IF you’re struggling to consistently hit good chip shots, you might want to copy the simple technique many pros use. They eliminate extraneous hand-and-wrist action to create a more reliable chipping motion. This “wristless” shot is so easy to execute, I did it without crushing one of my trademark hats [above].
Learn to do it in four simple steps:
1. Narrow Your Stance
Set up with your body aligned slightly left of the target and your weight favouring your front foot. The key adjustment here is to stand with your feet close together. That helps prevent excess body motion, which could lead to poor contact.
2. Swing The Triangle Back
Take note of the triangular shape formed by your arms and chest at address. When you make a backswing, your goal should be to preserve that triangle by turning your chest away from the target.
3. Staying Connected
Keep the upper part of your right arm touching the side of your chest throughout the stroke. But make sure you don’t become tense or stiff. This connection will help you control the swing.
4. Quiet Your Hands
Rotate your chest towards the target as your hands and wrists stay virtually inactive. The longer the chip, the more aggressively you should rotate. Control distance by the speed of your turn, not the length of your swing.
– David Leadbetter operates 25 golf academies worldwide.
