Chipping is a crucial part of golf. You can’t hit every green in regulation (even the pro’s don’t), so being able to chip it close enough to one putt is the secret to making or saving par, while your buddies are struggling for bogie or worse.

As you saw in the video getting the golf ball high is crucial when you need to get over a bunker, or any other obstacle around the green.

To get the ball high into the air with a chip shot you have to do a couple things to your golf swing. First you need to put your weight slightly back onto your right leg. Next you need to take the club back low and swing at a low angle.

Taking the club back low sets you up for a flatter swing arc in the downswing. This enables you to hit lower on the golf ball than normal. Think about it like you are taking the club and slicing in between the ground and the ball.

You want to keep the club low on your follow through too. This doesn’t mean you slow down at impact or stop your swing after contact, you have to hit through the ball just like any other golf shot (except certain bunker shots).

You have to keep your momentum through impact. Simply keep the club low on the follow through. This will keep you from trying to scoop the ball. Scooping the golf ball doesn’t get it in the air.

Don’t be afraid to bring your lower body into this shot. You still want a weight transfer just take it nice and easy.

Also try hitting these shots off of a variety of grass conditions. They are really easy to hit off of a fluffy lie, but you can still hit them off of short grass (it just takes some practice and confidence).

These shots are actually a lot of fun to practice, try popping the ball up and over shrubs and small trees. The more you practice the better feel you will get with these high chip shots.

For more short game instruction from Darrell Klassen Click Here.

Now go out there and give these shots a try.

For Better Golf,
Doc O’Leary
Head Golf Nut, OHP