by Coach Marley
Shot Shape and Trajectory Control in Golf :
When it comes to shot shaping, there are many myths and different approaches. As you read this blog, it s important to go out and explore various ways to change your ball flight. Whether you re attending a Golf Masterclass or working through your own practice, experimentation is key.
Short Shaping:
First things first we need to understand what causes shot shaping. Shot shape is influenced by the difference between where the clubface points and the club path at impact. For example, if the clubface points at the target but the club path is left of the target, the ball will start close to the target and curve to the right. I strongly believe that setup and shoulder position at impact have a huge influence on achieving the desired shot shape. Let me break down how I approach it.
Fade:
Firstly, I set my stance open to my intended target, with the ball positioned one ball-width forward from my standard position. From there, the clubface points slightly left of the target but still right of the line created by my feet.
Swing Feeling
The key here is maintaining the clubface direction from setup while allowing the shoulders to follow the line of the feet at impact. I firmly believe that shoulder alignment plays a major role in controlling club path. The more open your stance, the more pronounced the fade..
Draw:
For a draw, we simply mirror the fade setup in the opposite direction. My feet are aligned right of the target, with the clubface slightly right as well. The ball position moves one ball-width back
Swing Feeling:
On the downswing, I focus on my shoulders following the line of my feet at impact. This time, I also feel more release and rotation in my hands to help close the face relative to the path.
How to Change Trajectory:
Both stance and swing play a key role in controlling trajectory. This is often covered in Golf Coaching sessions, as it directly impacts consistency.
High Shots
To hit the ball higher, I move the ball slightly forward in my stance and focus on shallowing my angle of attack. I achieve this by feeling that my hands, chest, and body finish higher after impact. Many golfers try to scoop the ball, which is incorrect. Instead, focus on a tall finish and brushing the grass after the ball rather than taking a deep divot. This helps increase loft and launch angle, resulting in a higher ball flight.
Low Ball Flight
For a lower trajectory, position the ball one ball-width back in your stance. This time, the hands should finish lower almost like a sawn-off finish. Don t be afraid to create a slightly steeper angle of attack. This reduces spin loft and launch angle, keeping the ball flight lower. Great players often use this technique effectively, especially in windy conditions.
If these ideas don t work for you, don t worry. Everyone s swing is different, and finding what suits you best is important. You can also explore alternative methods through guided sessions like a Golf Masterclass or structured Golf Coaching. And remember while working on ball flight, don t neglect the short game. Drills that help you Improve Your Putting Stroke can make a huge difference in lowering your scores overall.
