Achieving a descending blow with the longest club in the bag involves striking the ball first, then the ground. This technique contrasts with scooping or lifting, where the clubhead bottoms out before impact. A proper descending strike can be visualized by imagining the clubhead moving along a shallow, downward angle through the impact zone. For instance, practicing with a tee slightly ahead of the ball in the stance can encourage the desired angle of attack.
This impact condition promotes optimal launch and spin characteristics for maximized distance. By compressing the ball against the clubface with a descending blow, players generate increased energy transfer and a lower launch angle, leading to greater roll. Historically, many prominent professionals have employed this technique to gain a significant advantage. This approach has become increasingly relevant with modern equipment and course conditions, which prioritize lower spin rates for optimal performance.
