golf swing

Question
I am not sure if this is a question for you however I will ask anyway. I normally hit my 5 wood about 185 yds. I have found that on an uphill lie that I easily get up to 225yds. I guess this comes from staying behind the ball better. what can I do to hit my fairway woods like that on a consistent basis.  thank you for any help.

Answer
Hi Joe,

I understand your question but my answer is going to be more of a guess than a clear solution for you.  Without seeing you and knowing more about your swing and your game, it's just hard to know.

Yes...staying behind the ball is important and you definitely get more power into a shot when you do versus when you don't.  You are also launching the ball higher into the air from that uphill lie so you're getting more "air time" on those occasions.  If there is little wind or it is with you, that could also account for some of your yardage gain.

Again, not knowing your age or ability...a 5 wood going 185 seems a little short but 225 is a lot.  I hit my 5 wood about 205-210.

The longer the club the more your head should be behind the ball at impact.  For example, at address, a driver is played off the heel of your forward foot and your spine should be slightly tilted away from the target.  As you descend through the bag the ball position might move little by little toward the middle of your stance.  Your spine angle (away from the target) doesn't change, however.  Your spine should be tilted just enough for your trailing hand to grip the club under your leading hand.  That little difference in where your hands grip the club accounts for the need to tilt your spine away from the target.  Now...during the backswing and downswing... maintain your head position.  That will guarantee that you stay behind the ball at impact.

I hope I've helped you even if it's just confirming what you already thought.  

Good luck!

Paul Dolman
PGA Golf Professional