How to play a low punch

The consistent execution of a low punch stems largely from the set-up. By making sure the ball position is slightly back in the stance and the weight is favouring the front foot, we encourage a lower, more driven ball flight from a crisp, clean contact.

In addition, by swinging slightly softer with a longer, less lofted club and utilising the sensation of a long chip and run, where the bigger muscles of the body control the movement, we can limit the spin imparted on the ball and ensure a more boring trajectory is delivered.

It can feel like a very rigid action, shorter in both the backswing and throughswing, but requires a fully committed turn of the body throughout.

So, next time you want to hit a low punch, remember these four keys:

1. BALL BACK IN YOUR STANCE

Positioning the ball back of the centre of the stance, while keeping the weight favouring the front foot, allows the hands to set-up slightly ahead and will help ‘trap’ the ball at impact and deliver a more penetrating flight.

2. CURTAILED ‘BACK AND THROUGH’ SWING

A shorter backswing and follow through allows the bigger muscles to control the movement, removing the hands from the shot and, therefore, delivering less spin on the ball flight. Ideal for keeping the ball low throughout its journey

3. HOOD THE CLUBFACE

Hooding the clubface on the way back will take loft off the club, while encouraging the hands to lead through impact, by holding it square through the ball in order to prevent the ball spinning left and promoting the punched trajectory.

4. LET THE HANDS LEAD THE CLUB

Ensuring that the hands lead the club through impact as the body commits to a full turn promotes a ‘later hit’ (improved wrist lag) which, in turn, allows loft to be limited and helps produce the more driven trajectory.

Andrew Jowett is the Head Golf Professional at The Gleneagles Hotel. For lessons, call Andrew on 01764 694343. Follow him on Twitter @andyj1504

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