Golf tip: Ball below and ball above

Editor's note: Steve Charters is in his 13th year as a pro at Twin Pines Golf Course. Born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Charters competed at Central College in Pella and has been a pro for 20 years in Dubuque and Cedar Rapids.

It would be ideal to have nice flat golf courses to play all the time. But the reality is big hills and rolling valleys can be found at courses all over the country.

While these certainly make for some nice scenery they also bring some adjustments you'll need to make in your pre-swing set up.

When the ball is resting below your feet on a side hill lie, you will really have to squat down and stay in that squatting position through impact. There can be a tendency to pull up and out of the position, so concentrate on keeping the flex in your knees to maintain your position. Aim a little left of your target because the swing path sets up for more of a cut across your target line creating a left to right shot.

When the ball is resting above your feet on a side hill lie, choke up an inch or so on the grip because the ball actually will be a little closer to you. Instead of squatting, you'll need to stand a little taller than normal to offset the ball being closer. Aim a little right of your target because your swing will naturally be a little flatter in this instance so the ball tends to work right to left more.

Make these simple adjustments when you set up and the rolling hills need not be an issue.

- Steve Charters