Hitting solid chip shots around the green can make a big difference in your score. One way to approach a chip shot is to think of it as your first of two putts to make par. Getting the ball on the green alone is not good enough. The objective is to put yourself in position to easily sink your follow-up putt.
Lower Body Action
As you set up for a chip shot, keep everything the same. Grip the club as you would normally, step up to the ball like usual and use the same backswing form you use for any other shot. The modification to the swing only comes on your way back down to the ball. As the club begins to drive down, engage your lower body by slightly bending your knees and pushing them forward and into the direction of the target. This creates a smoother overall swing and ensures you follow through properly, which helps get the ball into the air.
Downslope Chip
If you find your ball resting on a downward slope, don't panic. Step up to the ball so that it is positioned in the back of your stance, slightly inside of your right foot for right-handed golfers. Position your shoulders parallel to the downward slope, leaning your left shoulder down. Point your left toes outward slightly for balance and take one step backwards, away from the target line, with your right foot. Swing down along the plane of the slope, keeping good form throughout. Your weight should be concentrated over your left foot. Ensure to follow through all the way and release the club properly, turning your right hand over your left after impact.
Light Gripping
Professional golfer Ernie Els recommends to focus on your grip rather than becoming engrossed with swing mechanics. Some players tend to grip the club more firmly than necessary around the green for chip shots, especially when a good score is on the line. Els prefers to keep the grip pressure light to create a smooth swing and natural release.
Chip Flip Drill
The chip flip drill encourages you to keep good form for chip shots that require air but short distances. The rational that a short distance shot requires a short swing with a little flick to get the ball airborne is counterproductive. Instead, focus on making a long swing with little wrist action. Swing the arms and rotate the body toward the target. Practice this technique by gripping an iron around the middle of the shaft. Cock your wrists slightly and concentrate on keeping the butt end of the shaft from hitting your side. Begin your swing and maintain the angle in the wrists, keeping the butt end away from the body, even in the follow through.
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