Golf is a sport that requires a lot of practice and understanding to improve one’s swing. However, there is no shortage of well-intentioned but ultimately incorrect golf advice that circulates among golfers. In this article, we will discuss five common pieces of golf advice that you should ignore, and instead, focus on the correct techniques to improve your game.
The first piece of advice to ignore is to tee the ball lower if you pop up your driver. Contrary to popular belief, teeing the ball lower does not always solve the problem of hitting pop-up drives. In fact, teeing the ball lower can create a steeper angle of attack, which can lead to even more pop-ups. To avoid this, focus on keeping a high tee height, tilting your shoulders away from the target, and swinging up on the ball.
Another common misconception is to always use an open clubface in the bunker. While opening the clubface can be helpful in certain situations, such as short greenside bunker shots, it is not necessary for every bunker shot. On longer bunker shots or for players with lower swing speeds, leaving the clubface square can be a better technique. It is important to adjust your clubface based on the specific shot you are facing.
The advice to keep your head down is also a common misconception that can hinder your swing. Keeping your head down for too long can restrict your body’s ability to pivot on the forward swing, leading to fat shots or reduced distance. Instead, focus on watching the club hit the ball and then allow your head to turn toward the target as you turn your body.
Using a high-lofted wedge close to the green is another piece of advice that should not always be followed. While hitting a high pitch at the flag can be visually appealing, it may not always be the best shot selection for the situation. It is important to assess what type of shot is needed and choose the appropriate club based on that assessment. Sometimes, a bump-and-run with an iron may be a better option than a high flop shot.
Lastly, the advice to get under the ball to get it in the air is counterintuitive and can lead to poor contact. Instead of trying to get under the ball, focus on hitting down on the ball to achieve better contact. Making ball-first contact will help you get the ball in the air and improve the quality of your shots.
