Introduction // Striking down on the ball

Hello. I used to be an 8 (played a lot when young, good athlete, no lessons, etc.). Now I’m 53 and on the comeback trail (about a 14) after 15 years of not much play, career change, etc. My iron game is atrocious. I don’t hit down on much other than my wedges. I “pick” most of my irons and have very irregular solid contact. I look down at a 3 iron and think “you’ve got to be kidding” (nice swing thought, huh).

My ball flight is very low. When I do hit down on a medium iron I get a sharp, low hook. I probably stand a bit too far from the ball at address.

I live in Chicago, so I haven’t practiced much but when I do, after awhile I’m able to stay down, behind the ball, hit down and make good contact. But when I move to the course it’s soon a debacle. I liked a recent post about changing clubs and positions on the range instead of just “exercising”.

I’m off to Florida on Sunday (World Woods) and I’d appreciate a few suggestions to practice striking down on the ball and maybe a few swing-thoughts for the course.

Sorry for the life story, but this is my 1st post (on ANY forum) so I thought a short intro would help.



Thanks in advance, MJC

Sounds like you have the fear of hitting the ground, and having the club shatter in your hands when you do. Long irons especially are hard to get the release and distance just right.

Start out with hitting 1/2 shots like long chips with your 7i until you get comfortable. Remember to rotate your shoulders fully back and through, even though you are only taking your arms 1/2 way. Let you hands set and release fully too.

When you get balls being hit crisply, begin to increase your arms up to 3/4. Don't leave the 7i until you are hitting 100%. This may take a while (2-3 practice sessions) but this way you build confidence for the longer clubs, where you will start over at 1/2 swings again with the 6i.

Eventually, you will get there. There is a TON of info on this site to talk about proper grip, hand actions, drills, tips and tricks.

Keep it simple to start out and don't over analyze yet. Plenty of time for that later (-;

Good luck!

Thanks, Greg. I'll start practicing that way on Sat.

MJC