How To Hit The Long Irons In Golf Like A Tiger

Hello Golfer

Most golfers believe that hitting the long irons is probably the hardest shot to play in a sport that is already difficult. The first problem is that many golfers have unrealistic expectations. They watch people like Tiger Woods, Ernie Els and Phil Mickelson hit these high, consistent and towering 3 or 4 irons. Then they play theirs or should I say....they hit theirs with a dismal result and wonder why they don’t get that same elevation.

The simple problem is that due to such a shallow angle on the clubface compared to a wedge one needs a large amount of club head speed to keep the ball continuing on its trajectory and get it up high. There is nothing wrong with aspiring to play like the world’s greatest players, however, my advice is for most budding golfers to have a realistic expectation and play their game that way.

Hitting Long Irons

To start with, some golfers suggest that young golfers and mid handicap golfers should where possible avoid hitting long irons in golf at all and take the 3 and 4 iron out of the bag. They should carry the fairway woods which have a lower centre of gravity and are a lot easier to get into the air. By so doing, they will build their confidence and ability until they can go on to the long iron hitting.

This approach notwithstanding, there could be times when you will prefer to hit a long iron shot for a particular situation. Thus, hitting long irons will be an advantage to have in your bag. For example, when you are playing an approach to the green and there is a strong presence of a cross wind, or there is the threat of overhanging branches, then it would be wrong to take a high airy shot. It is much advisable to keep your golf ball low.

Effective Steps for Hitting Long Irons in Golf

Step 1. Set the ball up nearer to the middle of your stance. This is unlike when using the driver. This way, you will be able to produce a more consistent strike hitting the ball in the middle of the club face. Unfortunately, most players put the ball further forward in their stance because of the length of shaft. This only allows for a very minor sweet spot.

Step 2. The game of golf is played mentally. Mentally, you know that the green is at a particular distance away. Then you unconsciously attempt to hit the ball harder to get to the green and that’s when you get out of rhythm. Then all sorts of results appear. You get a bunker, rough etc. Now prepare yourself mentally and endeavour to tell yourself to hit every shot like a 7 iron, and you will naturally swing smoother letting the angle of the club face do the work for you.

Step 3. In hitting the long irons, try to make a full follow through. I learnt that Tiger Wood’s follow through is as long as his back swing. This will make you sweep through the ball and continue club head speed without topping the ball a short distance down the fairway.

Happy Golfing

Chijioke Onwunle

P.S. - Get a good golf instructor and read good golf books. You can't teach yourself golf. Read and practice what you have read under your tutor.Knowledge is power