The ability to consistently hit a fairway wood is a score changer in golf. This club allows most amateurs to set up a reasonable approach shot the green on a long par 4 or par 5 hole. I have watched many players struggle with hitting these longer clubs because of their set up and efforts to ‘help’ the club do its job. As a result, golfers are left with longer approach shots which over time adds 3 to 5 strokes to your final score. I following video might help change this paradigm and improve your ability to hit a solid and consistent fairway wood.

The video I chose today deals with set up and why we position our fairway wood to execute a great shot off the grass. It really is not overly challenging once it is broken down into understandable segments. Here take a look and we can discuss further.

Two points I want to emphasize are the ball position and expectations. Having the ball placed in the proper spot for our swing is critical. Slightly ahead of center works best for my swing, but that may not be the spot for you. I recommend going to the range and placing a tee at the center of your stance. Then place a tee every ball width moving towards your front heel. Then start hitting balls from each location. You will find that one of those positions will be the best contact spot for your fairway wood as realized by the results and feel. This is how I figure out my ball position for my fairway woods many years ago. On a side note, this drill works for all your clubs.

The second important point is expectations. Most amateurs cannot hit their fairway woods a country mile. We can hit it fairly far, however expecting it to travel farther than our drives is a bit pie in the sky. Generally, players who try to crush their fairway woods end up mishitting the ball. Their bodies react differently and the swing plane is forced. This challenge is universal, in my opinion, and one that can be avoided. I like the statement of hitting our fairway woods like a 7 iron. A smooth controlled swing will result in consistent shots with a fair bit of distance.

Hitting a fairway wood off the deck is a challenge. Most of the time, my shots are acceptable. However, every once in a while all the stars align and I crush the shot. If I could only remember how to do this all the time 😉 Regardless, following the few simple tips today might be the answer you are looking for when hitting your fairway woods.

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