Reducing Scores in Spring: "Increasing the Success Rate of Shots"

Warming Up 'First', Stretching and Practice Green Check, Effective 'Three-Quarter' Swing and Running Approach, Compliance with COVID-19 Prevention Guidelines

Spring rounds require sufficient stretching and checking the practice green.

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "A solid hit is necessary."

This is the 'royal road' to lowering your score in actual play. Players focus on accuracy by using a 3-wood or 2-iron instead of a driver from the tee shot. Amateur golfers should also rely on shots with a higher success rate. At this time of year, the course conditions are especially poor. The fairways are full of divots, and near the greens, there is a lot of sand. Wind, yellow dust from China, and this year, even COVID-19, pose hidden challenges everywhere. These are tips for a happy spring round.

First, focus on keeping warm. The temperature difference between day and night is still large, and the wind makes it feel even colder. Layering thin clothes is perfect?you can take them off if you get hot. Masks, sunscreen, and windbreakers should be pre-packed in the golf bag. Arrive early to allow plenty of time. This is for sufficient stretching and checking the practice green. Aeration work is underway during this period. The green speed varies from golf course to golf course.

At least for the first few holes, warm up by walking. On the fairway, carefully check the ball's lie. Divots or bare ground can lead to mishits like topping or hitting behind the ball. This is why the hybrid club plays a big role. Gripping slightly lower and using a 'three-quarter' swing to tap the ball can cover most distances. Iron shots are punch shots with the ball positioned slightly to the right. In bunkers and roughs, safely escape first and plan the next shot.

When the wind is strong, it is important to build a solid lower body and maintain your usual swing rhythm. At address, the body tends to stiffen, and instinctively, you try to use powerful force. However, you can never beat the wind with strength alone. If there is a strong headwind at the 7-iron distance, you need the imagination to use a 6-iron, 5-iron, or hybrid. For the short game, a 'running approach' that rolls the ball with a pitching wedge is effective.

Beginners and intermediate players can be severely punished by so-called 'skimming shots' with wedges of 56 degrees or more. If you are on the fringe, 'wedge putting' is also a good option. Set up as if putting and strike the center of the ball with the wedge face. The 'Texas wedge shot,' which uses a putter instead of a wedge, is also cost-effective. Throughout the round, COVID-19 prevention rules are essential. After bunker shots, flatten the sand with your foot instead of the rake, and do not remove the pin on the green.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.