The most important facts in a nutshell
Chipping in golf is one of the essential techniques for a strong short game. By targeting the ball towards the green and minimizing the distance to the flag, you will not only improve your score, but also gain confidence in every situation. In this article, you will learn all about technique, exercises, typical mistakes and tips that will improve your chipping golf in the long term - whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer.
What does "chipping golf" mean and how do you play the ball correctly?
Chipping is a short, flat approach shot in which the ball usually lies close to the green. The aim is to play the ball over short distances so that it lands as early as possible and then rolls towards the flag. In contrast to the pitch, where the ball flies higher and rolls less, the chip remains flat and controlled.
Typical situations for a chip:
- The ball is close to the green, but a full swing is not necessary.
- A short distance to the flag must be bridged precisely.
- The terrain does not allow a putt, for example due to uneven ground or high grass.
The basics of chipping
1. the correct ball position and address stance
- Ball position: Slightly to the right in the stance position, i.e. closer to the back foot.
- Weight: About 60-70% on the front foot - and it stays there when chipping.
- Grip and hands: The hands are in front of the ball, which leads to a better impact angle and clean ball contact.
- Stance: Shoulder width, stable, the club rests calmly behind the ball.
- Thought: No big golf swing - it's about precision, not power.
2. which club for chipping?
It depends on the situation, the landing point and the roll distance. Typical clubs:
- Pitching wedge: More flight, less roll.
- Sand wedge or lob wedge: High chips, short roll phase.
- Iron 8 or 9: Flat chip, longer roll phase.
Every golfer has their preference, but understanding the basic factors is crucial to choosing the right club for the situation.
The right technique: how to chip successfully
The chip movement is similar to the putt: calm, controlled and with a compact range of motion.
Pay attention to the following aspects:
- Lunge: Short and controlled - don't overdo it.
- Movement: From the shoulders, without too much use of the wrists.
- Clubface: Remain straight to the direction - no "spooning" (the ball is scooped up).
- Pressure and calmness: The club head glides through the ground, the moment of impact is stable.
Tip from the PGA Professional: Visualize the landing point and imagine the roll distance. Only the right flight-roll mix makes a chip effective.
Common mistakes when chipping and how to avoid them
1. too much use of the wrists
When chipping, many golfers lose control when they play the shot from the wrist. The result: imprecise trajectories and uneven ball contact.
2. leaning back in the swing
If you shift your weight to the back foot when chipping, the club often hits the ground first - so-called "fat" shots. The result: the ball remains too short.
3. wrong choice of club
Not every chip needs the same club. Analyze the course, ground conditions and obstacles. Practice with different wedges to get a feel for their behavior.
Effective exercises for precise chipping
Exercise 1: Target zones on the practice green
Place three small markers on the green - close, medium and far to the flag. Practice chipping the ball into the defined landing point. Vary your club, technique and stance.
Exercise 2: The one club comparison
Take just one pitching wedge and chip from different distances. This will teach you to control different distances with one club.
Exercise 3: "1-2-3" rhythm
Counting helps when practicing: "1" when swinging out, "2" when hitting, "3" in the follow-through. This will help you develop a natural, calm rhythm - without any hectic pace.
Tip: Numerous YouTube videos with PGA professionals show you these exercises - ideal for your training at home or before the round.
When to chip - when not to?
Not every short shot is a chip. Use it in the following situations:
- The ball is just outside the green, without any obstacles.
- The distance to the flag is a maximum of 20 meters.
- The ground is dry and level - ideal rolling characteristics.
Avoid the chip:
- If you have to play a lot over obstacles - better pitch or lob wedge.
- On very wet ground where the club can easily get stuck.
- If the ball is deep in the rough - then you need a different technique.
The impact on your game and your score
Chipping golf is a strategic key to a better score. Why?
- You save strokes when the ball comes close to the flag.
- You gain confidence and control in the short game.
- You can compensate for mistakes in the long game with precise approach shots.
Conclusion from the PGA Professional: Good chippers are often the better golfers - not because of strength, but because of technique, planning and consideration in the respective situation.
A better chip with calm and technique
Chipping golf is not rocket science - but it is a skill that needs to be practiced. With the right ball position, a calm movement, the right choice of club and regular practice, you will develop a confident feel.
Never forget: it's not about power, but about feel, technique and precision.
Take these points with you on your next round:
- Check your position: weight in front, hands in front of the ball
- Pay attention to technique: No spooning, no wobbly wrists
- Keep an eye onthe clubface and direction
- Perform exercises regularly - on the court or in training
