UNEVEN LIES, UPHILL, DOWNHILL, AND SIDE-HILL LIES
UNEVEN LIES
UPHILL, DOWNHILL, AND SIDE-HILL LIES
Uneven lies are challenging for players of all levels. For right-handed golfers, an uphill lie is when the target foot is above the back foot, while on a downhill slope the back foot is below the target foot. The opposite applies to left-handed golfers. Whatever the direction of the slope, two key principles apply to every shot. First, you must tilt your shoulders on the same angle of the slope. Second, a basic adjustment is to reduce the length of your swing so you are able to maintain good tempo and rhythm and to prevent you from losing your balance.
Uphill slope:
1. Take one more club. An upslope increase loft so that you hit higher
and shorter that normal.
2. The ball will tend to hook. Adjust the aim of the clubface and the body’s alignment.
3. Tilt your torso toward the back foot.
4. Position the ball a little closer to your target heel than usual, helping you to sweep the ball more smoothly off of the slope.
5. For more control, use a three-quarter swing.
Downhill slope:
1. Take one less club. A downhill lie reduces loft so that you hit the ball lower and further than usual.
2. The ball will tend to fade. Adjust the aim of the clubface and the body’s alignment.
3. Tilt your torso toward the target foot.
4. Position the ball slightly closer to your back heel.
5. Use a three quarter swing and follow through down the hill.
Ball above level of feet:
1. Hold the club lower. Your posture is more upright than on level ground.
2. Aim and align right to the target.
3. Put the ball in the middle of your stance.
4. Make sure you have a controlled swing with a smooth tempo on the downswing.
5. Your swing should be slightly flatter than normal, so that your hands stay lower at the finish.
Ball below level of feet:
1. Keep your weight on your heels.
2. Aim and align left to the target.
3. Put the ball in the middle of your stance.
4. Use a controlled swing.
5. Your follow through should be more restricted than usual because your bent posture limits your body rotation.
In all instances, be sure to take a practice swing and take note as to where your club is striking the ground. If you can remember the basics for playing these shots and practicing them, your chances of hitting good shots will greatly increase.
Enjoy your game and if you want more information
call Marie-Claire De Bortoli
(772) 285 0311