A common question to golf professionals is: why am I so inconsistent? While there can be dozens of legitimate reasons, one common denominator that I see is that the lie of a ball is very inconsistent. Let’s face it, golf courses are not always very flat. Because the ball is only about 1.75 inches thick, a subtle change in topography can have dramatic effects on the shot. If the ball is even a half an inch above your feet, you may hit it “fat” if the ball is a half an inch below your feet you may hit it “thin”.

A good pre-shot routine should include evaluating the slight variations in slope that are standard on even the flattest of golf courses. By making yourself aware of these variations and slopes, you can make the proper adjustments to hit better shots. See below for tips on how to make the proper adjustments.

Adjustments for Inconsistent Lies:

Ball above your feet

Slide your hands down on the grip and then swing normally keeping your body/legs as normal as possible during swing. Vary the amount you move your hands down on the grip based on the degree that the ball is above your feet. Shorten length of backswing. Ball may go to left – amount left increases with the amount ball is above your feet.

Ball below your feet-

Bend your knees and maintain the bend throughout backswing and follow through. Try not to bend at the waist any more than a normal swing. Shorten length of backswing. Ball may go to right.

Dale Samar, PGA

Rancho Mañana Golf Club

5734 E. Rancho Manana Blvd

Cave Creek, Arizona 85331

480-488-0398