Tips for Shorter Golfers
Being tall may be a big perk in basketball, but there’s no such thing as being “vertically challenged” in golf.
In fact, shorter players even have a few distinct benefits working in their favor. After all, a lower center of gravity means better balance and stability. Shorter golfers tend to have a more compact swing with less variables. Just look at Tad Fujikawa, a legend at 5’1″, or Ian Woosnam, the ‘Wee Welshman’ who was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. It’s also less common for smaller players to suffer from excessive knee-drive and lower back issues.
No matter how tall you stand, there’s no limitations — it’s all about playing to your advantage, which is why CA’s head golf pro and director of player development, Joan Lovelace, is sharing her top tips!
Lovelace’s tips
While it’s true that taller players can typically hit the ball further with less effort, that also means they have a larger margin of error.
If you’re on the shorter side, you can increase your power by setting up in a way that plays to your strengths. Stand a little further from the ball, with a wide stance (feet typically around shoulder width) to create a wider swing arc.
“To get more clubhead speed, shorter players just need to keep working on technique and muscle. Instead of simply trying to swing harder, I recommend using your wrist cock,” says Lovelace.
A big factor that affects hitting a straight shot is your lie angle. This is the measure of the angle formed between the shaft of the club and the ground when the club head is in a normal playing position. Your lie angle affects the direction of your shots — even on an amazing swing, the wrong lie angle will send your ball to the right or left.
Shorter golfers will benefit from a flatter lie angle, whereas tall players do best with an upright angle. For a player whose smaller in stature, a lie angle that’s too upright will cause the ball to pull to the right (known as a hook).
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Improve your game with CA
Part of the beauty of golf is that it’s just you versus the elements — there’s no 6’5″ opponent to get in your way! Whether you’re on the taller or shorter side, it’s all about making the most of what you’ve got.
CA offers a variety of programs to help you take your game to the next level. Our two clubs, Hobbit’s Glen and Fairway Hills, offer a variety of different lesson programs, as well as private and group lessons. Our PGA- and LPGA-certified professionals are here to provide you with personalized instruction, tailored to meet your specific needs and abilities. Learn more about CA’s golf classes and programs here.
