Pro Tips
Master The Chip Shot
How to Build a Solid Short Game
by Courtney Mahon , LPGA
Want to shoot lower scores ? Improving shots around the green is the quickest way to lower your scores . Learning proper setup and technique can make the entire short game simpler and more reliable . Every golfer should start with the most basic short game shot and be able to repeat it before attempting higher level shots . Mastering the basics of chip shots will build confidence when stepping up to the ball around the green and chip it close to the pin every time .
Chip Shot Setup Components
Having a neutral setup can make a tremendous difference in the success of your short game . 1 . Start with square body lines and a narrow stance .
2 . The ball should be positioned between the narrow stance .
3 . The club now has a chance to travel square to your body and work properly with the ground .
4 . Visualization is a big part of chipping well . Pick a spot on the putting surface where you want the ball to
land .
5 . The basic idea is to get the ball on the green and rolling as soon as you can .
The Chip Shot Motion
Note the slight forward press .
Start with square body lines and narrow stance . The ball should be positioned between the narrow stance . Note the slight forward press of the club shaft .
The motion of the chip shot swing should be controlled with both the body and the arms . The primary goal is to work toward achieving the same length and speed of your swing . My preference for the length of swing would have the club traveling two feet back and matching that distance on the forward swing . 1 . Incorporate a rhythmic motion throughout the duration of the swing . 2 . If it helps , you could count “ one ” on the backswing and “ two ” on the forward swing . 3 . Many players also use phrases such as “ tick , tock ” to help achieve a consistent rhythm .
4 . Whenever possible , try to get the ball running on the green like a putt as soon as possible . With practice , you ’ ll be able to judge how far it ’ ll roll-out much easier .
To get a good rhythm , count “ one ” on the backswing and “ two ” on the forward swing . Try the “ tick , tock ” phrase for a consistent swing rhythm . The goal is to get the ball rolling on the green toward the pin , like a putt , as soon as possible .
Practice , Practice , Practice
Practice the rhythm and technique of the basic shot until you can control your landing area choice and shot outcome . There is a long list of items that are part of building a strong short game , however mastering your basic shot and mastering a consistent rhythmic motion will serve as a solid foundation . Accomplishing this will allow you to build confidence that you can chip it close around the green every time . Doing so will require fewer putts and ultimately lower scores .
Courtney Mahon is a LPGA Class A professional and Director of Instruction at Tour Striker Golf Academy Midwest at Falcon Ridge Golf Club . Awarded 2020 LPGA Teacher of the Year and a Top 50 U . S . Kids Tour teacher for 2017 . For questions or help , contact her at Courtney @ TourStriker . com or call 913.393.4653 . Scan the QR Code for direct link to lesson videos and review them while you are on the range . Lesson videos at www . youtube . com / courtneymahongolf .
30 Nov . / Dec . 2024 TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE