The short game is vital to the development of your golf game. While it may feel great to hit a drive 250 yards down the middle, your ability to put the ball on the green and get close to the hole when you are 100 yards or closer will have a significant impact on your score. By skillfully using your 9-iron, your wedges and your putter, you will have a great chance to improve your game.
Pitching Wedge
Swing your pitching wedge with a solid pace. Many players think they have to slow down their club head when they are close to the green because the shot is relatively short. However, taking the pace out of your swing will quite likely result in a shot that is not well-executed. On a short shot, take less of a backswing and follow-through, but keep a reasonable pace to your swing and don't "baby" your shot.
Proper Stance
Many golfers see the lofted face of the pitching wedge or 9-iron and think they have to play the ball forward in their stance in order to make sure they get the ball in the air. That's the wrong way to play the shot. Play your 9-iron and wedge shots midway in your stance and swing down on the ball. This will force the ball high in the air and help you put backspin on it to keep it on the green when it lands. Be aggressive with your shot when you are 75 or more yards away from the hole and lead with your hands.
Putting Approach
Take one practice swing when preparing to putt--and no more. After you determine the path your ball will take on its way to the hole, step up to your ball, take your practice swing and then putt the ball. Golfers who take two or three practice swings and think about their putt for 20 seconds or more tend to get nervous and rarely hit a solid putt. Your best approach is to read the green, come up with a plan on how you are going to hit your putt, aim, take one practice swing and hit it.
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