When it comes to seeing success in the short game, the first thing you need to know is that each shot is created differently — so you’ve got to make a few adjustments in order to hit the one you want.
For instance, if you’re forced to hit a flop shot that produces a high trajectory and lands softly, how would your setup differ from a standard pitch or chip shot that stays low and rolls? For many amateur golfers, the answer can be tricky.
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Not only do you need to think about grip changes (like choking down), but you’ve got to worry about the angle of attack, the length of both your backswing and followthrough, and where your landing spot should be.
But none of that matters much if your setup is a disaster, because, if we’re being honest, that’s going to determine whether or not you even make good contact.
With a handful of different short game shots at your disposal, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Cameron McCormick wants to help you improve. In the video below, McCormick offers up a “cheat code” that shows the setup differences for three popular short game shots — a chip, a pitch and a flop shot.
Use this ‘cheat code’ to dial in different types of short game shots
“Here’s your cheat code for better chips, pitches, and flop shots,” McCormick declares at the beginning of the video.
But instead of suggesting all sorts of swing adjustments for these short game shots, McCormick focuses on the setup — specifically with the width of your feet, the ball position, and how your weight should be for each. Take a look below to see his tips.
Chip shots
When chipping in the short game, you’ll need to control both your backswing and follow through — since it’s not a full swing. Keeping your feet together will help ensure you do this properly, while still allowing you to turn your upper body towards the target as you come through impact.
“Hit from a stance where the outside of your feet are no wider than 10 inches, and the ball is to the right of center,” McCormick says.
Pitch shots
When executing a pitch shot, using a narrower stance that’s about shoulder-width apart is clutch, as this helps control both the distance and the trajectory of your shot. It also adds some insurance against skulling or chunking.
“The pitch stance should have 10 inches between the inside of the foot, with the ball centered,” McCormick instructs.
Flop shots
On flop shots, you’ll want to use a wider stance to help keep the lower part of your body still during the swing. Doing this also adds loft to the clubface — which is a must in order to keep it open to produce the necessary ball flight.
“Let’s go all the way to 20 inches between your stance, and put the ball slightly forward of the center of our feet,” McCormick adds. “But now shift your chest [just slightly forward] of center, use a lofted face, and lay it open.”
Now that you know the setup differences between three popular short game shots, make sure to utilize the tips during your next round and watch better results appear in no time.
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