Every rec player wants to hit chip shots that take one hop and stop on a dime. Good news: It’s easier than it looks. The key is combining an open clubface with a downward angle of attack, and both are achievable with a few simple setup adjustments.
Start by grabbing your highest-lofted wedge and positioning the ball slightly forward in your stance, just below your lead eye. To promote a steeper attack angle, use a modified grip: place all five fingers of your trail hand on the club, then set the index finger of your lead hand over the pinkie of your trail hand to create a reverse overlap. Finally, rotate your trail hand slightly on top of the grip to encourage a more descending angle of attack.
From there, make an up-and-down chipping motion and focus on striking the back of the ball cleanly. Done correctly, the ball will check quickly and stop — just like it does for the pros.
Jeff Smith is a GOLF Top 100 Teacher and the director of instruction at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, Calif., and Pine Canyon Golf Club, in Flagstaff, Ariz.
