You slice. Even if you call it a “push cut,” it’s not optimal. The goal: Iron shots that fly off the clubface in the exact direction you want the ball to go.
What I’ve noticed over the years is that most struggling iron players are overly concerned with body turn. Body turn is important but not when it comes at the expense of getting your hands and arms involved. Ignoring these body parts almost always results in holding on too long after impact. Great iron players release their hands and the club post-impact with authority.
To learn how they do it, grab any iron and set up to the ball with your feet close together. This narrow stance will curb you from using too much body action. Make your backswing and focus on moving only your arms as you swing through the ball and into your finish.
You’ve done it correctly if, after impact, your hands have released with the shaft pointing more toward the ground than behind you (a classic hold position).
David Woods is a GOLF Top 100 Teacher and PGA Tour instructor. For more, visit prosendrgolf.com.