Pitch and putt is a golf game that serves two purposes. It can be an ideal way for new golfers to learn the game without feeling the pressure of being on a long golf course. On a typical pitch-and-putt course, most holes are between 80 and 150 yards long. Players need not worry about long shots, and can concentrate on using good form. Pitch and putt can also be a productive way for experienced golfers to work on their short games. Only a few clubs are needed for the pitch-and-putt course.
8-Iron
Bring an 8-iron when playing pitch and putt. You may not need it on all the holes --- pitch-and-putt courses are usually just nine holes --- but you will need this club on shots longer than 110 yards. An 8-iron will give you sufficient distance when you need it, but it will also fly high in the air, and will allow you to land the ball somewhat softly when you want it to stop on the green. Many new golfers typically have a hard time getting the ball to go high in the air, so are apt to find the 8-iron to their liking.
Pitching Wedge
A pitching wedge is perhaps the most important club for any golfer to have when working on their short game. A pitching wedge can be used on any shot of 110 yards or less. Take a full swing when you are 90 to 110 yards away from the hole, with a strong backswing, and a high finish with your hands. On shots of about 60 yards, you don't need a full backswing, but you still must hit the ball aggressively. Never decelerate when hitting with the pitching wedge. Slowing your swing will cause you to mis-hit the ball. Use a putting stroke with your wedge when you are close to the green, and want to hit a low bump-and-run shot that will cause your ball to bounce on the green, then roll toward the hole.
Putter
One of the main reasons to go to the pitch-and-putt course is to work on your putting. Many of these courses have smaller greens than those on regulation 18-hole courses, but the greens can be treacherous with many breaks. Grasp the putter three to five inches down the shaft in order to give you a better feel when you strike the ball. Read the putt before you strike the ball, noticing where the breaks are and what adjustments might be necessary. Take one practice swing, and then strike the ball.
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