Why ball position is so important in golf
Golf Monthly top 25 coach Barney Puttick explains the basics of ball position
Golf Monthly top 25 coach Barney Puttick explains the ball position basics to help you create the perfect angle of attack for better strikes and flights!
Why ball position is so important in golf
The simple rule about ball position is this: the longer the club, the further forward in your stance the ball should be at address. However, for consistently good strikes, your ball position needs to be correct in relation to where your upper body is set. This is the key - don't think about ball position on its own. Think about it in conjunction with your sternum and you'll be in a much better position to get it right.
If you have been asking yourself why do I pull I shots, this piece explains how it relates to ball position- it explains perfectly why your ball position could be to blame.
Driver: I find the following method of checking extremely helpful. With a driver, set the ball just inside your left heel, so that it's level with the inside of your left arm. With the middle of your chest behind the ball, you should be able to strike the ball on the ideal ‘upward' angle. If you are looking for ways to fix your slice, use this as your first checkpoint.
Irons: The shaft of a mid-iron is shorter, so the ball position needs to come back - it should sit in line with the logo on your shirt or jumper.
Wedges: Finally, with your wedges, set the ball in line with your shirt buttons. This will ensure you find a crisp contact every time.
Get the Golf Monthly Newsletter
Subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest tour news, equipment news, reviews, head-to-heads and buyer’s guides from our team of experienced experts.
Watch more golf swing tips videos
The basic principle is that the longer the shaft of the club, the further forward it needs to be in your stance. Ball position and angle of attack are directly related and that explains why ball position is so important in golf, get the position of the ball right and you'll deliver the club as it was intended through impact. Not only will this help the quality of your striking, it will also help your power and accuracy as well. All in all, this is well worth paying attention to in practice
Lee was a freelance writer for Golf Monthly from 2013 to 2015.
-
LIV Golf's Henrik Stenson Wins Car For A Fan At Port Adelaide Aussie Rules Match
The Majesticks GC co-captain completed a golfing challenge during Port Adelaide's home game against St Kilda
By Jonny Leighfield Published
-
Making The Cut's Not Enough - LET Pro Details How Finishing Outside Of The Top-25 Can Actually See Players LOSE Money
Hannah Gregg has described how even making the cut can see her lose money for a tournament week due to the worrying lack of prize funds on the LET
By Paul Higham Published