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Anyone who watched this week’s Open knows how much wind affects golf putts.
Pros are forced to keep the ball low and adjust their speeds on the shooting surface. And the players who do this effectively see the most success at Royal Liverpool.
Since playing in windy conditions can be a challenge, I’m giving you tips on how the right stance, technique, and ability can help you become a great wind player. Take a look at some of the tips below.
1. React, don’t overdo it
There are some things in golf that you can’t control – and weather conditions are one of them.
Since some days will be windy, you should be aware of that and be calm. Instead of complaining or overreacting to the situation, accept the challenge, take the right stance, and respond appropriately. By doing this, you will give yourself the best chance of shooting low.
2. Measure how much on the run
Practicing before any ride is important, but even more so when you’re dealing with windy conditions. By doing so, it will help you measure wind speed, and will give you time to determine how many wind clubs you are dealing with.
For example, if you would normally hit a bowler’s wedge from a distance that would require an 8-iron, that would be considered a two-stroke wind.
Remember, the higher the wind speed, the more you need to adjust.
3. Modify if needed in the session
While the range is a good starting point for gauging the amount of wind you’ll have to deal with, the trajectory may be different – it may be more or less.
Once you’ve determined how much you think you’ll need based on your warm-up, be prepared to adjust for wind up or down during the run.
When you think you’ve got a perfect shot, but it ends up short, that’s a sign that you’ll need to increase the amount of club you use to avoid wind effects.
4. More of a Club: Smaller swing and less spin
Full swings have more speed, so the ball will fly higher. The higher you hit the ball in windy conditions, the more affected it will be.
A great option in the wind is to take a little extra club and take a smaller swing. A good measure is about three-quarters.
The smaller the swing, the lower the speed, lift and spin of the ball.
5. Hit the chips over the pitches
Super windy days can affect your short game too!
Instead of hitting high-frequency shots that can be devoured by the wind and move off your line, I recommend using low-frequency shots like chips and jabs. With these options, you’ll have more control over the ball, helping you avoid the wind and getting you closer to the pin.
6. Knock Downs
We like that it goes straight, and it’s also great on really windy days. I play a lot of golf in Florida, and knowing how to hit a putt is almost a must.
Here’s how to perform this type of shot.
Center the ball slightly back in your stance. Take your normal setup, then lean your weight and upper body slightly toward the target.
If the ball is in the back, you may want to drop your front foot back a bit to realign your shoulders and make it easier to keep your weight on that front foot throughout the swing.
As you swing, keep your weight on your front foot. This will also help limit the length of your backswing, which is important, as your follow-through should also be shorter.
Finally, keep your arms swinging forward in the follow-through, keeping the pole leaning forward and lowering the top of the face on impact.
7. Use Less Loft in the Fairway Woods
There is nothing more satisfying than watching a boardwalk sail through the air. Given the amazing loft of these clubs, when you’re facing a downwind shot, it’s a good option.
However, when going into the wind, pick a different club. Using a lower fairway wood (such as a 5 or 3 lumber) may be a better option, as it can help cut through the wind, increasing distance and roll.
8. The higher you hit the ball, the greater your reaction should be
Some golfers hit the ball higher than others. In general, the faster the paddle, the greater the flight of the ball.
If you are a player who shoots the ball high, you will need to respond by making adjustments to the club. This means adding a club when hitting the wind, and subtracting it to the wind.
The higher you hit it, the more the wind tends to bend the golf ball.
9. Make the necessary adjustments to the situation
As mentioned earlier, gusty winds will also affect the short game – and sometimes this will include your position.
The faster the green, the more wind will affect your putting speed. But in most cases it takes a very windy day.
One of the training tools I like to use to help feel in control of distance and intervals is True Target Marker. So whether you’re tackling the wind or during a perfectly sunny day, you’ll ooze confidence with every stroke.
10. The wind affects everyone
No matter how windy conditions get, you should remember this: They affect every other player on the golf course, too.
This is where the ability to act and good behavior will be a huge advantage. So realize that everyone has these same challenges, adapt your game, and get smarter with your gameplay in order to unleash your best self.
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