Expert: John Brott - 9/29/2009

Question
Hi John
I have emailed you before and had great feedback which has helped me a lot thankyou.  However, I have recently purchased a 10x10ft driving bay for my backyard which I have been practicing in for a couple of months and I hit the ball (off artificial grass matt) very very well, pure contact 99% of the time and feels great of the club face!  Unfortunately, on the course my handicap is going up and not down and I am constantly thining the ball and have lost confidence so much on the par 3's that I am now playing low bump and runs with my long irons as I cant risk thinning the ball of the tee's?  Have you ever heard of this happening to others? Many Thanks for any advice you may be able to offer.
Matt

Answer
Matt:  I haven't heard of this specifically but am not surprised.  I naturally take a small divot and when I'm forced to hit balls from artificial turf, I sense my swing changing.  This is due to the first time on artificial turf, I came away with sore wrists and hands.  As good as they say A.T. is, it is much harder than real turf and prolonged use will either result in pain in the hands and wrists or a change in the swing.  Taking a divot requires the bottom of the club's arc to be just ahead of the ball.  It's possible you have subconsciously developed the knack for catching the ball at the perfect bottom of the swing.

Personally, I would limit my use of the mat to rescue clubs, fairway metals and your driver.  Practice with your irons from real turf where you won't be reluctant to take a divot.  It shouldn't take long to redevelop the necessary swing.  To help speed up the process, concentrate on striking the front part of the ball.

Good luck Matt,

John