Adjusting to bad lies

A common error amongst golfers is the inability to adjust for the ball sitting in a bad lie.

Most golfers would simply attempt to play the shot they would normally play. Learning to make subtle adjustments for various

situations is a great way to improve your game.

A simple guideline when it comes to bad lies is the worse the lie is the further back in the stance the ball should be played and the more lofted the club should be. The same goes for playing out of the rough.

For instance, if the shot from a bad lie would normally call for a six iron, move the ball about an inch behind the center of the stance and play a seven iron. Moving the ball back in the stance automatically reduces the loft on the club and will cause a lower shot with less back-spin, thereby causing the ball to roll further.

The swing should be shorter and firmer than usual creating a punching effect. The feel of the swing should be that the hands are less active than usual.

Practice this on the driving range and you will find bad lies less of a problem.

Terry Gingell is a PGA Class 'A" Professional. He's now taking students for junior golf, adult group lessons, sports camps and private lessons. For information call Terry, 690-7970.