Top 3 things beginners need to know about how to get the ball in the air, consistently.

Golf can be a challenging sport, especially for beginners. One of the most frustrating aspects of learning how to play is getting the ball airborne consistently. However, understanding just a few key concepts can significantly improve your game. This blog post will explore the top three things every beginner should know about getting the ball up in the air with confidence.

Hit Down on the Ball, No Scooping Underneath!

Many beginners commonly make the mistake of trying to scoop underneath the ball. This instinct creates an upward swing that often leads to hitting the top of the ball, resulting in a low or misdirected shot.

Instead of lifting the ball, focus on hitting down on it. This technique encourages a proper swing, where you strike the ball first and take a divot afterward. A divot is the piece of grass you remove when you strike the ground after the ball, confirming that you are making solid contact.

Research shows that golfers who adopt this method often see a 20% increase in their average shot height. So, when you change your mindset and emphasize hitting down instead of scooping, you’ll likely notice an improvement in how high and consistently you can get the ball airborne.

A golf club striking the ball on a tee, demonstrating correct impact for elevation.

Ball Position Matters

Another crucial factor in hitting the ball consistently is the position of the ball in your stance. Placing the ball too far forward, especially with your mid to low irons (pitching wedge to 7-iron), can lead to catching the ball on the upswing.

When you hit the ball on the upswing, it disrupts the optimal trajectory for getting it airborne. Typically, this leads to either lower ball flights or frustrating topped shots.

For better shots, position the ball close to the center of your stance for shorter irons. For longer clubs, slightly move it forward without going excessively forward with mid to low irons. Proper positioning will ensure that you hit down through the ball consistently, which promotes a higher trajectory.

By making this adjustment, many golfers report experiencing up to a 30% increase in their ball flight percentage when hitting with their irons.

7 iron should be closer to center

Body Rotation and Finding Your Center Point

The last piece of the puzzle is focusing on your body rotation and maintaining your center

point during your swing. Many beginners unintentionally shift their heads or shift their bodies away from the ball, which makes it hard to connect effectively.

To evaluate your swing mechanics effectively, record yourself from a face-on camera angle. This allows you to view how much your head moves relative to the ball. Any excessive movement—whether upward, downward, or sideways—can lead to hitting inconsistent shots.

To improve this aspect, work on body rotation without excessive lateral movement. Aim to keep your trunk stable while allowing your arms to swing freely. Engage in drills like the criss-cross drill, which encourages you to rotate your body while keeping your head steady. These drills will help you return to the same point on the ground for each swing, resulting in more reliable strikes. Watch these drills here: HALF SWINGS ONLY!

Rotation Drill (Part 1)

Beginners who focus on this often see their hit consistency improve by about 70%, leading to greater distance and elevation on their shots.

Rotation Drill (Part 2)

Final Thoughts on Elevating Your Game

As a beginner golfer, mastering the art of getting the ball airborne can feel daunting. However, by focusing on these three fundamental techniques—hitting down on the ball, positioning the ball correctly, and prioritizing body rotation—you can make significant strides in your game.

Practicing these skills will not only enhance your performance but also bolster your confidence on the course. Remember, every golfer started as a beginner, and with the right approach and dedication, you too can elevate your game.

So grab your clubs, hit the driving range, and start applying these strategies. You'll be amazed at how high and consistently you can get that golf ball in the air!

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!