1) When hitting from a downhill lie, the ball will fly lower than normal and, will tend to fade, depending upon how steep the slope.

2) There may be a problem staying in balance (especially during the downswing).

3) Being unsure of your technique and tightening up during the swing, there may be a tendency to “scull” the shot or “chunk” it.

To be successful hitting a shot from a downhill lie requires the following:

1) As the ball will tend to fade, align left (right-handers) of the target (depending upon the degree of slope).

2) Try to stand so your body is perpendicular to the slope. As this means leaning down the slope, take a wider stance to help you maintain your balance.

3) Play the ball further back in your stance than usual.

4) Make sure that your back swing is slow, beginning with your shoulders, and allowing your wrists to cock early, maintaining a relaxed grip throughout the swing.

Now for the most critical part: allow the club head to “lag” by using your lower body to make the down swing and letting your cocked wrists release naturally. As you practice this shot and learn to execute it properly, it will reinforce correct downswing technique for all your swings.

Our private practice area is perfect for working on these shots.