Often a golf player needs the ball to stop quickly after it lands. Putting backspin on the golf ball is a great way to achieve this result. Using backspin can result in a shot that quickly draws back five to ten feet after landing. Backspin is particularly helpful when hitting a pitch and stop shot over obstacles between you and the green, or when the pin is towards the back of the green with a steep slope behind it.
Putting backspin on a golf ball is considered to be one of the most difficult shots in the sport. It is very helpful to practice this technique on a driving range before trying it out on the golf course. While it is recommended to seek the help of a qualified golf instructor, there are many resources for players wishing to self-teach the backspin technique.
There are three main factors involved in putting backspin on a golf ball: technique, equipment, and conditions. Proper technique is crucial. Begin by playing the ball slightly forward of your stance, just left of your belt buckle. This will help with proper angle of attack. It is important to have loose, relaxed wrists. This results in the club going under the ball, creating more spin. The objective is to "pinch" the ball between the club and the fairway. In order to do this, the ball must be hit cleanly with a steep, descending downswing. The ball also must be hit with adequate speed and force. When finishing the swing, keep your head down until your arm forces it up.
In order to put backspin on a golf ball, equipment is also important. Select a high spin/soft cover ball. This allows the ball to "stick" to the club, and stay in contact with the club longer. The ball should roll up the club face gripping the club's grooves, making the ball spin. A short iron or wedge is the preferred club for this. The wedge has a high loft and a large flange, which keeps it from digging into the turf and creating a large divot.
Finally, proper conditions are very helpful for creating backspin. You must be on the fairway, the greens must be well kept, and the conditions must be fairly dry. If the ball is in the rough or if any dirt or grass clogs the club's grooves, the ball will not spin. It is advisable not to backspin your golf ball on an important game until you have mastered the skill. You will need a lot of practise on it.
