Date Published: 05/06/2024
Achieving backspin on a golf ball can drastically improve your control and precision, especially on the greens. This technique allows the ball to stop quickly or even roll back after landing, giving you the upper hand in positioning your shots.
Whether you’re a beginner golfer or you’re looking to refine your technique, putting backspin on your ball can improve your game and lower your handicap.
Backspin occurs when the golf ball spins backwards immediately after being struck. This happens when the golf ball is hit with a lofted clubface on a descending path. The combination of a downward strike and the loft of the club causes the ball to compress and roll up the clubface, generating spin.
1. Choose the right wedges
Using wedges with higher lofts, such as pitching, sand, or lob wedges, is essential for creating backspin. These clubs are designed to produce more spin, especially when the grooves are clean and sharp. Regularly clean your clubface and replace wedges as needed to maintain optimal spin.
2. Opt for spin-friendly golf balls
Not all golf balls are created equal when it comes to generating spin. Premium golf balls with softer covers, particularly those made from urethane, are more effective at producing backspin compared to harder, less expensive balls.
3. Set up for success
Position the ball slightly back in your stance and open your stance slightly. This setup promotes a steeper angle of attack. Ensure your weight is more on your front foot, and your hands are ahead of the ball at address to encourage a downward strike.
4. Execute a downward strike
Hitting down on the ball is crucial for creating backspin. Focus on striking the ball first and then the turf, making a crisp divot just past where the ball was. This downward motion compresses the ball, allowing it to roll up the clubface and generate spin.
5. Maintain acceleration
A smooth, accelerating swing through impact is key. Avoid decelerating or flipping your wrists at impact, as these can diminish the spin. A controlled, accelerating follow-through helps maximise backspin.
1. The towel drill
Place a towel a few inches behind the ball to practice hitting the ball without touching the towel. This drill helps you get used to making a descending strike.
2. The tee drill
Set a tee just outside your lead foot and practice brushing the ground with your club after striking the ball. This drill encourages a downward angle of attack.
3. Focused range practice
Spend time at the range hitting wedge shots to create backspin. Observe the ball’s behaviour upon landing and adjust your technique accordingly.
Mastering backspin can transform your short game, providing you with the precision and control needed to lower your scores and improve your handicap.
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