Most golfers practice at a range where the lies are always flat, but on the golf course often side hill lies are encountered. Learn to predict what is likely to happen to the ball from difficult lies on sloping fairways.
Sidehill Lies - Ball Below your Feet
When the ball is below you feet level in all likelihood the ball will slice. This is because the swing you make will be steeper than usual. Not only are you more tilted over the ball, but having to maintain your balance during the swing makes it more difficult for you to turn correctly, which in turn makes the swing extra steep. Without a change to your usual swing the ball will slice away to the right.
- Aim left to accommodate the inevitable left to right flight.
- Because of the steepnes of the swing expect the ball to take off lower than normal.
- Flex your knees more than normal to lower yourself a few inches.
- Take plenty of club as your inability to turn correctly limits the power you can inject into the shot.
- Even though it’s more difficult than on a normal shot, try to swing to a full finish as this will stop you hitting at the ball which would impart more slice spin
Slopes - Ball Above your Feet
With the ball is higher than your feet level in all likelihood the ball will travel left of target, so aim right. The shorter the shot the further right you have to aim as the loft on the club will automatically start the shot left.
- Grip down the club slightly for extra control
- Take plenty of club so your swing remains under control. Keep your legs stable by bracing your right leg as the tendency is to lose balance resulting in a swing that is too rounded or flat.
- Expect the ball to hook in the air, as the rounded swing will automatically impart extra sidespin.
- Swing to a full finish to minimise a stabbing jerk at the ball, which will cause a glancing blow.
On all shots where you have to alter your swing keeping a good rhythm is essential. Most golfers try to use the same club as normal but taking more club will allow a golfer to accelerate smoothly.
There is also a tendency to slip while hitting these shots, particularly when the lie is severe, so before you play make sure the bottom of your shoes are clean. Use a tee peg to clean off any excess grass or mud between the spikes.
Above all don’t hit too hard. The most common fault when facing a tough lie is to hit at the ball. Remember, it’s a golf swing, not a hit.
See also: What Does Over the Top Swing Mean - PGA Tip and Adjust Head Angle to Hit the Golf Ball Better - PGA Tip
John Hoskison - John is a class 'A' member of the British PGA and author of the acclaimed book 'Inside - One Man's Experience of Prison'.
