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Tiger Woods Breaks Down His Iron Game – Use These Tips

Published

3 years ago

December 12, 2021

My swing and my game have evolved over the years, but one thing has remained consistent: I’m always confident with an iron in my hand.

I’m not one of the longest hitters on tour anymore—I can’t hit a wedge 150-plus yards like some guys do—so my iron game is absolutely critical to my success at this stage. It sounds simple, but the best way to make birdies is to hit your approaches close. To do that, you need to have distance control, which is possible only with consistent contact. For example, I hit my irons so pure last year at Augusta, and because of that, I had a ton of good looks at birdie. Two specific shots from Sunday’s final round come to mind: On 7, when I needed a birdie to jump-start the round, I hit my trusted low, trapping fade to tap-in range. Then on 16, I hit a high-draw 8-iron that plopped down in the perfect spot, took the slope and finished about three feet from the cup. That birdie gave me a two-shot lead and firm control of the tournament.

Note that one of those shots was a low fade and the other a high draw. I’ve always taken pride in my ability to vary trajectory and shape the ball both ways. Very few of my iron shots look exactly the same. Still, there are a few basics I try to apply to every iron shot, and they’re principles you can use for your game.

The first thing I do is take a good look at the lie. Is it anything out of the ordinary? Is it above or below my feet?

Is it in a divot? If it’s in the rough, is it a flyer?

Once I assess the lie, I shift my focus to the green complex. I like to let the course dictate what type of shot I’m trying to hit. Where is the exact spot I want the ball to land? Generally, I tend to hit more draws to left pins and fades to right pins, but there are exceptions. For example, sometimes it’s more important to have the ball working away from a hazard than toward the flag. Amateurs don’t think enough about things like that before they start their pre-shot routine.

As far as my setup, because of all my back issues, I’ve tried to avoid side bend in my swing, and that all starts with how I stand to the ball. I like to find a balanced and athletic posture that’s free of any tension in my arms or shoulders.

A good thought for me, and one that should help you make solid contact, is to keep your shoulders, hips and knees stacked on the same vertical plane throughout the motion. My baseline is to be as neutral as possible at address, with everything square to the target—then I’ll make adjustments to my stance and clubface for a draw or a fade, or for a low shot or a high shot.

I play the ball a bit farther forward in my stance than the average tour pro—it’s just my preference—and as a result I tend to sweep my irons more than dig. I’ll move the ball one ball forward in my stance if I’m trying to hoist one up, and I’ll play one ball back of normal if I’m trying to flight it down.

J.D. Cuban

When I swing, my thoughts are pretty simple and more feel-oriented than technical. I don’t watch my swing on video too often. I prefer to feel things with my hands, then confirm with my buddy Rob McNamara that he sees what I’m feeling.

My backswing has changed quite a bit throughout the years. I used to load up much more on my right side and try to create as much width as possible. As a result, my weight would move to my right leg, and my head would slide laterally away from the target. That’s how a young man swings the club. Now, to put less strain on my body, I try to keep my head and chest more stable and turn more around my right side.

To a large extent, my backswing is a function of my setup. At certain times in my career, I’ve had my hands lower or higher at address. For me, lower hands resulted in an earlier wrist set, and higher hands resulted in a later one. Now I feel like I’m quite neutral with my setup, which leads to a wrist set that happens around rib height.

Once I’ve completed my backswing—which almost always stops short of parallel because I’m concerned with hitting the ball the right distance, not the farthest distance—my main thought is to push down into the ground and clear my hips. That’s one reason my latest knee scope was so important. Toward the end of the summer, pain in my left knee prevented me from pushing hard. I was sliding a bit, which made it nearly impossible to get the hip rotation I needed to hit my cut. My other thought is to not let my hands get stuck behind me, which leads to having to save the swing and manipulate the face with my hands—that’s no good. The best way to avoid getting stuck is to not let the lower body out-race the hands on the downswing. My thought is to have everything synced when I reach impact.

