How to Control Your Golf Shot Trajectory

In golf, there are times when it is beneficial to play the ball both high and low.  For example, when the wind is howling in your face you are going to want to play a shot with a low flight path. On the contrary, if the wind is blowing hard from behind you might want to get the ball up in the air to get maximum distance from your shot. With that being said, how the heck do you do that?

Here are some tips that will help you flight the ball how you want to depending on the situation:

* For a Low Shot – You need to really take your set up into consideration when playing a low shot. For starters, play the ball back in your stance, and get your hands out in front so the shaft is leaning forward. This will deloft the club, essentially turning a 8 iron into a 6 iron. On your swing, you will want to take a shorter than normal back swing, and an even shorter follow through and finish. Ideally, you will stop your swing with your hands in front of you, where you can see them. This type of shot is a great shot to have in your bag, and can be used not only in windy conditions but when you are under trees and need to keep the ball low as well.

* For a High Shot – We have all been there, a tall tree stands in the way of the green and you need to get over the top. Opposite of the low shot, play this shot forward in your stance, but to far so making good contact with the ball first comes into question. Let your back shoulder hang lower than the front, so your spine is tilted away from your target. For this shot, put more weight than normal on your back foot. Find a comfortable and athletic stance, and swing big, really let this one go. Make a full finish with your swing, so your hands go above your head, and your back shoulder passes the front shoulder.

Being able to play both of these types of shots can help you navigate the course more efficiently. One of the best players to watch shape shots like this on tour is Bubba Watson. He has every shot in his bag, and uses them to avoid trouble.

If you work on these things you will be able to use these shots to your advantage on the course too!