disrupt my alignment) 10. Set the club down behind the ball, breathe out, and start the swing. That may all seem like a lot, but it has developed over years and is second nature. I don't even realize I am doing most of it when I am playing and it serves to help calm me down when I get anxious. Overall the routine takes about 8-9 seconds from the point I get behind the ball to the swing.

For me, it really depends on the shot. I would say I use my sand wedge (usually my 54 degree 8 bounce) for most shots. If I need a lot of height, alot of stoppage, or the sand is wet and hard, I will not hesitate to use my lob wedge. I use a lob wedge with low bounce for some versatility. I have been known to swap out wedges though based on feel and the course I'm playing though. I enjoy hitting my lob wedge more, and would hit it more if I could but for most bunker shots the sand wedge is more reliable.

Personally, I have never intentionally broken a club. When I was in high school i had a bad temper. I would cuss, get depressed, and occasionally slam a clubhead into the ground. I would be lying if I said the thought of throwing a club never crossed my mind, but I was brought up playing golf with a father who was very strict about etiquitte on the golf course. It somehow always managed to restrain me. I certainly witnessed my share of broken clubs from opponents and team mates though. Today, the worst I due is cuss under my breath, or let the club go after my swing is done (it just drops to the ground behind me). I have become much more reserved and level headed, though the drive to perfection is still there underneath. I think that changes with most people with age. Teenagers are apt to lose their tempers. If an older person has a habit of breaking clubs, it is probably a sign of some other issues. In addition to that, I worked a lot of hours to afford my clubs. I couldn't imagine blowing all that hard work with one swift motion....

Alignment is something that takes constant monitoring. When I am on the range I use a couple of guide sticks (the bright yellow plastic sticks). I usually just use one along my target path between my ball and feet. It helps ensure that I am lined up correctly and it transfers to the course when I don't have the sticks. The key is to go through your whole setup and hit shots with the guide on the ground, that way you get used to how it feels. One major key to keeping consistent alignment though, is a good preshot routine. It is very common for players to shift their feet and adjust as they are looking at the target while looking over the ball. When you are in that position your perceptions are altered and you invariably end up shifting yourself off line. A solid preshot routine will limit this, though the guide sticks (or another club works just as well on the range). This is personal preference, but here's what I do regarding alignment in my preshot routine: From directly behind the ball pick a spot on the ground 5-10 inches ahead of the ball that is on my target path. Walk up to the ball and place the clubhead behind the ball, aimed directly at the spot in front of the ball. (The reason for this is because it is easier for your mind to line up) With my grip taken, I stand with my feet together and the ball in the center and make sure that I am lined us square to the clubface (and thus the target line). Step out with my left foot, then my right. Only once, making sure that they are still square. I dont' adjust or shift my feet around. I look back at the target and visualize my shot. Alignment is one of those things that is simple, but easy to lose. PS: I hope the description of the preshot routine makes sense. I am finding it hard to explain in text and feel like I am getting the effect through.

It should be the same swing for every club. There are a few small changes in setup that will inherently alter your swing a bit, but all of the guidelines and mechanics are the same. How are your iron shots when you have been hitting a driver for a while? Are your iron shots bad? i.e. does what you are describing go both ways? What specifically is bad about your shots when they are bad?

Something I've discovered about clubs, is that certain ones are effected by technology less so than others. Drivers tend to have a large turnover and can have an effect on imparted spin and distance. Fairway woods aren't far behind that. Irons, at least in my opinion, haven't been effected very much by technology in the last 5-6 years. There have been a few changes but not enough to have a significant impact on your swing. If your clubs are less than 7-8 years old then the only effect a new set will probably have on your swing is mental. Obviously, having them custom fit for you will help, new clubs or old. I consider irons and putters clubs that I don't look to replace unless they become damaged, personally.

I might favor this due to a significant musical background, but I often keep a metronome in my bag. I don't use it when playing, but when I start to feel my tempo come out of sync, I can always pull it out, put the volume on max, and set the rate where I need it to be. They are cheap and can be very effective.

I would expect that to be a common reaction. As the day goes on you will tire both physically and emotionally. I have always respected the early champions of golf when the final day always consisted of 36 holes, especially in the summer heat. The key to maintaining your performance through such a long time period is physical conditioning, staying well hydrated and fueled, and a tough mentality. If you do find yourself losing focus and performance I would advise shortening your days until you can build back up to a 36 hole day. This is primarily because you are in danger of ingraining bad habits while you are tired and exhausted, plus it doesn't help confidence very much.

There are more ways to cheat at this game than you can count, and that's the way it's always been. I have always thought that the way someone plays golf can tell you more about the person than just about anything else. It can be a reflection on how they see themselves and what their values are. People are diverse and there always will be cheating. It is sad and it makes me sick to think of cheating in this game, but it's there. In high school I remember seeing it a lot. A few players ended up caught and DQ'd or removed from their respective teams, but it didn't stop others. There probably are more cheaters at the game than there used to be, which is a reflection on society as a whole in my opinion.

I apologize. I am at work and glanced through the thread before commenting. I personally don't care for the stack and tilt method and didn't realize until after I posted and read back through some of the other comments that was what the OP was working on. If that is the method you are adhering to it is definitely working very well and disregard my advice.

Incredible progress, nice job. If I may be so bold, I would like to recommend something to focus your attention on next. From the head on point of view, I noticed a couple of things. At address your weight is mostly on your front foot instead of balanced. Throughout your swing it looks as though you never really get loaded up on your right side. This can promote an OTT swing (which means you have to work harder right now to keep it on plane) and can lead to you leaning back in your follow through. My thought is that if you can get yourself really loaded up on your right side it will allow you to really release on your downswing, giving your a more balanced follow through, a better position at impact, and quite a bit more distance as well.

