Practice Wedge Shots

What happens when impact isn't on the sweetspot? As in putting, the clubhead twists, so the shot starts off-line. But it also means the swing's energy isn't being fully transferred to the ball.

FRED VUICH

If your wedge shots are flying short and off-line, work on quality of impact. Hit a half-dozen wedges, using impact tape or talcum powder on the clubface to check your pattern. If contact is on the toe, read last month's article, which explained how an open stance creates an out-to-in swing. Toe hits also could result from swinging over the top. The cure for this -- as well as impact all over the face -- is a simple drill.

Lay a two-by-four on the ground (on its long side, not flat). Then place a ball one inch from the wood and swing. If you hit the top or side of the board, keep practicing until you can make clean contact without touching it before or after impact. Do this, and you'll be making an inside-square-inside swing -- and solid contact.