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Tony Amaral
PGA Professional
Tip 9: Fairway Woods
Most golfers who have trouble hitting a wood from the fairway typically have the same faults. The problem usually can be traced to one of three areas -- the position of the ball, the shifting of your weight on the backswing, and left-side control on the forward swing. When hitting a fairway wood, position the ball about two inches inside your left heel so you can sweep the ball off the turf. Then, remember to shift your weight to the right foot by turning back with your left shoulder and arm. Finally, as you unwind and transfer your weight on the forward swing, you must maintain control of your left side as you hit through the ball in order to make consistent shots. Here's a drill that will help you do this: Place a tee about six inches in front of the ball. When you swing, use the tee as a reference point as you extend the club through the ball. Keep practicing this, and you'll start hitting long, accurate shots with your fairway woods.
Tony Amaral is the head professional at Woodbridge Country Club, Woodbridge, CT. To improve your game, visit a Connecticut Section PGA Golf Professional.