Golf is an outdoor sport and therefore exposed to the weather. Sometimes the weather can be our ally, but at other times it can be our enemy. One of the most influential factors in the game is the wind, which can alter both the trajectory of the ball and our concentration.
However, playing golf on a windy day doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a few adjustments to our technique and strategy, we can use the wind to our advantage and enjoy a good game. Playing in the wind also has its benefits, helping us to improve our swing, our creativity, and our confidence. In this article, we will give you some tips for playing golf on windy days, so take note.
Tips for playing golf on windy days
Adapt your choice of club
The wind can make the ball fly more or less, depending on whether you are upwind or downwind. It is therefore critical to pick the right club for each situation. As a general rule, use one club less than usual when the wind is blowing downwind and one club more than usual when the wind is blowing against you. This will give you more control over the height and distance of the ball.
Reduce ball spin
The wind can also alter the spin of the ball, causing it to veer more than expected. To avoid this, try to hit the ball with the centre of the clubface without using too much force. A good trick is to add another club and take a soft and controlled swing, known as a punch shot. This will reduce the spin of the ball and keep it lower and more stable.
Use the wind to your advantage
The wind is not always an obstacle, it can be an advantage if you know how to use it. For example, if the wind is blowing from left to right, you can play the ball to the left and let the wind carry it towards the target. The same applies if the wind is blowing from right to left. Of course, you have to be aware of the possible obstacles and hazards on the course and always play it safe.
Modify your posture and grip
Wind can also influence your balance and feel in the club. Adjust your stance and grip to the wind conditions. When the wind is blowing against you, your stance should slow down the ball a little, put more weight on your front leg and grip the club a little tighter. If the wind is blowing downwind, you should bring the ball forward a little, distribute your weight evenly and relax your grip a little.
Don’t forget the putt
The wind can also affect the putt, especially if it is strong and gusty. In this case, you must consider the direction and strength of the wind and adjust the power and line of your putt. When putting upwind, you should hit the ball with less force and aim closer to the hole. When putting downwind, you should hit the ball harder and aim further away from the hole. In both cases, it is better to use gentle strokes than aggressive strokes.
Benefits of playing golf on windy days
Playing golf on a windy day can be a challenge, but also an opportunity to improve your game and have fun. Here are some of the benefits of playing in windy conditions:
- Improve your swing: The wind forces you to be more precise and better control the impact and flight of the ball. By practising different types of strokes, such as punch, draw or fade, you will improve your technique and consistency.
- Stimulate your creativity: The wind makes you think more and look for solutions to every situation. By varying your club choice, stance, grip and strategy, you will develop your creativity and ability to adapt.
- Build your confidence: The wind will test you and push you out of your comfort zone. By overcoming the obstacles and challenges the wind presents, you will increase your confidence and self-esteem.
Come and test yourself at Vall d’Or Golf
If you want to put these tips into practice and enjoy the benefits of playing golf on windy days, we invite you to visit the golf course of Vall d’Or Golf, located on the east coast of Mallorca, just a stone’s throw from the beautiful cove of Portocolom.
Ours is an 18-hole course, par 71, with a design that adapts to all levels of play. In addition, it combines two different landscapes: the first nine holes run between pine, olive and almond trees, while the second nine holes offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Do not hesitate and come and play golf at Vall d’Or Golf, book your tee time and live a great experience!
