CLUB LENGTH APPROXIMATION
CLUB LENGTH. We factor in posture at address and swing style when we fit clubs, but here's a table that will give you a quick check on club length. We use 37.25" as a standard length for a 6-iron for the purposes of the following table, and yes, we think a 1/4-inch difference matters. If you are out of range by a half inch then definitely get club lengths -- and swingweights -- adjusted. And if you play competitively, then head straight to a professional clubfitter and get evaluated. Be sure to have lie angles checked.
Some form of this table is found just about everywhere that golf clubs are sold. We only include it here to make one point. If your junior golfer is playing with your old set of clubs, or the clubs he/she was using a couple of years ago, then we recommend using the table for a quick measurement. You will probably find the wrong clubs are being used. And if they're adult clubs, they will probably be too heavy -- think about potential wrist injury.
To measure wrist-to-floor length, wear comfortable low-sole-height shoes or golf shoes and stand erect with your arms hanging down close by your sides. Have someone measure the distance from the floor to the major wrist crease at the base of both hands. If the numbers are different, then take the average of the two measurements and match it to your height using the chart above. It will indicate a good starting point for getting the right length for your clubs, but keep in mind that your address position and other factors affect fitting choices for club length.
Training with clubs that don't fit properly is a major mistake we see all too often. The golfer grooves in swing compensations that are difficult to overcome later. It's because motor learning lays down neural pathways that are quite difficult to change. Muscles don't have memory, but mid-brain regions certainly do and it persists throughout life. It's part of the reason we suggest that junior golfers have their club specifications checked frequently, especially during the rapid growth years. The other reason is that other kids are getting it done and it gives them a competitive advantage.