How to Swing a 3 Iron

The 3-iron is one of the most common clubs in the bags of golfers. Golfers using this long iron can to hit off the tee or from the fairway or rough. With a regular swing, most people can hit their 3-iron about 200 yards. Some golfers can hit them much farther, though. Swinging your 3-iron properly will help to ensure the ball travels to the spot you're targeting.

Instructions

    • 1

      Address the golf ball. The ball should between your shoes a comfortable distance away. Keep in mind a 3-iron is the longest iron in most standard club sets, so you will need to stand farther away from the ball than if you were hitting a shorter iron.

    • 2

      Grip the club loosely near the top of the grip. Place the club head behind the ball and allow the sole of the club head to find its natural position on the ground. Because a 3-iron has a low degree of loft, the club face should be nearly vertical.

    • 3

      Bend your knees slightly as you address the ball and aim your leading shoulder at the spot you want the ball to hit. Three-irons are especially effective for long approach shots to the green, so aim your shoulder at the pin or at a spot on the green where you want the ball to land.

    • 4

      Make a full swing with the 3-iron. Bring the club head back so it moves past your back and over your leading shoulder and then bring it down and drive through the ball. The bottom of the club should make minimal contact with the ground. Continue the swing after you hit the ball, bringing the club over your leading shoulder and across your back.