Today’s chipping lesson will quickly describe two different philosophies for shots around the greens. Find the one that works best and you will no doubt play better golf.

Philosophy 1 – Use 1 or 2 clubs with multiple swings and ball positions.
Philosophy 2 – Use the same chipping motion with multiple clubs.

I’ve tried both methods over the years and ended up using the first simply because it worked better for me. Please understand this doesn’t mean it will work better for you. Here are quick explanations for each method.

#1: I hit 95% of all chip shots with my 60 degree lob wedge. For high shots, I’ll open the club face and play the ball in the middle of my stance. For lower, running shots, I’ll square up the face and play the ball off my back toe with my weight forward. These changes allow me to achieve many different trajectories and run out options with the same club. For long shots that must release across most of the green, I’ll grab a pitching wedge and play it back in my stance. It’s rare that I grab another club other than these two. This philosophy is characterized by multiple shots with a select few clubs.

#2: I’ve seen the second method work just as well by a friend of mine who played Division 1 golf here in Colorado. He basically uses a putting motion when chipping and changes clubs based on the desired carry and run out needed for the shot. He’ll use a lob wedge all the way up to a 5 iron. His set up position is very consistent with the ball played in the middle of his stance and his weight slightly forward. He’ll take the club back just below knee height and then follow through. This philosophy is characterized by multiple clubs used with the same chipping motion.

If you’ve struggled with shots around the greens, spend a little time with both methods to see which works best. I’m guessing one or the other will stand out. This is the one you should commit to. It sounds insignificant but committing mentally to your preferred method is critical. It helps with confidence and it also keeps your practice time productive. You won’t waste time experimenting when you already know what to work on.

That wraps up today’s quick chipping lesson. Now get out there, find what works and play better golf this year.

Increased Confidence = Better Chip Shots = More Up and Downs = Better Scores
*Finding your preferred method will no doubt give your confidence a boost.

Thanks for stopping by. Be sure to check back soon.
Mike

Follow me on Twitter: @Mike_Snyder