Golf: Chipping and Putting Tips

Try out my four-iron chip shot. Simply bump it past the fringe, and let it roll on out. Use your putting grip and choke down a few inches.

My short game has become a lot better as of lately from adding more golf clubs to my available chipping selection. In particular, on those long chips where you just want to land the ball to the green in order to allow it just roll on out, I have had a lot of success using a 4 iron . I used that particular hit just last weekend when out with a buddy, which wound up being an easy two putt from twenty yards out.

I like using a reverse overlapping putting grip as it helps me make sure and keep my hands moving as a single unit. Pretty much everything else that I focus on is fundamental chipping. I place my weight on my left foot, and put the ball slightly back from center using a narrow but somewhat open stance. This helps me to come down in a descending strike into the back of the golf ball. Before I start to do anything, however, I look over the break and select a spot on the other side of the fringe where I'd like the golfball to hit.

Just as when I putt, I keep my head still long after striking the ball. This helps me strike the ball solidly. Think of the line as a width of the cup. Then, aim for a series of holes in order to reduce pressure.

Too many golfers I meet are far too worried with the accuracy of their line. Actually, most I've met tell me they picture a thin line on the green reaching from the ball to the cup. But, the harder they try to hit that line, the more tense they get. As a result, this keeps them from making a smooth, relaxed stroke, & the golf ball doesn't stay on the inteded path.

Instead, I tell people to envision a path from the putter to the hole as a number of holes. This image should go a long way to help you imagine an overall route to the cup, & can allow you to remain relaxed and just let it flow through you. When you set up to put, simply think about hitting the ball into the first hole only inches away - think only about the real hole for distance control only - which should ease the pressure off & make putting easier & more productive.