Different set up for chipping

• Unlike in full swings, when it comes to chip shots from around the green, you should not look to hinge your wrists.
• Play the shot more like a putting stroke. In other words, the power will come from a rocking of the shoulders - while keeping your wrists firm.
• Overactive hands will result in a flicking of the wrists through impact (as demonstrated in picture 1) and this will generally lead to a bad or inconsistent strike.

Best way to play the shot

• In your setup, position the ball slightly back in your stance and move your weight onto your left side (for right handed golfers) with the hands slightly forward of the ball as well.
• The stroke (see picture 2) is similar to a putting stroke, with the rocking of the shoulders and firm wrists encouraging a downward strike that is easier to control.

The drill to stop the hands from being too active involves holding the end of a piece of dowelling (or something similar, like an old shaft) against the grip of the club, with the other end pointing upwards, as in picture 3. If you feel the end of the rod hitting you in the side as you chip, you will know that your hands are too active in the shot. The secret is to practise playing the shot without the rod striking you.

Tip by Franscois Spangenberg

Francois Spangenberg recently qualified as a PGA professional and teaches at Wanderers Golf Club. As an amateur he played for the Ekhuruleni team. Contact Francois on 082 718 5909 or e-mail him at francois@pgasa.com.