In the event the ball is lying on a downhill lie, it can be helpful to avoid playing the ball directly opposite the left heel. Instead, take a stance where the ball is positioned opposite a point that is nearer the center of the body.

When you play the ball back you will create an automatic technique of contracting the ball on the downswing. This will force the ball to climb more in its flight.

Interestingly, the same method can be used during hill lies. The reason for this is that from this position it is difficult to re-shift the weight back to the left foot.

Special Trouble Spots

A wide variety of trouble shots can all quite easily and capably be handled with one simple remedy. As we previously discussed, the ball should be played at a point that is opposite the inside part of the left heel in all shots.

You may recall that the reason for this is that on the backswing the weight would be shifted to the right foot. In order for the player to make the downswing and the follow through; however, the weight would need to be shifted to the left foot. When impact occurs the weight is on the left foot and as a result the swing will center opposite from that point.

When playing difficult shots; however, it is necessary to actually lower the contact point. You can accomplish this by moving the ball back somewhat. You will then be playing at a point that is opposite the right heel as the situation calls for it. To put it another way, the deeper the ball is implanted, the further back the opposite right heel must be positioned; with the club resting in a somewhat closed position.

As a result, of course, the further back it is played the more lofted the club must be. This is the only time when there is an exception to the standard rule that the ball must be played opposite the left heel.

When you find yourself in such a trouble spot, play nearer the right foot and you will be surprised by how easy it will be to achieve a swing that will motivate the ball out of deep grass or even out of a cuppy lie.