We have all heard the saying “Take the club back low and slow.” This tried and true statement has been around for a long time, and for good reason; it works. Why? Because, a slow, steady takeaway sets the stage for a good windup and smooth transition to the downswing. I want to further expand on this thought and show you how the first couple feet on the takeaway can help you obtain your desired angle of attack, ball flight, and trajectory.
Drivers, fairway woods, long irons, and hybrids: Drag the club back very low to the ground for the first 18 inches or so, also try to take it back straight from the ball. This will ensure a shallow angle of attack and a slightly ascending blow.
Short irons and wedges: The club should go back straight, but slightly steeper due to the shorter shaft. This will ensure a descending blow and clean contact.
Fade: Aim your body left of your intended target (where you want the ball to start), drag the club back along your foot line (slightly away from you). On the downswing, the club will continue to follow your foot line (slightly towards your body). This outside-in path will produce a fade.
Draw: Aim your body right of your intended target (where you want the ball to start), drag the club back along your foot line (slightly inside). On the downswing, the club will continue to follow your foot line, you will feel as though you are swinging out to the right of your intended target (slightly away from your body) this inside-out path will produce a draw.
Low: Ensure the ball is back in your stance (behind center) and that your hands are in front of the ball at address. Take the club back low to the ground as you would with a driver, you will use minimal wrist cock. On the way down, feel as though your hands are leading the club-head through impact, and try to stop your finish low, at about hip height. This will produce a low-flying shot.
High: Pay the ball slightly forward in your stance (inside your left heel), and take the club back straight but steeply with maximum wrist cock. On the way down, try to keep your head behind the ball as you fully release your hands through impact. This will produce a towering shot.
