Im a short guy, so what...

Question
Hi Eddie,
I'm 5'5" and 170lbs. I have a torqy stroke and I'm thinking of shortening my clubs to make squarer and not have to choke down as much. Is this a good idea?
Thanks for any tips,
-Bob

Answer
Hi Bob:

I'm 5'2" and 145 lbs.  I will not recommend shortening your clubs.  Consider flattening your irons, but I don't think you want to shorten them.  I actually have 3 different lie angles in my irons.  My short irons are 4 degrees flat, my middle irons are 3 degrees flat, and my 4 and 5 iron are 2 degrees flat.  I arrived at that by hitting balls and watching them fly.  We then would make adjustments to the irons and I'd hit more balls.  If you are having trouble making square contact, I'd check the lie angles first, and contine to choke down a half inch if you have to.  Being short like us, there is a tendency to play clubs that are too upright.  Square contact is hard to get and directional control is tough.  Then get some help with lessons if you need them to improve your technique.  I average about 265 off the tee and my clubs are standard length (always have been).  I've never played shorter clubs because I was short.  Please don't let someone talk you into that.  Hit balls and see and feel for yourself.  Good luck.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member