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Breaking 100/90/80/70

Master the impact zone

By Bobby Clampett with Ron Kaspriske
Photo By Dom Furore

The swing of the average PGA Tour player bottoms out four inches in front of the ball. The average swing bottom of a high-handicapper is an inch or so behind the ball. Considering the difference, it's no wonder there are so many golfers who can't meet their scoring goals.

I wouldn't even want to play if I couldn't hit the ball solidly. I believe a high-handicap golfer would reduce his or her average score by four strokes for every forward inch of improvement made on the swing bottom. In other words, if you want to break a scoring barrier, focus on improving your club's position through the impact zone. This also applies to the short game.

Breaking 100: If you're trying to break 100, I can't stress enough the importance of hitting crisp, accurate chip shots. It's the ultimate stroke saver.

Breaking 90: To shoot in the 80s, you not only need a good short game, but you need to hit full shots with authority.

Breaking 80: I recommend that you give this practice drill a try. It will take some time to get used to, but it's a great drill for a golfer trying to break 80.

Breaking 70: To improve impact and straighten your shots, use this intermediate-target drill Jack Nicklaus used.

About the author: A golf analyst for CBS Sports and TBS, Clampett played the PGA Tour from 1980-'95, winning the 1982 Southern Open. His new book, The Impact Zone, was released in April.