Today, we continue our "Breaking 100" series with Coach Mike, focusing on improving your strikes with wedges while chipping. If you missed our initial segment, we covered the basic chipping setup. Now, let's delve deeper into making more consistent contact with your wedges.
Two major mistakes often plague golfers striving to break 100 when chipping:
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Off-Balance Shifting: Golfers tend to shift off the ball, failing to return to the lead foot. This results in a loss of balance, causing them to top it or drive the club straight into the ground behind the ball.
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Trying to Lift the Ball: During the backswing, golfers often try to lift the ball, creating a downward motion. As they come through, they move upward, leading to striking behind or hitting the top of the ball.
To rectify these issues, we'll introduce two swing thoughts for you to incorporate into your practice:
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Imagine a Wall Against the Lead Hip: Picture a wall against your lead hip with a piece of paper wedged between. If you sway off, the paper will fall. This visual will help you maintain balance and avoid shifting off the ball.
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Stay Tall: Keep your head level and posture tall during your swing. This prevents you from dipping down or trying to lift the ball.
Let's put these thoughts into action. Start with your setup, pin the imaginary paper between your hip and the wall, swing the club back with your arms, and finish through the shot. Remember to stay tall and keep your head level. If you sway back, the paper drops — a clear indicator of imbalance.
Try this out for yourself: Pin the paper, stay tall, and finish through the shot. This approach results in a solid, consistent chip.
If you're struggling with hitting behind or topping the ball, scrutinize your head and body movements. Avoid swaying off and dipping down.
We trust this "Breaking 100" segment with Coach Mike offers actionable insights to help improve your chipping game. If you have questions or would like more golf tips, feel free to drop a comment, like, and subscribe.
We're always here to help you enhance your golfing skills and look forward to seeing you break 100 in no time.
Happy golfing!
