The art of the short game

Welcome to "The art of the short game" on Green Edge, where we delve into the essential techniques for chipping and pitching, key components for scoring well in golf. Mastering these skills allows you to navigate tricky situations around the greens and position yourself closer to the pin, thus reducing the number of putts per round and improving your overall score.

Technique tips: 

For chipping, the goal is to ensure a clean, controlled contact with the ball. Keep the majority of your weight on your front foot. This setup promotes a downward strike, essential for a consistent and reliable chip shot. The ball position should be back in your stance with your hands slightly ahead of the ball, which helps in hitting down on the ball and achieving a good loft.

For pitching, a different approach is required. Increase the wrist hinge during your backswing; this will help you generate more loft and spin on the ball. The added spin is crucial for stopping the ball quickly on the green, especially when you need to navigate over hazards or tight pin placements.

Club selection: 

Choosing the right club is crucial and depends on the distance to the pin and the type of shot required. For shorter chips with more roll, a 7-iron or a 9-iron might be ideal, allowing the ball to land softly and roll out towards the hole. For higher pitches, especially over obstacles like bunkers or water, a lob wedge or sand wedge would be more appropriate, providing the necessary loft to elevate the ball quickly and land softly with minimal roll.

Practice Routine: 

To hone these skills, set up practice scenarios that mimic real-game situations. Place balls in various lies around the green—thick rough, bare lies, uphill, and downhill positions. Practicing these different shots will improve your feel and adaptability, crucial for executing under pressure. For instance, you can practice the "clock-face drill" for pitching, where you visualize a clock and practice swinging your arms to different "hours" to control distance.

Drawing from the Pros: 

Take cues from Phil Mickelson, known for his exceptional short game. Observing his technique, particularly how he adjusts his body and club according to the shot at hand, can provide insights into effective chipping and pitching. His ability to execute a flop shot with a high degree of loft and minimal roll is something to study and integrate into your practice routines.

Mental Strategy: 

Confidence is key in the short game. Approach each shot with a clear plan and a positive mindset. Visualize the shot landing near the pin and imagine the line it will take on its way to the hole. Such mental imagery not only prepares you technically but also boosts your confidence as you execute the shot.

By incorporating these techniques and strategies into your practice, "The Art of the Short Game" on GreenEdge will transform your approach around the greens, making you a more formidable player and drastically lowering your scores.