Golf Chipping Tips Guide Practice

Short Game Guide

A strong short game is the fastest way to lower your scores and build confidence on the course. Shots played around the green require precision and strategy. This SpineAlign Golf short game guide explains the essential techniques for chipping, pitching, bunker play, and putting - so you can save strokes and approach every shot with a plan.

Why the Short Game Matters

Most golfers lose strokes inside one hundred yards. Improving your short game helps you recover from mistakes, get up and down more often and give you a better chance of getting close to par. With the right fundamentals you can control distance, flight trajectory, and spin with ease.

Chipping Fundamentals

Chipping is used when you are close to the green and need a low controlled shot that rolls toward the hole.

Key Principles

Keep your stance narrow for stability and use the SpineAlign App with Wedge selected.
Position the ball slightly back in your stance (right of center.)
Lean your weight slightly toward your lead side. Zero App in this position.
Make a simple putting style motion using upper body with relaxed hands.

This creates clean contact and predictable rollout.

Pitching Basics

Pitch shots fly higher and land softer than chips making them ideal when you need the ball to stop quickly.

Pitch Technique

Use a slightly wider stance. Use the SpineAlign App with Wedge selected.
Play the ball near the center.
Allow your wrists to hinge naturally with light grip.
Swing with smooth rhythm and balanced tempo.
Weight stays centered.

Good pitching requires commitment through impact and consistent acceleration.

Bunker Shot Essentials

Greenside bunker shots may look intimidating but a sound technique makes them one of the most reliable short game shots.

Bunker Steps

Open the clubface before gripping the club. Aim the open clubface to the target.
Aim your body 30 degrees left of the target. Keep clubface aimed at target.
Hit the sand one to two inches behind the ball.
Allow the sand to carry the ball out.
Place more weight on your left side for most shots. Keep weight even when trying for higher ball flight to get over bunker lip.

The goal is to splash the ball out with loft and softness.

Putting Technique

Putting is where small adjustments lead to big improvements. A solid putting routine helps you roll the ball on your intended line with better speed control.

Putting Basics

Keep your eyes over the ball. Use SpineAlign with wedge selected.
Use a light relaxed grip and tuck elbows into your sides.
Maintain a quiet lower body.
Stroke the putter with your shoulders instead of your hands.

Distance control is the key to reducing three putts.

Situational Short Game Tips

Different lies require different strategies. When facing thicker rough use more loft and keep the clubface open. For tight lies use a lower lofted club and make a shallow chipping motion. On downhill lies place ball towards right foot, focus on soft hands, and let gravity help the swing. The opposite for uphill lies.

Final Thoughts

The short game is where golfers make real progress. With consistent practice and the fundamentals outlined in this guide you can approach greenside shots with clarity and confidence. To continue improving, explore additional short game articles within our Knowledge Base and download the SpineAlign Golf App for guided practice and detailed lessons inside the Golf Academy.