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— Larry, New York City
Great question! The driver shoulder turn is exactly like the irons: down and then around. The only real difference is the setup. We are slightly more upright because of the longer shaft. This makes the turn appear more flat, but it should feel the same as the irons.
— Richard, China
Great question. If you are standing up thru the ball by losing your posture, or spine angle, that is early extension. However, if you are pushing off the ground with your legs, while clearing your hips, and at the same time maintaining your spine angle, this is the powerful hit thru motion you are striving to create. This has the right blend of speed, for power and stability which produces consistency.
— Matt, Antelope Valley
I usually use an iPhone app — like GolfShot — to track my statistics. It tracks all of the major statistical categories: putting, scrambling, bunkers, greens, and fairways. Better yet, its companion app — GolfPlan — analyzes the data to identify strengths and weaknesses relative to your handicap. A simple, effective way to monitor your progress.
— Matt, Antelope Valley
A great way to improve your short game — and your scoring — is a drill I call the scoring zone. Drop one ball inside 100 yards, then play it until you hole out. The trick is altering each hole. Different distances. Different lies. 45 yards on an upslope. 78 yards from the rough. 95 yards on a downslope. Every hole is a par three, and your goal is breaking par.
Focusing on this area of the scoring zone improves your putting, chipping, and partial wedge swing. This is where great scores are made — or lost.
— Carter, Ontario
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— Richard, Avon
Great question. It’s a common problem plaguing many golfers.
The role of the shoulders in the downswing is almost non-existent. The major contributors are (in this order): hips, arms, and wrists. If they do anything, it comes after the hips initiate the downswing. The right shoulder tilts down toward the ball about 5 inches. This allows the arms to drop in close. That’s all they do! Just knowing that should help, and give you a better picture of how little the shoulders contribute.
— Ken, United Kingdom
Ken, you’re in luck! I just published the latest episode of Z-School — my online curriculum to improve specific aspects of your game. This installment addresses iron compression.
— Chris, Estero
Tommy Armour 845s? What a great set… 20 years ago! All kidding aside, they were one of the best irons. With today’s technology, however, it’s time for an upgrade.
The Callaway X2 Hot Pro irons are a great set — especially for the price — plus they come with a great stock shaft in the True Temper Project X95. Slightly lighter weight than the Original Project X. If you compare the standard loft and shaft length from your 845s to the new X2 irons, you will probably gain one club in distance right there. Plus more forgiveness with the X2’s without losing that classic iron look.
I would stay with the stiff shaft — your swing speed numbers can handle it no problem. You might gain a little distance with a regular shaft, but you would lose consistency. Plus, you are already accustomed to the stiff flex.
I would treat yourself to an upgrade. I see no downside — only more distance with the same effort. And I promise they will be easier to hit in the long irons.
— Donna
I like your mantra for hitting down on the ball: “low and left.” I usually tell my students “down and left.” Either one works great. However, remember at the end of the day you want educated hands and wrists, that naturally do all of this, with no conscious though. However, this is exactly how you train them.
— Donna
Excellent! Very perceptive. I can tell you are a student of the game.
The heel of the right hand should definitely lead the trigger finger/index finger into the impact area. Be sure to remain soft in the hands and arms as this is happening — so centrifugal force and angular momentum will naturally unhinge the right wrist and club.
Give the gift of better golf this year...
