A Simple Drill for Better Chipping

Here's a straightforward and effective drill to improve chipping technique, focusing on proper club head movement and reducing excessive shaft lean, which can lead to poor strikes.

Chipping can often be a frustrating aspect of golf, especially when players find themselves fatting or thinning their shots. If you've ever experienced the disappointment of leaving a chip shot short or sending it sailing over the green, you're not alone. In this post, we will explore a simple yet effective drill that can transform your chipping technique, as demonstrated through a recent coaching session with a client named Martin.

Understanding the Problem

During our session, Martin expressed concerns about his chipping performance. He was struggling with swing issues that resulted in inconsistent strikes, often hitting fat shots that left the ball in front of him or thinning it altogether. This is a common issue among golfers, often stemming from a misunderstanding of how to properly execute a chip shot.

Common Misconceptions

Many golfers have been taught to maintain a forward shaft lean during their chipping motion, keeping their hands ahead of the club head through impact. While this is a valid technique, Martin was applying it too aggressively, causing the leading edge of the club to dig into the ground behind the ball. This led to poor contact and inconsistent results.

The One-Handed Drill

To address Martin's chipping woes, I introduced him to a simple drill that focuses on the correct movement of the club head. The drill involves swinging the club with one hand, which allows for a more natural motion and helps to eliminate the excessive shaft lean that was causing his issues.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Grip with One Hand: Start by removing the left hand from the club and gripping it with just the right hand. This may feel strange at first, but it is crucial for developing the right feel.
  2. Swing Back and Forth: Begin swinging the club back and forth with your right hand only. Focus on allowing the club head to move freely while keeping the handle relatively still. This will help you achieve a better strike without digging into the ground.
  3. Observe the Results: As Martin practiced this drill, he was amazed to see the ball popping up beautifully without any marks on the ground. This immediate feedback reinforced the effectiveness of the drill.

Transitioning to Two Hands

Once Martin became comfortable with the one-handed swing, we gradually reintroduced the left hand. The key was to maintain a light grip with the left hand to avoid reverting to the old habit of excessive shaft lean.

Key Points to Remember

  • Light Grip: When adding the left hand back onto the club, ensure that it is a light grip. This will help maintain the correct club head movement.
  • Focus on Club Head Movement: The goal is to allow the club head to swing through the impact area while keeping the handle closer to your body. This promotes a more natural motion and prevents the leading edge from digging into the ground.
  • Body Movement: Encourage a fluid motion by allowing your head and body to flow through the shot. This will help avoid a static posture that can lead to poor strikes.

Summary of Key Takeaways

Martin's initial struggles with chipping stemmed from an overemphasis on keeping his hands ahead of the club head, leading to fat and thin shots. By focusing on the following principles, he was able to improve his technique significantly:

  • Move the handle less and allow the club head to move more freely.
  • Start with one-handed swings to develop the correct feel.
  • Gradually reintroduce both hands while maintaining a light grip.
  • Ensure that the body flows through the shot for a more natural motion.

Conclusion

Improving your chipping technique doesn't have to be complicated. By practicing this simple one-handed drill, you can develop a better understanding of how to control the club head and achieve cleaner strikes. Remember, the key is to build trust in your swing and allow the club to move freely. With practice, you'll find yourself chipping with confidence and precision.