J.D. Cuban

I like to think that my follow-through determines how high the ball is going to launch. In reality, my follow-through is a result of my angle of attack. When I’m steeper and trying to flight it down, I feel like I cut off the swing shortly after impact. If I shallow it out to launch the ball really high, I throw my hands way up over my head and let them finish over my left shoulder.

Again, I’m a shotmaker at heart, and one of my favorite parts of playing golf is carving iron shots. I wouldn’t recommend amateurs try to work it as much as I do, but the basics I’ve laid out here will help you make better contact, which will allow you to hit the ball the right distance—and hopefully give yourself some tap-in birdies like I had at last year’s Masters. –with Daniel Rapaport

This article originally appeared on Golf Digest.

Related Topics:equipment Swing Tip Tiger Woods

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Rainy Day Golf

Published

23 hours ago

September 13, 2024

Ty Webb

Making the Most of Wet Weather on the Course

Ahoy, intrepid golfers! This week, we’re embracing the elements and diving headfirst into the wonderful world of rainy day golf. Because let’s face it – a little rain shouldn’t dampen our spirits or our love for the game. So grab your umbrellas, slip on your rain gear, and let’s make the most of wet weather on the course:

1. Embrace the Adventure: Rainy day golf isn’t just about playing through the rain – it’s about embracing the adventure and finding joy in the challenge. So throw on your waterproof gear, channel your inner adventurer, and prepare to tackle the elements like a true golfing pioneer.

2. Gear Up for Success: The key to enjoying rainy day golf is proper preparation. Invest in high-quality rain gear, including waterproof jackets, pants, and gloves, to keep you dry and comfortable throughout your round. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella and a towel to wipe down your equipment between shots.

3. Adjust Your Expectations: Playing golf in the rain requires a shift in mindset and expectations. Accept that your shots may not fly as far, the greens may be slower, and the conditions may be less than ideal. But remember, every golfer on the course is facing the same challenges, so stay positive and focus on adapting to the conditions.

4. Master the Wet Weather Shots: Rainy day golf presents its own set of challenges, but it also offers opportunities to hone your skills and try out new shots. Experiment with low-trajectory shots to keep the ball under the wind and rain, and practice your chipping and putting techniques on the soggy greens. You may be surprised at how much you can learn – and improve – in less-than-perfect conditions.

5. Embrace the Beauty of Nature: Rainy days may not be everyone’s idea of perfect golfing weather, but there’s a certain beauty and tranquility to be found on the rain-soaked fairways. Take the time to appreciate the lush greenery, the glistening raindrops, and the peaceful serenity of the course. After all, golf is as much about connecting with nature as it is about hitting the ball.

So there you have it, fellow adventurers – the secrets to making the most of rainy day golf. With the right attitude, gear, and mindset, you can turn even the dreariest of days into a memorable and enjoyable round on the links. Until next time, may your swings be smooth, your putts be true, and your rain dances be well-rewarded. Rain on, my friends!

Blog

From Divots to Dimples

Published

7 days ago

September 7, 2024

Ty Webb

The language of golf explained

Fore! Welcome, fellow golf aficionados, to a crash course in the language of golf – a colorful tapestry of terms and expressions that are as unique and varied as the game itself. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a greenhorn just starting out, understanding the language of golf is essential for navigating the fairways and greens with confidence and clarity. So grab your clubs, tee up your balls, and let’s dive into the lexicon of golf like true linguists on the links.

1. Divots: Let’s start with a classic – the divot. This term refers to the patch of turf that gets displaced when you take a swing at the ball, leaving behind a little chunk of earth in its wake. Divots are a natural part of the game and are often repaired by golfers as a courtesy to the next player.

2. Dimples: No, we’re not talking about those cute little indentations on your cheeks – we’re talking about the dimples on a golf ball. These tiny indentations help reduce drag and increase lift, allowing the ball to fly farther and straighter through the air. So the next time you marvel at the aerodynamics of a golf ball, just remember – it’s all in the dimples.

