golfrewind.com

I am a fifteen handicapper. I have high hope that I will break 80 this year now that I have developed fairly good consistency with the driver, fair-way woods and hybrids (5,4, 3R).

But I have problems with iron shots. I often slice or shank with them. I think I know what causes it, but I don't seem to be able to correct it. I think I don't move the right hip out of the way by shifting to the left on down swing. I have no problem with the woods in this matter. Why is there difference between irons and woods? If I knew the difference, I would be able to correct it myself. Do you have any suggestions?

I would say that with shorter clubs since the arc of the swing is shorter you have less time to get the hips moving and out of the way. Slowing down your swing or opening your stance on the higher clubs may help. Try starting your downswing with a body turn or hip bump rather than with the hands. Just some thoughts.

slow down your swing and try to take a slight baseball swing at the ball. hips should just rotate and not shift. slow everything down and see if that works.

I don't claim to have a cure-all for shanks, but when I get them I have a fix.

When I shank the ball, it seems to be because my body is active and my hands/arms get lazy. I get rid of them quick with the swing thought of accelerating my arms and releasing the toe of the club. Releasing the toe of the club should also help your slice.

Breaking 80 is going to depend a lot on your iron play. Hitting your woods and hybrids good is obviously going to help, but your iron play and short game are where the emphasis should be. Once your ballstriking is fixed, concentrate on course management and get in the habit of developing a quick hole strategy when your on your way to the tee box. Course management can make the difference between a day of bogey golf and a score in the upper 70's, of that I am sure.

move the position of the ball within your stance and slow your swing down. possibly check your grip and alignment.