The question in the heading of this article might seem silly considering that hybrids are in most if not all golf bags. They are open an opportunity for players, like myself, to improve their long iron game. I have used hybrids for a very long time because I feel that they offer a better opportunity for success when hitting those longer shots. The challenge that most amateurs have is knowing how to properly hit hybrids in order to glean the most distance and control from each hit. Once we master these clubs, then it opens a whole new world on the golf course.
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Ball Position For Hybrids and Fairway Woods
Do you have a challenge topping the ball with your hybrids or fairway woods? Or perhaps you take a huge divot with the same clubs? I know I had challenges in the past with my ball being too far forward in my stance. To hit the ball, I would have to lean forward to ensure I made relatively solid contact. But that all changed many years back when I realized that I was out balance with my follow through. I was fortunate to figure out my error, but I could have saved a great deal of time if I found this video earlier.
Continue readingYour Long Iron of Choice
Long irons are hard to hit! It is one part of my game that I always need to work on because of my ongoing inconsistency. A few years back, I wrote an article on the importance of long irons. It still applies today and is worth the read (in my opinion). However, I recently asked the question which was the long iron of choice and I have to say, I am not surprised by the results. Continue reading
Are Long Irons Important?
Long Irons are the most misunderstood clubs in a golfer’s bag. In some cases, these tools are dusty and look like brand new. Most beginners look at their long irons with fear and contempt because they find them difficult to hit and very unforgiving. Regardless of what your fears are associated with your long game; there are no secrets to success from 200 yards out.
There are many pundits who have the answers on long irons. Some will tell you to move your hands forward, others move them back. Experts talk about where to place the ball; forward, backward, or centre. Even your buddies talk about swing plane, releasing your hands early, weight shift, and on and on. Talk about white noise….please make it stop!
The basic mechanics of a golf swing are not supposed to change regardless of which club is in your hands. Most players take that to mean that exactly everything remains exactly the same. Unfortunately, that is not true. Using long irons is a perfect example. Below are two short videos that focus on a couple of aspects when hitting long irons. They advice is simple and easy to follow.
The discussion about posture and maintaining balance is very important when hitting long irons. It is important not to over swing, but maintain your normal rhythm.
Hand placement is very important with long irons. Most players reach when trying to hit long irons and that is a result of improper hand position.
If you are still having difficulty hitting your long irons, take the fear out of your came and consider switching to hybrids. There are some unique advantages to hybrids over irons especially for a higher handicap player. Although I was not trying to break 100, I switched to hybrids two years ago. This switch increased my confidence from 200 yards out and help lower my score.
I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!
Iron or Hybrid?
In recent years, hybrid clubs have hit the market, which in turn has sparked a hot debate. The question most asked is which is better. I would suggest that the average amateur golfer would benefit from hybrids in their bag verses long irons. Hybrids are more for giving and have a tendency to hit the ball further.
At PGA.com value guide a comparison of long irons and hybrids are made. They conclude that hybrids have three advantages over long irons: club head design, sole design, and shaft and length. These are three pretty important design points and clearly hybrids come out as the winner.
Laird Small, Dir. of the Pebble Beach Golf Academy explains why hybrids are superior to long irons for the average golfer. He talks about making better contact and how the club interacts with the ball. Overall, hybrids are the way to go.
As you can see, hybrids are here to stay. I have replaced my 3-4-5 irons with hybrids and found that I hit the ball further, straighter and with more confidence. It has made a difference of two strokes per round on my overall score. As a single digit handicapper, that is outstanding!
Do you use hybrids? Tell me what a difference it has made in your game. See you on the links. I am a grateful golfer!
The Grateful Golfer 