[Choi Myeongho Quick Lesson] 7. Slope Shot "Keep Your Body at the Same Angle"

Shoulder and Knee Aligned with Slope, Focused on Precise Impact, Targeting Along the Lie

On slopes such as uphill (left) and downhill, the body is set up by adjusting to the same angle.

[Asia Economy Kim Hyunjun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "Align your body with the slope."

The biggest difference between a driving range and the course is the lie of the ball. On the course, especially, you often have to make shots on various slopes. This is why amateur golfers struggle even with aiming at the target. This week’s introduces ways to overcome various slopes such as uphill, downhill, ball above the feet, and ball below the feet. The key is to adjust your body to the same angle as the slope.

First, let’s look at uphill and downhill shots. Take a look at Korean Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) star rookie Oh Kyungeun (20, PNS) in . The spine angle changes according to the slope to make precise contact with the ball. Not only the shoulders but also the knee angles must match the slope. Uphill shots tend to hook. Aim to the left of the pin. Considering that the loft increases and distance decreases, choose a club with some extra length.

Downhill shots are a bit more difficult. This is because your body instinctively tends to straighten up during contact. It is important to maintain the 'knee height' throughout the swing. The trajectory lowers, increasing distance, but the ball tends to slice. Use the same club but grip it shorter and swing three-quarters. If there is a lot of distance left, rather than making a risky choice like a fairway wood, focus on escaping first and placing the ball in a good position for the next shot.

KLPGA Tour top rookie Oh Kyung-eun's address according to the side slope, including uphill at the toes (left) and downhill.

Side slopes such as ball above the feet and ball below the feet are actually trouble shots. See . For ball above the feet, the ball is closer, so the upper body is slightly more upright, while for ball below the feet, additional adjustment is made by bending the body more. The waist angle remains the same. This prevents the swing path from changing during the swing. It helps to identify the lowest point of your swing, where the club hits the ground, through several practice swings.

Ball below the feet is the most challenging. The body angle set up initially tends to wobble, causing various mishits like topping or shanking. First, widen your stance to stabilize your lower body, then focus on impact. Slightly raising your chin helps prevent the upper body from collapsing. Nowadays, even driving ranges allow mat adjustments. Knowing how the ball curves depending on the slope can be a key factor in maintaining your score in real play.

▲ Instructor = Pro Choi Myungho

▲ Demonstration = Pro Oh Kyungeun

▲ Location = Yangyang Seolhaewon Golden Beach

▲ Organized by = Kim Hyunjun, Golf Specialist Reporter golfkim@asiae.co.kr

▲ Photo = Reporter Yoon Dongju doso7@asiae.co.kr