How to Play Golf in the Wind

One of the most challenging aspects of golf is playing the golf course and the weather at the same time. Playing in the wind drastically increases the difficulty inherent in golf because it increases the reaction of the ball with the air. A slight fade or draw can turn into a banana slice or monster hook because of the wind.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Check the direction the wind is blowing for each shot before you do anything else. Don't judge the wind by what you feel on your body alone. You can look at the tops of trees or the flag to judge the direction of the wind.

2. Adjust your target according to the wind if you have a crosswind. With the wind directly in front of you or behind you, don't adjust your aim.

3. Tee the ball down an extra 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Play the ball in the same position as normal.

4. Widen your stance a little to provide greater stability if the wind is blowing hard.

5. Use your normal swing on the tee box. If you try to hit the ball harder or tense up, you will create a bad swing on top of the wind conditions you are battling.

6. Adjust the iron you're using according to the wind conditions. You will need more or less club, depending on the wind and your preferred shot shape. If you are in a crosswind, the wind can carry the ball farther if your shot shape matches the direction the wind is blowing.

7. Learn to use a knockdown shot with your irons. Position the ball 1 to 2 inches back in your stance. Swing the club back three fourths of the way and through to three fourths on the finish. You will need to add two clubs for the knockdown shot.

8. Play the wind even on short-chip shots. The ball will stop better on the green when chipping into the wind.

9. Spread your feet wider apart on the putting surface to stabilize your putting stroke when you play in strong winds.

Tips & Warnings

• As a general rule, for every 10 mph of wind, change one full club. If hitting into the wind, you would need a five iron instead of the normal six iron in a 10 mph wind. Use a four iron instead of the six iron for a 20 mph wind.
• With the wind at your back, try gripping down 1/2 inch or more on your normal club choice instead of changing clubs.
• Practice the knockdown shot on the driving range if you live in a windy area.

Who Can Help:

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!