One of the fastest ways to lower your scores is to improve your success rate in getting the ball up and down when you miss a green. Even out on tour, most players hit only 12 greens out of 18 a round or fewer on average. So the ability to turn three shots into two more often around the green is crucial for all golfers.
That’s why it’s good to have a reliable, straightforward chip shot in your locker to deal with most – though not all – situations you may face when you miss a green.
Being able to play basic chip shots consistently will save you many shots
(Image credit: Kevin Murray)
This article about how to chip in golf addresses the technique required to master the basic chip shot. You’ll find advice about the more specialist options you may sometimes require around the green elsewhere on the Golf Monthly website, including the flop shot or lob shot, the hybrid chip and the greenside bunker shot.
When and why to chip
A good rule of thumb is that if there are no slopes, bunkers or mounds to go over, you should play a lower chip shot – often called the chip and run – to get the ball running as soon as possible.
You should also bear in mind that if your ball is only just off the green, or the fringes are cut quite tight, the putter may often be an even better option.
Setting up for a chip
For the simple greenside chip, narrow your stance and set more of your weight on your left side – about 60-65% – with the shaft leaning forwards a little.
Narrow your stance and keep more weight on your left side at address and as you play
(Image credit: Kevin Murray)
Your sternum should be slightly ahead of the ball. Set your feet and hips a little open to the target and grip down the club a little.
Don’t be afraid to hold the club quite a way down the grip for added control as Top Coach Paul Foston is doing here
(Image credit: Kevin Murray)
Resist the temptation to get the ball too far back in your stance, as this will get the shaft leaning too much and prevent you from using the bounce in the sole of the club properly. It will increase the risk of you…
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