3. SLOPE UNDER THE BALL

Introduction

The slope of the ground changes how your body lines up to the ball and how the club moves through impact. These small changes affect your strike, the direction the ball starts, and how far it travels. Understanding each slope makes it easier to adjust and hit more predictable shots.

1. Ball Above the Feet

What It Means

  • The ball is closer to you because the ground slopes upward.
  • You feel like the club sits more β€œaround” your body.

Effect on Direction

  • Ball tends to start left, and curve left for right-handed players.
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Simple Point

Ball above feet = ball goes left

2. Ball Below the Feet

What It Means

  • The ball is farther away from you.
  • You feel like you need to reach down more.

Effect on Direction

  • Ball tends to start right and curve right for right-handed players.
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Simple Point

Ball below feet = ball goes right

3. Uphill Lie

What It Means

  • Your lead foot (left foot for right-handers) is higher.
  • Your body tilts back with the slope.

Effect on Distance

  • Shorter because the ball launches higher with more loft.
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Simple Point

Uphill = higher shot, and travels shorter.

4. Downhill Lie

What It Means

  • Your trail foot (right foot for right-handers) is higher.
  • Your body tilts forward with the slope.

Effect on Distance

  • Usually longer and lower because the slope reduces loft.
  • But poor contact can make it shorterβ€”so it varies.
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Simple Point

Downhill = lower shot, can go longer if struck well.

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Final Simple Rule

Ball above feet β†’ ball goes left.
Ball below feet β†’ ball goes right.
Uphill β†’ higher and shorter.
Downhill β†’ lower and potentially longer.
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