Tip From the Archives

The Woods

Problem

Your ball landed in the woods. To make matters worse, you noticed that the ball is surrounded by the roots of a tree.

Cure

You need to be prepared to hit out of the woods ahead of time by practicing hitting cuts, low hooks, buried lies, high lobs or flop shots. For this shot, you should take a steep swing and gain as much loft as possible. Remember, an unplayable lie penalty would be the ideal choice when there is any risk to hurting yourself or damaging your club.

Therapy

If you can safely swing your club, choke down on the grip and open the clubface. Make a steep swing and remember that you will need to limit your follow through due to how close the roots are to your ball. Be sure that you hit down hard onto the ball to help it fly up and out of the roots. If you are near the tree trunk, you might not be able to turn your body very much or make a full backswing. You will be forced to allow your trailing hand to control the shot so you can produce as much power as possible.

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