How to Set Up Iron Shots for Weight Distribution

Iron shots in golf are all about accuracy. Irons are the clubs you use off the tee if you absolutely must hit the fairway and the clubs you use when approaching the green so as to get as close as possible to the hole. But the proper irons mean nothing if not paired with the proper swing mechanics and weight distribution. A steady and even stance will create the correct weight distribution and though all the irons are different lengths and loft, these features will only dictate where you place the ball in your stance and how far from it you will stand. Your stance should be identical for each iron.

Things You'll Need

  • Golf irons
  • Golf ball
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Instructions

    • 1

      Address the ball with both of your feet just outside shoulder length. The wider you can comfortably make your stance, the better, as a wide base creates a firm balance in a swing. Do not favor either side when addressing the ball, but rather have an equal weight distribution in both feet (50/50 ratio).

    • 2

      Position your stance so the ball is in the proper placement. The longer the iron, the further forward the ball should be in your stance. Position the ball towards your back foot when hitting a wedge, 9- or 8-iron, position it in the center of your stance when hitting a 7- or 6-iron, and toward your front foot if hitting a 5-, 4-, 3-iron or lower.

    • 3

      Take the club into a backswing over your dominant shoulder and begin to transfer your weight into your back foot (60/40 or 70/30 ratio). Your back foot should feel like it is twisting or torquing as though screwing your back heel into the ground. Please note, however, that your foot should not move at all, but should just feel like it is moving.

    • 4

      Twist your hips in your backswing, but do not slide them. Sliding will throw your balance and out of whack, while twisting will ensure the proper distribution throughout. Also, both your feet should still be firmly planted at the apex of your backswing.

    • 5

      Twist your hips back towards the ball on your downswing and begin torquing your back heel. The motion will naturally shift your weight to your front foot. with the proper lag angle. Your weight distribution ratio should be 40/60 at impact, favoring your front foot.

    • 6

      Follow through the ball and continue twisting and transferring your weight. As you follow through, your back foot should raise off the ground and at finish your weight distribution ratio should be at least 20/80, favoring your front foot.