Playing from slopes - Uphill and downhill lies

Lesson 18 of 20

Playing from slopes - Uphill and downhill lies

      Players are often faced with shots from sloped lies that make a relatively easy shot suddenly more challenging. By making a few adjustments to your stance, alignment and swing you can successfully hit these shots solid and more accurately.

Uphill lie - hitting up the hill
      When faced with an uphill lie stand perpendicular to the slope which will position your right shoulder lower than normal. This allows you to swing parallel to the slope so you won't hit into the ground after contacting the ball. Swing down the slope on your backswing and up the slope on your forward swing. Your weight will remain on your rear side, and because we tend to hook the ball from this position aim slightly right of your target. This position also creates more loft so you'll generally want to use more club.

Downhill lie - hitting down the hill
      With a downhill lie you will also want to stand perpendicular to the slope. This stance will put more weight on your left side and your hands will be ahead of the club. Pick the club up on your backswing and swing down and through on the forward swing. Feel that you are chasing the ball down the slope with your club head. Downhill shots are easier played with more lofted clubs. Because the ball will fly lower and run farther you will want to use less club than normal.

To schedule a lesson with Steve call Golf Rx at (615) 288-4539.