Few sounds in golf are sweeter than the crisp click of a perfectly struck iron shot. But for many players, hitting irons cleanly off the turf is a constant struggle — often resulting in fat shots, thin strikes, or a frustrating mix of both.
At Keele Golf Centre, our PGA-qualified coaches help golfers across Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire master their iron play through sound fundamentals, proper sequencing, and simple, effective drills.
🧭 Step 1: Ball Position and Setup
Ball position is crucial. For short irons, position the ball in the centre of your stance. For mid to long irons, move it slightly forward — never ahead of your lead heel.
Keep your weight slightly favouring your lead foot to encourage a downward strike through the ball.
🏌️♂️ Step 2: Compress the Ball
To hit irons cleanly, you must strike the ball before the turf. Think of “compressing” the ball — trapping it against the ground with a descending blow. Your divot should start after the ball, not before it.
A simple checkpoint: after impact, your hands should be slightly ahead of the clubhead.
⚙️ Step 3: Stay Centred
Fat and thin shots often come from swaying during the swing. Keep your head stable and rotate around your spine rather than shifting side to side. This helps control the low point of your swing for consistent contact.
🎯 Step 4: Build Confidence Through Practice
Practise with a purpose. Try hitting half-swings to feel solid contact before building up to full shots. Our PGA coaches use video feedback and launch monitor data to help you see how small setup changes produce huge improvements in strike quality.
📍 Take Your Iron Play to the Next Level
Whether you’re a weekend golfer or improving your competitive game, learning to hit your irons cleanly makes golf far more enjoyable.
👉 Book your golf lesson today: https://keelegolfcentre.co.uk/pages/coaching
📍 Keele Golf Centre – Helping Golfers Strike It Pure, Every Time