When to use a chip shot

Many golfers don’t know the difference between a chip and a pitch. They are different shots used in different areas of the course. I will explain the chip shot in this article.

Chipping is a low-trajectory shot used close to the green, where the ball usually rolls more than it flies. You don’t use a chip when you have to hit to an elevated green or over a bunker. The chip shot usually has less “air time” and more “roll time.” Choose clubs with less loft, such as a gap wedge, pitching wedge, 9-iron, 8-iron, 7-iron or a hybrid.

Always walk on the green before hitting a chip shot. Walk behind the hole first and look back at your ball. Determine whether the shot is uphill or downhill. Next, walk to the side of the hole and determine which side is lower. Walk back to your ball to determine how far the chip shot is. My stride is 2 feet, and I count how many steps I have taken. This gives me a good idea of how long the chip is.

Next, go through your pre-shot routine. Choose the club you want to use after you have assessed the distance and slope.

Pre-shot routine:

• Standing behind the ball, pick a landing area.
• From behind the ball, pick an intermediate target close to you to aim and align your club.
• Next, choose the club you want to use to land the ball and roll it to the target.

Constants:
• Grip down on the club close to the shaft with light grip pressure.

• Aim the clubface first using your intermediate target with your feet together.
• Next, separate your feet narrowly and slightly open.
• Position the ball inside your back foot.
• Lean 60% of your weight on your target side and leave it there with no weight shift.
• Think of the letter “Y,” which is formed by your shoulders and two straight arms. Lean the “Y” over your target thigh with a flat target hand. No wrist hinge.

• The swing is “Y” to “Y” with the same length and tempo on both sides of the ball.
• Make sure your swing is descending from high to low.
Hold your follow-through and swivel your head to watch the “roll time.” This is important because it will tell you how your putt is going to break.

Variables:
• The distance the hole is from the edge of the green is important.
• An uphill shot takes less loft. A downhill shot takes more loft.
• Practice your ratios of air time and roll time with a variety of clubs.
Your goal is to chip the ball onto the green and take two putts or fewer.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean.com.