What is the proper technique for chipping with my wedges

Chipping with your wedges is a crucial skill to have in golf. It can help you save strokes around the green and improve your overall score. Here, we will walk you through the proper technique for chipping with your wedges.

1. Proper Setup:

  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Position the ball slightly back in your stance, closer to your back foot.
  • Lean the majority of your weight on your front foot.
  • Keep your hands ahead of the ball and your wrists firm.

2. Club Selection:

  • Choose the appropriate wedge for the shot based on the distance and trajectory you want to achieve.
  • Aim to use a higher lofted wedge, such as a sand wedge or lob wedge, for short chips around the green.

3. Backswing:

  • Keep your wrists firm and make a smooth, controlled backswing.
  • Allow your arms and shoulders to move together, maintaining a connected motion.
  • Avoid excessive wrist hinge or flipping of the clubface.

4. Downswing:

  • Shift your weight onto your front foot.
  • Keep your hands ahead of the clubhead throughout the swing.
  • Initiate the downswing by turning your hips and transferring your weight onto your front foot.
  • Keep your clubhead low to the ground throughout the impact zone.

5. Impact and Follow-through:

  • Make contact with the ball using a descending blow, hitting the ball first and then taking a small divot.
  • Keep your wrists firm and maintain a square clubface at impact.
  • Follow through with your swing, extending your arms and club toward the target.
  • Finish with a balanced stance, keeping your weight on your front foot.

6. Practice:

  • Dedicate time to practice your chipping technique using different wedges and distances.
  • Set up different targets around the green and vary the trajectory of your shots.
  • Focus on consistency and controlling your distance.

7. Course Management:

  • Assess the lie and conditions around the green before choosing your shot and wedge.
  • Consider the slope, rough, and potential hazards.
  • Plan your shot accordingly to ensure the best outcome.

Conclusion:

Mastering the proper technique for chipping with your wedges can greatly improve your short game and help you save strokes around the green. Remember to focus on setup, club selection, backswing, downswing, impact, and follow-through. Regular practice and effective course management will allow you to confidently execute various chip shots and lower your golf scores. Good luck!