Teeing the ball low will tend to produce a downward blow rather than a sweep through, thus producing more spin.

Another problem with the wind is club selection. If you find yourself a wedge distance from the green facing a headwind, try punching a 9 iron instead.  Less loft means greater control. Stopping it will be no problem.

        Our final chapter will be about a very important part of the golf game that many people just take for granted – stretching before your game.

STRETCHING FOR GOOD GOLF

        The importance of stretching for your golf game cannot be stressed enough.  Because a good golf swing requires that your body be in a relaxed, tension-free state, you will want to release some of that tension before you ever pick up a golf club.

        The good news is that these stretching exercises are easy and only take a few minutes.  That means you can effectively stretch right before you start your round.

        For the first exercise, take your driver and place it across your shoulders.  Stand with your feet shoulder width apart.  Wrap your arms around the club at either end.  Bend slightly back stretching your back muscles.  Bend side to side so that you loosen up your side muscles and shoulders.  Bend forward to extend your back.

Next, perform a partial squat with your golf club in hand.  Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and place the club in front of you holding with both hands for balance.  Lower your body by bending at the knees, not the hips, and raise the club at the same time.  Raise back up and repeat ten times.  During this whole stretch, you need to keep your upper body very erect.

        This exercise will increase your blood flow and circulation throughout your body.  This is a great total body warm up to allow your body to make a relaxed, comfortable first swing.  It also increases the range of motion in your hip which encourages a more synchronized swing from the ground up.