Top Tips for Left Handed Golfers

If you’re a left-handed golfer, you already know that things can be difficult on and off the golf course.

• Lack of proper instruction for lefty golfers: Instruction is (usually) given with right-handed golfers in mind. We see it all the time: “Left-handed Golfers – just reverse everything…”
• Finding left handed golf clubs and other equipment for lefties: Any time one of your right-handed buddies gets new, top-of-the-line clubs, you can’t try them out using your natural swing. Finding the appropriate left handed golf clubs can be difficult, since a lot of retailers stock a limited number of left-handed clubs. (It makes sense—supply and demand and whatnot, but still.)
• Courses are designed for right-handed players: Let’s face it. Most courses are designed for righties, and as a left-hander you may have to work harder to navigate obstacles closer to the tee box. In the short game, though, the playing field for right- and left-handers is usually pretty equal.

Famous Left-Handed Golfers

Don’t let the fact that you are left-handed stop you from beginning or excelling in the game. Some of the greatest golfers of all times have been lefties! Famous left-handed golfers include several PGA greats:

• Phil Mickelson
• Bubba Watson
• Bob Charles
• Mike Weir
• Steve Flesch
• The late Ben Hogan

There’s even an association dedicated to this rare breed, the National Association of Left-Handed Golfers, which holds a championship tournament each year.

In addition, recently the European Tour challenged golf pros like Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson to channel their inner lefties in a “Left-Handed Challenge.”

Take a look at some of these top videos and tips specifically for lefties.

1. How to Improve Your Bunker Play

Phil Mickelson tells the former commander-in-chief on how to improve his bunker play.

Phil Mickelson shares a tip to the former commander in chief on how to improve his bunker play.

Watch how-to golf swing tips from the proper hand position to the rotation on the downswing.

(Tip: if you want to bypass the intro to learn more about the proper golf swing skip to the 5:30 mark in the video.)

1. Create a Power Release

Golf Info Guide writes, “Although power is built up through a complex combination of movements, using a stronger grip can create a power release.” For proper left handed golf grip techniques, see how to achieve this strong grip and learn the difference between it and a neutral grip here.

2. Conclude Swing with Full Follow Through

BB Golfer writes, “Left-handed golfers must try to conclude their swing with a full follow through, thereby leaving them on the balls of their feet. Why? Check it out here.

3. Left Handed Drill to Improve Swing Fundamentals

This video from the Golf Channel shows how swinging on each side can reset your brain and why it is beneficial in improving your left-handed game.

Opt for a Custom Club Fitting

To find a set of left-handed golf clubs that are perfectly customized for you and your swing, consider a custom club fitting, such as the PGA Tour Superstore Custom Club Fitting Van Experience. Your new custom clubs will be built and shipped to the location of your choice.

Don’t Forget Golf School!

You can always improve your game with professional instruction at one of Northeast Florida’s golf schools. Seek out a golf pro that is left-handed—they can help you develop your skills and are more likely to understand your challenges as a left-handed golfer. A school that comes highly recommended and is open to the public is the PGA Tour Performance Center at TPC Sawgrass.

Other Pro Tips

For more suggestions to help you get the most out of your game, check out our blog on 9 must-have accessories for golfing in the rain.