Where you place the ball in your stance can have a huge impact on your numbers.
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Welcome to Play Smart, GOLF.com's regular game improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.
It's easy to get involved in the mechanics of the game of golf. There are a number of changes you can make to the way you swing the club that will affect how you hit the shot. However, there are some simple (and often very effective!) tweaks you can make before you replace the club.
Setup is a simple matter of neglect. It's not exactly “glamorous” to grind the way you stand on the ball. But without consistently nailing this key aspect of the curve, you'll never be in a position to find success.
One very important setup item is the ball position. And while you may think this setting is normal, it can have a big impact on your swing numbers.
Instructor Adam Young – a great follow-up to X for anyone interested in game development – recently posted a thread explaining the basics of the soccer field, and we're reposting it below.
Forward ball
If you put the ball too far forward in the situation, it gains a few things quickly. 1) It helps to deepen the angle of attack, and 2) It helps to add more dynamic surface to the clubface. This will often help you hit the ball harder – perfect for someone who struggles to increase the apex of the shot.
Along with the things highlighted above, moving the ball position forward also affects the path of the club as it enters the ball. Usually the more forward you put the ball on the fairway, the higher your club path will be on the left.
Ball back
Since the ball is back in your position, you will see the opposite effects of those listed above. You will experience an increased angle of attack and a lower loft, resulting in a lower ball flight.
Additionally, with the ball position behind the stance you will have a more outgoing club path on the right.
Which is better?
There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to the perfect soccer field. It all depends on your swing and what you are trying to do with any shot. It is generally recommended that you place the wedges just behind the center of your center and move the ball forward a little on every long club.
For best results, test yourself. Start with the ball in your center and move it forward and back with all the clubs, noting how the ball reacts. After a little practice, you will understand the nuances of the ball position and how to change it to get the best results of your swing.
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