How To Put Backspin On Wedge Shots
Imparting back spin on a soaring approach shot into a tight pin position, is likely the most outstanding shot in the game of golf . It draws gasps of a amazement from the onlookers and enables golfers to attack the most difficult pin positions . But how do they do it.
To get a golf ball to ’suck backwards’, several key factors need to be considered .
Five Factors
1. The Golf Ball
The hard two piece balls that most golfers play with are very difficult to spin. In fact they are createdt to add distance by creating top spin, the opposite of backspin. In order to create backspin it is important to play with a soft cover balata ball.
2. The Condition of the Lie If the ball is lying down in the rough it is difficult to impart backspin because the grass comes between the ball and the grooves of the club head and eliminates the bite needed to create back spin. The best lie for creating backspin is a tight lie on the fairway.
3. Clubs The golf club used is a critical factor in generating backspin, the more loft the greater the backspin . There are wedges being sold that have rusted faces. These types of wedges have even more friction and thus increase the back spin imparted on the ball . Even discount golf clubs are made with good biting grooves and are considered good golf equipment.
4. The Wind Direction
It is very difficult to impart backspin if the wind is blowing in the direction of the shot. It is much easier to impart backspin if the wind is blowing toward the golfer.
5. The Condition of the Greens
The ideal spin conditions are for greens to be slightly damp and sticky . It’s difficult to generate backspin if greens are firm .
The Swing
Address the ball in the centre of your stance. Put 65% of the weight on the front foot nearest the target and ensure hands are ahead of the ball. Make a conscious effort to retain this weigh distribution throughout the swing and focus on generating an upright backswing. Keep your lower body movement quiet and allow the arms to swing in front of your body. This promotes a downward angle of attack and ensures clean contact with the back of the ball .
Focus on keeping your hands in front of the ball at impact, gripping the ball first then turf. Greg Norman advocated an excellent feeling to ensure this position. He stated it’s critical to retain the wrist angle established at address by focusing on moving the palm of your back hand through the ball at impact. This will also prevent any drastic releasing of the golf club and ensure a sharp angle of attack.
It’s important to swing fully through the shot and maintain good acceleration and club head speed.
This shot takes time to learn so be patient . Go to the range, implement the technique, build muscle memory and then take it to the course. Commit to the shot and enjoy the gasps of admiration from your playing partners.
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