If you're looking to add a consistent fade to your long iron shots in golf, there are a few key factors you should focus on. By understanding and implementing these techniques, you'll be on your way to hitting controlled and precise shots that curve gently to the right (for right-handed golfers).

Setup:

• Address the ball slightly open to your target line. This means your feet, hips, and shoulders should be aligned slightly left of the target.
• Shift your weight slightly towards your front foot. This helps promote an out-to-in swing path, which is essential for hitting a fade.
• Position the ball slightly forward in your stance, closer to your left foot. This encourages a steeper angle of attack, resulting in higher trajectory and more spin.

Grip:

• Hold the club with a slightly stronger grip – rotate your hands slightly to the right (for right-handed golfers). This helps prevent the clubface from closing too early, producing a more open clubface at impact.

Takeaway and Backswing:

• During the takeaway, focus on keeping your hands and arms passive. Allow the clubhead to move to the inside naturally, but avoid excessive rotation of the hands.
• In the backswing, try to maintain a smooth and gradual turn, avoiding any excessive movements. This helps create the right swing plane for a fade.

Downswing:

• As you start your downswing, initiate the movement from your lower body – by using your hips and legs. This promotes an inside-to-out swing path.
• Keep your hands slightly ahead of the clubhead at impact, ensuring the clubface is open relative to the swing path.
• Try to apply a little extra pressure with your left hand (right-handed golfers) as you approach and strike the ball. This promotes a controlled release, preventing the clubface from closing too much.

Follow-through:

• Allow your body to rotate naturally towards the target as you complete your swing. This helps maintain the fade shape and prevents the clubface from closing too soon.
• Finish with a balanced and relaxed posture, with your weight fully transferred to your front foot.

Practice:

• Consistently hitting a fade with your long irons requires practice and repetition. Spend time on the driving range working on the specific techniques mentioned above.
• Record your swing and analyze it to identify any areas where you can improve.
• Experiment with different ball positions and grip strengths to find the combination that works best for you.

Remember, hitting a consistent fade with long irons takes time and patience. Focus on implementing these techniques into your swing, and with practice, you'll be able to control your shots and add versatility to your game.