Beginner Basics: The simplest way to chip
When you’re close to the green, take out one of your wedges to hit a chip shot, which will gently loft the ball in the air and onto the green. Even though this is a small swing, you still want to use your big muscles—your hips, chest and shoulders. Let’s dive in. — Anders Mattson, one of Golf Digest’s Best Teachers in New York
- Open the clubface slightly.
- Do this before you take your grip.
- The clubface should be pointing to the right of the target (for right handers).
- Point the shaft straight up and down.
- Don’t lean it towards or away from the target.
- Put the ball in the middle of your feet.
- Keep your nose over the ball—don’t lean your spine forward or backward.
- Your arms, hands and club all start back together.
- Don’t hinge your wrists—use your bigger muscles.
- Keep your arms soft and relaxed.
- Brush the ground with the clubhead.
- Finish with soft, slightly bent elbows.
- Hold your finish with club pointed at target and clubface pointed towards the sky.