I agree that you are swinging too hard, and you are coming OTT (over the top). Your club path on the back swing is severely inside, which then leads to you coming down very steep and outside-in. That is the primary cause of the slice. it isn't an uncommon problem (probably the most common major flaw actually). It can be difficult to correct, however. This is because many things can lead to that particular swing path. Without a head on shot it's hard to diagnose all issues, but I would start by evaluating your grip, stance, setup, etc. That will go a good way, and then work on your takeaway next. If you can get your body and arms working together and starting the club on a proper path first, that should go a long way to alleviating your slice. If you are truly invested in correcting this issue, I can tell you it will be worth it but it will take some work. Making changes that drastic to your swing is not easy and will not happen overnight. As a side note, it looks as though you would benefit from some fitted clubs as well. The iron especially looks too short for you.

Yes, it is definitely possible. I have that problem when I get tired or am having a rough day. When I am swinging correctly I actually feel as though my arms and hands are moving through the ball before my hips ever start to move on the downswing. In reality, that is far from the truth but that is the feeling that I need because my hips will naturally outpace my arms so fast. Tiger has that same problem at times as well (or at least has in some incarnations of his swing).

I think many people become at least slightly intrigued about the "happy gilmore" swing at some point or another. The concept behind it is that the extra speed you have from running to the ball will be transferred to the ball and show up with added distance. I can't remember where I saw it (probably on the golf channel), but they did a test with this swing. They had Padraig Harrington do two driver swings on high speed film. One normal and one running up to the ball. He was able to make solid contact and hit the fairway with both shots. The data showed about a +4mph difference in his swing speed due to running, which equated to about 5-10 extra yards. The general concensus was that that small of a distance gain was not worth the lack of accuracy of a traditional swing. Now that I've addressed the "theory" of the swing, I'll address the video. It appears to me as though your swing is choppy and abbreviated. This is probably showing up as extra assurance of making contact. The farther you take the club from the ball, the harder it will be to make contact. As has been said, you really lack any shoulder turn and torque to speak of which means you are sacrificing huge amounts of power. Add that to the natural unreliability of the swing, and it doesn't bode well. Being able to hit the ball reliably with that swing is an indication of good athletics and hand-eye coordination. You should have some nice potential, but I would highly recommend using a more traditional setup and swing.

The previous advice is good, but I'd like to add my 2 cents. When someone comes to me and says they hit "X" club poorly, but many others are fine, my first thought is that it is a mental issue. You may have hit it poorly in the beginning and now there is some anxiety with the club.... You may be subconsciously attempting to hit the ball harder because it is a longer club.... You may be subconsciously trying to help the ball into the air due to the loft.... All of those are mental issues. The five iron is the first club that really steps into the "long iron" category and is going to show any issues very readily. One thing I would ask you is how do you hit your 4 and 3 irons? If those are not used at all or hit just as poorly then here is what I would recommend: Start with a pitching wedge and hit some half swing shots. Just get loose and focus on making solid contact. Slowly work your way up to full wedge shots. After you feel loose and comfortable, bring out your 5 iron. Start by hitting half swings. Use the same general feel you had with the wedge. Don't focus on distance, just focus on solid contact. As you get more comfortable, lengthen the swing. If you ever revert back to hitting it very poorly, come back to the half swing, or even back to the pitching wedge if necessary. What this will do is build your confidence and get you used to hitting that club the same way as the shorter ones. It is important that you don't even worry about distance when doing this drill. I commonly pick a flag that is very close to me for a target on purpose (i.e. 80 yds away, but hitting 7 irons). I can still evaluate the accuracy without the extra mental issues of distance. Hope that helps.

There are two aspects here to address. The first is what has been mentioned already, which is that if it allows you to hit the ball well then its great. There are indeed a number of professionals that have slight out to in swings. The second, and most important part, is are you "actually" going out to in? Remember that what you feel or think you are doing is rarely what is actually happening. This is the same reason most amateurs overdo advice. (Like Harvey Penick always said, they took the whole bottle instead of 1 pill.) This is like someone telling you to open your stance up because you are aiming right, then a week later they say you are aiming everything 20 yards left. Its common and this is why tour pros constantly have video cameras, caddies, and pros watching them swing... so they can get feedback on what they are actually doing. I would venture to guess that you were bringing the club too much inside and getting stuck, so now your new thought is actually bringing the club closer to on plane. If you are hitting a push/draw then you "can't" be coming outside to in really. It's just how it feels to you. I would stick with that feeling, because it is helping you and works, but keep an eye on it, as in a couple of weeks or so you might start overdoing it as your body gets used to the movement.

Right now with a full time job, I usually do this: Monday Work 7AM-5PM Play 9 holes, playing 3 balls at once and practicing short shots, bunker, putts, etc. Tuesday-Friday Work 7AM-5PM Driving Range for 2 hours (90% wedges 100yds and in, the rest mid irons and a handful of drivers) Putt til dark Saturday-Sunday 9AM-12PM Driving Range, 90% wedges and pitch shots 12PM-4PM Practice green, 60% putting 40% chip shots 4PM-Dark Play golf until I can't see I have completely rededicated myself to improving right now though, so I obviously have sacrificed other things to be able to do this. Here's what most people I see on the practice range do: 2 times a week - hit balls for about 20 minutes, 90% drivers (usually that's the first thing they hit) Play 18 holes once a week That's about it, no time on the putting green except maybe a handful of putts before playing. I understand that's probably all the time they have alloted for golf in their lives, but it does show the significant difference in practice time people can have for the game.