efore we begin, let's first comment on the obvious. We know the club length and ball distance will vary according to the club we use. We also know the ball position will move forward and back in our stance depending on the club. However, there are two very subtle differences which most golfers overlook when addressing the ball.
     Now before we get into the differences, let's see what doesn't change. Looking at the three illustrations to the right we can see the golfer's stance and spine angle remain relatively the same no matter which club is used. This holds true for all our golf clubs--from our driver down to our lowest wedge. And if we try to keep our stance and posture the same with every club, our shots will become more consistent and our accuracy will improve.
     As for the differences, let's again examine the illustrations. Notice how the golfer's neck and wrist angles change as the club length shortens. These are the only differences that should occur at address. It is important to note that these changes occur naturally. We don't have to force or think about these differences. Our neck and wrist angles change as the club length shortens and the ball draws nearer to our bodies.
     Our neck angle changes because our eyes direct our head to the ball position while our wrist angles change because our swing plane steepens as the club length shortens. And conversely, our swing plane flattens as the club length increases.

     So remember when setting up to the ball, no matter which club is in your hand, try to use the same stance and spine angle, while letting your neck and wrists change naturally. Try this tip, and let us know how it works out for you. Until next month, take care and keep it in the short stuff.

Hiro Fujii Tama Hills Golf Course Senior PGA of Japan Instructor

We at Tama Hills Golf Course hope this golf tip will help reduce any confusion you may have about the different clubs in your golf bag. We also hope all of our tips will prove invaluable to you and your golf game. We welcome your suggestions and comments in hopes to better serve you.