We all like to hit high pitches that float like a butterfly and stop on a dime, but you’re better off hitting lower shots where you can control trajectory and get the ball to bite hard once it lands. It’s the more reliable shot.
The key to hitting the low pitch is to catch the ball super-clean and, well, control the low point of your swing arc.
Here’s how to do it.
With any wedge, set up like you would for any pitch, then take your trail hand off the club and place it behind your back as you see me doing here. Now, simply rehearse your swing, back and forth, using only your lead arm, brushing the grass in the same spot every time. Important: With each swing, finish with your lead arm straight and in line with the clubshaft. Also, check that your lead wrist is flat, not unduly bowed or flexed.
If you nail these positions, the ball will come off the clubface with plenty of spin and a lower trajectory — easy to control for a nice up and down. Experiment with different wedge lofts to get your shot distances down for an easy putt to save par.
Mike Malizia is a GOLF Top 100 Teacher and is the director of instruction at The Club at Admirals Cove in Jupiter, Fla.