3. Mulligan: Ah, the mulligan – every golfer’s favorite do-over. This informal rule allows players to take an extra shot without penalty, usually reserved for shots that end up in the trees, the water, or the rough. It’s a time-honored tradition that’s as cherished as it is controversial, so use it wisely and sparingly.

4. Birdie, Eagle, Albatross: These aren’t just feathered friends – they’re also terms used to describe a golfer’s performance on a particular hole. A birdie is one stroke under par, an eagle is two strokes under par, and an albatross (or double eagle) is three strokes under par. So if you’re lucky enough to score one of these elusive creatures, be sure to celebrate like the champion you are.

5. Fore!: Last but not least, we have the timeless cry of “fore!” – a warning shouted by golfers to alert others of an errant shot heading their way. Whether it’s a wayward drive or a shanked iron, shouting “fore!” is the courteous thing to do to prevent accidents and keep everyone safe on the course.

So there you have it, fellow linguists of the links – a crash course in the language of golf. Whether you’re navigating divots and dimples, taking a mulligan, scoring birdies and eagles, or shouting “fore!” to warn your fellow golfers, understanding the language of golf is essential for mastering the game and enjoying the camaraderie of the fairway. So the next time you step onto the course, speak the language of golf with confidence and clarity – and remember, it’s not just a game, it’s a language all its own. Until next time, may your drives be long, your putts be true, and your vocabulary be as rich and varied as the game of golf itself. Swing on, my friends!

Blog

Revolutionizing the Ancient Game with New Innovations

Published

1 week ago

September 4, 2024

Robert Greenfield

Hello, golf lovers,

In our ongoing series “Tales from the Greens: Chronicles of Golf Through the Ages,” today we delve into the technological innovations that have transformed golf. From the digital booking systems like Loop Golf to advanced performance-tracking apps like 18Birdies, technology is not only changing how the game is played and taught but also enhancing how fans engage with the sport. Let’s explore how these advancements are revolutionizing golf.

Simulation and Virtual Reality

Golf simulators and virtual reality (VR) have significantly altered golf training and entertainment, allowing players to engage in virtual courses year-round, irrespective of weather conditions. These technologies replicate real-world physics in an immersive 3D environment, making practice both effective and engaging, particularly valuable in urban settings where real course access is limited.

Advanced Performance Tracking with 18Birdies

The 18Birdies app offers a suite of sophisticated tools that track performance and provide detailed analytics. It features a GPS rangefinder, score tracking, and social feed functionalities, allowing golfers to connect, share achievements, and participate in local golfing events and competitions, making golf more interactive and community-oriented.

Automated Tee Time Bookings via Loop Golf

LoopGolf.co revolutionizes how golfers secure tee times. By automating the booking process and continuously monitoring course availability, the platform ensures that golfers can effortlessly book slots even during peak times. This system is especially beneficial for securing tee times at popular courses, typically a challenging task.

Enhanced Course Management and Mobility

Technological advancements have also redefined course management and golfer mobility on the greens. Electric and solar-powered golf carts equipped with GPS provide precise yardages and strategic insights during play. Modern course management systems optimize maintenance and irrigation schedules, promoting sustainability and better playing conditions.

Transformative Viewing Experiences

For spectators, augmented reality (AR) and 360-degree video technologies offer immersive viewing experiences, making fans feel as though they are part of the live action. Additionally, streaming services and mobile apps allow fans to watch tournaments from anywhere, providing real-time statistics and player information, enhancing the spectator experience.

Technology’s integration into golf is a testament to the sport’s evolution, blending tradition with modernity. These innovations not only make golf more accessible and enjoyable but also ensure its relevance and growth in today’s digital world.

Join me next time as we explore the environmental impact of golf and the sport’s adaptation to ecological challenges.

Thank you for following along in our exploration of how technology is transforming golf.

Warm regards,
Robert Greenfield