You learn to write by starting with the alphabet. You learn music by practicing scales. So why do golfers try to learn the game by slamming drivers, the most difficult club of all? To improve your golf game, begin with the putter and progress through the game's challenges with ease and confidence. As you move from putts to chips to pitches and the full swing, you'll find they all share a common power source: the shoulders.
Putt With Your Shoulders
You don't want maximum power on all of your golf shots---you want just enough to send the ball to the target. Your shoulder turn is the motor for all your golf shots, and you can learn its power on the putting green. Start with a 1-foot putt, and move the putter with a small turn of your shoulders. Then strike a putt from 100 feet, and notice that it requires a larger shoulder turn to get the ball to the hole.
A Chip is a Putt with a Hop
Your putting stroke works well from off the green, too. Place 75 percent of your weight on your left foot and address the ball 1 inch behind the center of your stance. Turn your shoulders to the right in your back swing and to the left in your forward swing; govern your distance through the size of your shoulder turn. You can chip with any of your short irons, but keep your hands passive throughout your stroke.
A Pitch is a Soft, Slow Swing
When you need a longer shot than a chip can deliver, or need a high shot that is less than full power, you must pitch the ball. Play the pitch just as you would a chip, but allow your right arm to fold to 90 degrees during your back swing. Your shoulders are still the primary source of power, but your right arm will straighten naturally and add power as you turn to face the target.
Full Shoulder Turn for Full Power
When you feel confident with your short game, it's time to launch some powerful drives. Once again, your shoulders are the source of energy in the swing, and you should turn them in your back swing until your back is facing the target. As you begin your forward swing, turn your shoulders to face the target and allow your weight to transfer into your left foot. Your arms and hands should stay relaxed, and get whipped through the impact area with tremendous force.
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