Like most golfers, you’ll have your share of difficult short game shots with impossible stances. Your ball may be on the wrong side of a tree or too close to a fence or hedge. Or, the ball my be higher than normal, say waist high or even higher, which can happen when you’re in a bunker and the ball is out of it. You could try hitting this shot opposite-handed. But if the pin is inside 30 yards, you have an alternative: the backward swing
Below are six keys to the shot:
1. Turn your back to the pin
2. Stand as close to the ball as comfortable
3. Position the ball in front of your toes
4. Place your left hand on your right shoulder
5. Make a swing that’s twice as long
6. Keep the right shoulder still
The stance with this shot is important, but the swing is just as important. Use a simple, wrist-free motion to hit the ball.
Stand next to the ball with your back to the pin. If you’re right-handed, the ball should be on your right side. Get as close to the ball as you’re comfortable doing, but make sure the ball is positioned about even with your toes.
Place your left-hand on your right shoulder. This will remind you to keep the right shoulder in place throughout the swing.
Make a swing that’s twice the length of your normal swing for the same distance. You need a longer swing because there’s no wrist cock. Keep the right shoulder still and your eyes focused on the ball, so you don’t swing and miss.
Practice this swing to get the feel for it. After a while, you’ll get good at it. If the ball is more than 30 yards out or you have a bad lie, try swinging left-handed using the backside of your 3-iron or your putter. Either club will give you the necessary distance.
