Hitting a knockdown shot in golf can be a valuable skill to have, especially when playing in windy conditions or on a tight course. It involves making some setup adjustments and having the right swing thought to keep the ball low and control its trajectory. In this article, we will delve into the details of how to hit a successful knockdown shot and become a proficient wind player, as shared by Andrew Park, a Golf Digest Best in State Teacher at West Orange Country Club in Winter Garden, Florida.
One important aspect of hitting a knockdown shot is to grip down on the club. This involves gripping the club two inches lower than usual, which helps to lower your body to the ground and reduce spin on the shot. By gripping down, you can effectively cheat the wind and keep the ball flight lower, making it less susceptible to being affected by strong winds.
In addition to gripping down, widening your stance by two inches can also contribute to a successful knockdown shot. This adjustment helps to lower your center of gravity, allowing you to swing flatter and have a shallower downswing. Swinging flatter is crucial for keeping the ball low and minimizing spin, which is essential for navigating through windy conditions and tight course setups.
Another key component of hitting a knockdown shot is to move the ball back two inches in your stance. This adjustment helps to promote more shaft lean at impact, which can help take loft off the club and keep the ball trajectory lower. By moving the ball back, you can generate the necessary conditions for a successful knockdown shot that travels at a controlled height and distance.
It is also important to open the clubface slightly when setting up for a knockdown shot. Since the ball is positioned further back in your stance, the club moves on an arc that requires the face to be slightly open to be square to the point of impact. Failing to open the clubface could result in a pulled shot, so ensure that the face is angled correctly to produce the desired ball flight.
When executing a knockdown shot, focus on swinging from shoulder to shoulder and minimizing wrist action. By abbreviating your follow-through and using your body to propel the ball, you can reduce spin and maintain control over the shot. Keeping your backswing and follow-through at shoulder height can help you achieve the consistent trajectory needed for a successful knockdown shot.
Overall, mastering the knockdown shot requires attention to detail in your setup and swing mechanics. By incorporating grip adjustments, stance modifications, ball positioning, and swing techniques, you can develop a reliable knockdown shot that serves you well in challenging playing conditions. With practice and dedication, you can become a proficient wind player and enhance your overall golf game.
