Differences between irons and woods

When you use an iron, your hands pass over in front of the ball before you make contact.

Many golfers enjoy great success using their woods, but have trouble using their irons. For others, it’s the opposite. This is due to the differences existing between the two types of clubs, although the required swing coordination and movement remain the same.

With an iron, the contact with the ball is made at the end of the downswing. When using a wood, the contact is made at the beginning of the upswing, particularly when the ball is on a tee. That’s why right-hand golfers should place the ball to the left when using a wood - that is, next to the foot closest to the target. This allows the club head to pass in front of the hands as soon as it comes into contact with the ball.

When using an iron, one should place the ball a few inches inside the foot closest to the target. Contact with the ball occurs when the hands are slightly ahead of the club’s head. In this case it is normal for the head to touch the ground and take a little bit of the ground with it ("make a divot").

When you use a wood, let the clubhead pass in front of your hands once you make contact with the ball.