How to Hit a Flop Shot from a Buried Lie with Your Lob Wedge
If you find yourself in a buried lie during a round of golf, it can be challenging to figure out how to make the best shot. One particularly difficult situation is when you need to hit a flop shot from a buried lie using your lob wedge. This shot requires a delicate touch and precise execution. Here are a few tips to help you master this shot:
- Assess the Lie: Before attempting a flop shot from a buried lie, take a moment to evaluate the situation. Determine how deep the ball is buried in the grass and whether there are any obstacles that may interfere with the shot.
- Select the Right Club: Using a lob wedge for a flop shot from a buried lie is ideal because of its high loft. The high loft helps the ball get up quickly and stop on the green. Ensure that your lob wedge is in good condition and has sufficient bounce to prevent the club from digging into the ground.
- Open Your Stance: To execute a successful flop shot, open your stance slightly. This will allow you to swing the club more freely and create a steeper angle of attack on the ball.
- Position the Ball: Place the ball slightly ahead of your stance, closer to your lead foot. This will help you strike the ball cleanly and generate the necessary height and spin.
- Accelerate Through Impact: Maintain a smooth and controlled swing, focusing on accelerating through impact. It's crucial to strike the ball cleanly to get the desired height and control.
- Use the Club's Bounce: The bounce of your lob wedge is vital when hitting a flop shot from a buried lie. As you swing, ensure that the club's bounce interacts with the grass behind the ball, allowing the club to slide through the turf rather than digging in.
- Follow-Through: After striking the ball, continue your swing with a full follow-through. This will help you maintain momentum and control the trajectory of the shot.
- Practice: Like any other shot in golf, hitting a flop shot from a buried lie requires practice. Head to the practice area or find a suitable lie in the rough to work on your technique. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with this challenging shot.
Remember, hitting a flop shot from a buried lie with a lob wedge is not easy and may not be the best option in all situations. Evaluate the risks and rewards before attempting this shot. If the lie is too difficult, consider alternative strategies, such as a punch shot or a chip and run.
With patience and practice, you can develop the skills necessary to successfully execute a flop shot from a buried lie with your lob wedge. Incorporate these tips into your practice sessions and on-course play to improve your chances of getting the ball close to the hole in challenging situations. Good luck!