Over the past month, I have experienced a higher than normal number of shots from poor lies around the green. Part of the reason is people not fixing their excavation area and others is just a rough patch on the course. Regardless, it is a shot I have to make from time to time and understanding the proper technique helps keep the double bogeys at bay.

I could go through the technique I use, but Instructor Alison Whitaker from Golfing World explains it perfectly.

I have used the heel up – toe down technique for years. It does work very well but it does take a bit of practice. Additionally, it works very well out of the long grass where your ball only needs to travel a few inches before hitting the collar and green. I generally us a 5-iron, but you will have to decide which club works best for you.

Two things to be aware when using this skill: first, the ball has a tendency to go left (I am right-handed), so aim a to the right of your normal line; second, the ball will roll out farther than expected, hitting it hard or down a steep grade is challenging. Other than these two points, this is a great shot to have in your bag.

Have you used this type of shot before?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

Written by Jim Burton from The Grateful Golfer blog.