In this month’s blog, we’re exploring the importance of becoming a great iron player. A crucial aspect of the game that separates the good from great. I will start by highlighting some of the professionals known for their exceptional iron play. Take Jack Nicklaus, for example, whose legendary precision with irons has left a memorable mark on the sport. Phil Rodgers, my longtime mentor, once remarked that Nicklaus hit almost every iron shot to exactly pin high-a testament to his exceptional ball striking and distance control.
Moving to the modern era, we can’t overlook Tiger Woods, widely regarded as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, golfers of all time. According to Mark Broadie’s “Every Shot Counts,” Woods excels in every aspect of the game, but it’s his approach play that truly sets him apart. His ability to consistently place approach shots close to the hole translates to a significant strokes gained advantage of 1.3 per round against his peers.
Similarly, Scottie Scheffler, the current world No. 1, has made an impact with his impressive iron play. Ranked first in greens in regulation (2022-2023 season) and equally impressive statistics in proximity to the hole and strokes gained, Scheffler’s performance underscores the importance of mastering the iron game.
“Broadie further emphasizes that superior performance in these approach shots requires an excellent repeatable swing in order to control the shot distance, direction, trajectory, and ball spin to stop the ball close to the hole from a range of lies in the fairway and rough.”
Now, let’s dive into a technical aspect of iron play: Spin Loft. Spin Loft refers to the difference between angle of attack (the vertical path of the clubhead at impact) and the dynamic loft (the loft the player delivers to the ball) at impact. In the illustration below, the blue arrow is the club’s angle of attack, and the red arrow is the dynamic loft. Understanding this concept is crucial because it directly affects ball compression, trajectory, and ultimately, the distance and control of your shots.
If a player delivers the club with an -8 angle of attack (hitting down on the ball) and 35 degrees of dynamic loft, the Spin Loft will be 43 degrees. Another player that delivers the same club with a -5 angle of attack (a shallower angle of attack) and 24 degrees of dynamic loft, the Spin Loft will be 29 degrees.
The image below on the left indicates an iron swing that produces a higher dynamic loft angle at impact which results in a higher Spin Loft. The hands at impact are located opposite the right leg. The image below on the right indicates an iron swing that produces a lower dynamic loft angle at impact which results in a lower Spin Loft. The hands at impact are located opposite the left leg.
So, how can you improve your Spin Loft and, by extension, your iron play? It starts with the lower body. By focusing on the dynamic movement of your lower body, particularly the shifting and turning of your hips toward the target, you can optimize your Spin Loft. This kinetic energy not only generates power but also helps position your body (shifted and turned toward the target) and club (hands in front of clubhead) for a solid impact. (See photos below from “Swing Like a Pro” book).
Additionally, pay attention to your grip position. A stronger than neutral grip position can help you better control the clubface through impact (when the hands move forward because of the lower body movement the clubface opens), ensuring that it remains square and delivers the optimal dynamic loft for your shot. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in the consistency, accuracy, and trajectory of your iron play.
Notice the shift towards the target with the lower body. Also, the hands are positioned 5 inches ahead of their original set up position at impact. The hips have rotated open at impact. Notice the right heel is off the ground and the daylight between the legs.
In summary, mastering iron play is a combination of technical understanding and physical execution. By learning from the greats of the game, understanding concepts like spin loft, and refining your lower body movement and proper grip, you can elevate your iron game to new heights. So, embrace the challenge, and let’s work together to unlock your full potential on the course. Look forward to seeing you soon!
