How to Learn the Basics of Chipping in a Short Golf Game

The short game in golf is an essential part of the game and typically starts at about 20 feet from the green. Chipping the golf ball correctly greatly increases your success on the golf course. Several clubs, such as a seven iron, nine iron, sand wedge or pitching wedge are sufficient for a chip shot. Follow the steps below to learn the basics of chipping in a short game of golf.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Line up your right foot with the ball, keep the majority of your weight on your left foot and hold your head over the ball.

2. Hold your grip further down than you would on a drive shot and keep your arms in a triangle with the shoulders.

3. Judge the distance of the shot and take a back swing. With chipping, the back swing is only taken about halfway back depending on the distance from the green. Keep a triangle in the arms and let the chest and arms do the work.

4. Swing the club like a pendulum through the ball, keeping your wrists straight as you hit the ball.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a few practice swings before stepping up to the ball and taking the shot. Remember the back swing must only come back a short distance.
• Keep your wrists ahead of the club head, being careful not to cock them through the swing. One way to see if you're breaking your wrists or not is to hold the club well down on the shaft. Take a swing, if the club hits you in the side then you're breaking your wrists through the swing.

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