Golf Technology Far East

How do I improve my Wood Shots?

If a player hasn't got a good grip he has two chances; slim and none.
(Gene Sarazan)

FAIRWAY WOODS

Many golfers find it hard to hit a long iron but feel more comfortable using a fairway wood. One reason for this is that the fairway wood is a sweeping shot and the golfer does not have to hit down on the ball or take a divot. Mentally this makes the shot less challenging.

To play the shot, make sure the club head lies flat on the ground and concentrate on sliding the club back along the ground rather than using the lifting action associated with an iron.
Aim to sweep the club through the ball with a smooth action and try to picture the end result of where you want the ball to land before you make the actual shot. Again, the mental picture of how the shot will go, will also help to relax your swing and give a focus and direction to your efforts.

To improve your game you must have a rough idea how far you can hit the ball with each club. Most players over estimate the distance they hit the ball, go to the range and see where the ball LANDS, not where it runs to, that is the true distance you can hit the ball.

DRIVING

When playing with a big hitter don't watch them hit their drives as you will fall into the trap of trying to hit the ball as far as them and you will lose your rhythm. Take time to look at the flowers, concentrate on your own game and play within your own limitations.
Be careful when you are lining up your shot. On some tees it is very easy to align yourself with the tee boxes rather than the direction you want to hit the ball. If you are in any doubt then always check the direction your hips are aligned to by placing your club across them and parallel to the ground. This will give you a better visual indication of your stance.
Pick an exact point on the fairway where you want to land the ball. Driving is all about being positive. If you stand on the tee with no idea where the ball will go then it will probably go where you don't want it to go. Picking and aiming at an exact spot gives you focus and a sense of purpose.
If Tiger Woods, who is probably one of the longest and straightest drivers ever, is willing to take an iron or a fairway wood when the need arises then why do amateur golfers always think they can do better. If the fairway is tight or there are hazards then why not play a percentage shot and use a three, four or even five wood off the tee and play for position.