Approach Golf Shots
The Pitch Shot
When you find yourself 50 to
100 yards from the green, you should choose to play a pitch shot using
a
pitching wedge. The pitching wedge is one of the clubs in the
bag which allows you to have alot of control over the ball.
When playing a conventional pitch shot you will need to open your
stance and play the ball off the back foot. The swing should be a full
controlled swing, no half swing trying to whack the ball or hitting
down on the ball with little or no follow through. To regulate the
distance you want the ball to travel move your hands down the grip
closer to the club head. Getting the feel for this comes with time and
practice. Go to the driving range and practice moving your hands up and
down the grip to see the difference in the distance the ball travels.
The Chip Shot
This shot is where you chip the ball up and then let it run onto the hole. The conventional way to play this shot is to place your feet so that the ball is in line with your back foot then most of your weight should be on the left side. There is no need for a full swing here, just go halfway back and then the same with the follow through. The chip shot can be a real shot saver resulting in better scores.
The Flop Shot
This is one of the hardest golf
shots to master. Even the pros on the tour can make a real mess of this
shot. This type of shot requires concentration and good technique. This
is not a shot to be taken on if you have not practised it or don't feel
confident.
To do a flop shot you will require a 60 degree wedge. Place your feet
so that the ball is in line with your back foot. Open your stance
fully. Then with a nice easy full swing hit the ball. If you executed
the shot correctly the ball should fly straight up in the air over the
hazard then land and stop almost immediately.
