I'm Scott Pickett, a New Zealand PGA member and coach since 2003. I've had the pleasure of working with golfers of all skill levels, and I know firsthand how improving your chipping can make a huge difference to your overall game. Today, I'm here to share some of my favourite chipping tips that will help you lower your scores and play with more confidence.
Chipping might seem simple, but mastering it is the secret to shaving strokes off your game. Whether you want to up your consistency or simply avoid those nerve-wracking mis-hits, these tips will get you well on your way.
Tip: Make sure your hands lead the way through impact; it’s the key to crisp, dependable chips.
2. Let Your Body Do the Work Want those chips to land softly and stop where you want? Position the ball slightly back in your stance, and keep the swing smooth and controlled. Minimize wrist action—keep them firm and rotate your body through the shot. This way, the ball will pop up gently and roll towards the hole in a controlled manner.
Pro Tip: A steady, easy swing will help the ball settle nicely on the green—it's not about power, it's about finesse.
3. Control Distance with Club Selection Different clubs, different results. To control the roll of your chips, choose the right club for the distance you need. A lofted wedge will stop quickly for shorter shots, while a 9-iron or pitching wedge will roll out more for those longer chips. Spend some time practising with a few different clubs, and you’ll develop a much better sense of how to control your distance.
Tip: Experiment on the practice green—becoming versatile with your club selection is the ticket to becoming a chipping master.
Take these tips out onto the course, and you’ll notice how much easier it is to save strokes and boost your confidence around the green.
Until next time, I hope these drills and tips help you elevate your game. Remember, chipping is all about feel—so keep practising and trust the process.
Stay tuned, and happy golfing!
Cheers,
Scott
