Every rec player wants to hit chip shots that take one hop and stop on a dime.
Good news: It’s easier than it looks. The key is combining an open clubface with a downward angle of attack, and both are achievable with a few simple setup adjustments.
Start by grabbing your highest-lofted wedge and positioning the ball slightly forward in your stance, just below your lead eye. To promote a steeper attack angle, use a modified grip: place all five fingers of your trail hand on the club, then set the index finger of your lead hand over the pinkie of your trail hand to create a reverse overlap. Finally, rotate your trail hand slightly on top of the grip to encourage a more descending angle of attack.
From there, make an up-and-down chipping motion and focus on striking the back of the ball cleanly. Done correctly, the ball will check quickly and stop—just like it does for the pros.
Jeff Smith is director of instruction at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, Calif., and Pine Canyon Golf Club, in Flagstaff, Ariz.
