Ernie Els & Michelle Wie side by side

Ball Position

Just as important as a proper alignment is having proper ball position. If you had a perfect swing but played the ball in the wrong spot you'll never hit it too well. Begin with your 7-iron. The 7 is the club that you'll have the ball in the direct center of your stance. Next time, and every time you're on the range, make a habit of laying two clubs down in a crossed position (see photo). This will let you tee your ball off the end of the grip and can clearly show you where the ball is in relation to your feet.

When changing clubs you'll move the ball position a ½ inch per club. Why a ½"? Because each club gets a ½ inch longer or shorter than another. A 6-iron is a ½" longer than a 7 for example and the 5 is a ½" longer that a 6 and so forth. An 8 is a 1/2" shorter than a 7. Move the longer irons the ½ forward in your stance, towards the target and the higher number back in your stance. A 5-iron will be an inch forward of center and so forth. Some golfers play all their clubs having the ball in the same position and that's impossible if you ask me. The clubs are different lengths so they're not going to hit the ground at the same point.