If there’s one part of golf that can turn an easy par into a frustrating double bogey, it’s chipping. You’ve probably seen the pros make it look effortless—just a smooth stroke, a gentle roll, and the ball cozies up right next to the hole. Meanwhile, the rest of us are out here chunking shots, skulling the ball across the green, or watching helplessly as it stops way short. The good news? With a few simple adjustments, you can sharpen your short game and start chipping with confidence.
And speaking of short-game moments that have left a lasting impact, how can we forget one of the most gut-wrenching Masters finishes for Greg Norman? After Scottie Scheffler recently surpassed Norman’s record for most weeks as World No. 1, it feels fitting to revisit a moment Norman would probably rather forget—Larry Mize’s 1987 chip-in that stole the green jacket right out of his grasp. But let’s not dwell on heartbreak; instead, let’s focus on how you can start making some clutch chips of your own.
1. Get Your Stance and Setup Right
Before even thinking about the swing, make sure your setup is solid. Stand with a narrow stance, keeping most of your weight on your front foot (around 60-70%). The ball should be positioned slightly back in your stance, and your hands should stay ahead of the ball. This setup encourages a clean, downward strike—minimizing the risk of chunking or blading the shot.
A good stance also helps with balance, which is key to making consistent contact. If you feel unsteady, adjust your stance slightly until you feel grounded and in control. Many amateur golfers overlook this step, but the right stance can be the difference between a crisp chip and a disaster.
2. Let the Club Do the Work
One of the biggest mistakes amateur golfers make is trying to ‘help’ the ball into the air. Instead of scooping or flipping your wrists, trust the loft of your wedge. Keep your hands steady, maintain a slight wrist hinge, and focus on striking the ball with the bounce of the club, not the leading edge. This allows for a smooth, controlled shot rather than a disastrous one.
Using the bounce properly also means you won’t dig the club into the turf. When executed correctly, the club should glide under the ball rather than stab it. The pros make this look easy because they let the club’s design work for them—follow their lead and stop overcomplicating things.
3. Choose the Right Club for the Situation
Not every chip shot requires a lob wedge. If you’ve got plenty of green to work with, consider using a pitching wedge or even an 8-iron for a bump-and-run. This keeps the ball lower and rolling more predictably, rather than floating unpredictably in the air. The key is understanding when to go high and soft versus when to keep it low and let it roll.
A general rule of thumb is: that the farther you are from the pin, the less loft you need. If you’re short-sided with little green to work with, then sure, grab your lob wedge and go for the soft landing. But if you have a good amount of space, a lower-lofted club gives you a safer, more consistent shot.
4. Keep Your Motion Smooth and Consistent
Chipping is about finesse, not force. The worst thing you can do is decelerate through impact or stab at the ball. Keep your grip relaxed, focus on a steady tempo, and let the club swing through naturally. A smooth, confident motion leads to better control and, ultimately, better results around the green.
To help with consistency, try this drill: take a few practice swings with your eyes closed, focusing on the feel of the motion. This helps you develop muscle memory and a more natural rhythm. When you open your eyes and take the shot, you’ll likely find your motion is smoother and more controlled.
5. Visualize the Shot Before You Hit It
Great chippers don’t just step up and swing—they see the shot in their mind first. Take a moment to pick your landing spot, picture the ball rolling toward the hole, and commit to that plan. This simple mental routine helps you stay focused and confident, reducing the chance of second-guessing yourself mid-swing.
One technique that many elite golfers use is “quiet eye.” This means focusing your gaze on the landing spot for a couple of seconds before you swing. Studies have shown that this improves accuracy by helping your brain lock in on the target. It might sound simple, but it’s an easy way to improve your short game without even touching a club.
Chipping doesn’t have to be a weakness in your game. With a few adjustments and a little practice, you can start getting up and down like a pro. And who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll pull off a clutch chip so perfect that even Greg Norman might have to admit it was impressive. Now, grab your wedge, hit the practice green, and start sharpening that short game!
The post 5 Proven Golf Drills To Perfect Effortless Chipping on the Greens appeared first on EssentiallySports.
