Intermediate golfers often realise that shaving strokes off their score comes from the finesse shots around the green. It’s not about power; it’s about touch, strategy and consistency. In this article, we’ll dive into techniques to help you turn your short game into a scoring weapon.
Chipping & Pitching
- Ball position: Keep the ball slightly back in your stance for chips; centre for pitches to control trajectory.
- Club selection: Use wedges or mid-irons to vary roll and flight; experiment to find your comfort.
- Tempo & rhythm: Maintain a smooth, short backswing and follow-through; accelerate through impact.
- Weight forward: Keep 60‑70% of your weight on your front foot to encourage a crisp, downward strike.
Putting
- Reading greens: Evaluate slopes, grain, and speed by walking around the hole; practice reading variations.
- Stroke & tempo: Keep a smooth, pendulum-like motion; maintain consistent tempo for accuracy.
- Pace control: Focus on distance rather than target; practice lag putts to develop feel.
- Pre-shot routine: Develop a consistent routine to calm nerves and build confidence.
Bunker Play
- Open stance: Align your feet slightly left of target (right-handers) to encourage an out-to-in swing path.
- Clubface: Open the clubface before gripping to add bounce; maintain an open face through the swing.
- Hit behind the ball: Aim to strike 1–2 inches behind the ball; the sand will carry the ball out.
- Accelerate: Commit to an accelerating swing through the sand; avoid decelerating at impact.
Mastering the short game takes dedication. Practice with intention, stay patient, and watch your scores drop—your short game is the secret weapon that transforms rounds.
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