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Tuesday, 13 September 2005, 16:15 GMT 17:15 UK

Hit a ball below your feet

Below feet

This is one of the hardest shots to play well.

When playing a ball below your feet there's a real danger of thinning the ball.

But these simple alterations to your stance and set up will compensate for the awkward lie.

STEP ONE

Below feet

Aim your club and body to the left of the target.

Grip the club as near to the end as possible so you use its full length.

Bend your knees and tilt your upper body downwards more than normal.

This will help you get down to the level of the ball.

Keep your weight on your heels - this will stop you toppling forwards down the slope.

STEP TWO

Below feet

Concentrate on taking the club back with the line of the hill.

As you do, it will be very easy to let your head lift up - it's vital you don't allow it.

The most important thing with this shot is to keep the head at the same distance from the ball as it was when you addressed it.

If you do that, you won't top the ball.

STEP THREE

Below feet

Make sure you keep your knees bent throughout the shot - the natural tendency is to rise up during the swing which will make you top the ball.

Stay down on the shot as long as possible.

STEP FOUR

Below feet

Keeping you knees and head artificially down through the shot will mean a slightly awkward follow through.

The lower the ball, the more your follow through may be cut short as you won't be able to turn as much as normal.




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UK Golf Guide
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