Your short game gives you countless opportunities to turn a good round into an even better one.
Chipping, pitching, bunker play, and touch around the green all require a combination of technique, imagination, and confidence.
With focused practice and a clear approach, golfers can develop a short game they feel comfortable relying on.
Start With a Consistent Setup
A repeatable short-game setup makes it easier to control contact and distance.
Depending on the type of shot, your setup may involve adjustments to:
- Stance width
- Ball position
- Weight distribution
- Club selection
- Handle position
- Posture
The objective is to create a setup that supports the shot you are trying to play.
Choose the Right Shot
A good short game is not based on playing one shot from every situation.
Golfers benefit from learning several options.
Around the green, you might choose between:
- A low chip
- A higher pitch
- A bump-and-run
- A bunker shot
- A specialty shot when needed
Your lie, landing area, green slope, and distance to the hole can all influence the choice.
Pick a Landing Spot
Instead of focusing only on the flag, choose where you want the ball to land.
This gives the shot a more precise objective.
Once you select a landing point, you can decide:
- How high the shot should fly
- How much it should roll
- Which club best supports that trajectory
This approach can simplify decision-making around the green.
Develop Distance Control
Distance control is essential for both pitching and chipping.
Practice shots to several distances rather than repeatedly hitting from the same spot.
For example, create landing targets at different intervals and try to finish the ball within a selected area.
This helps build feel while giving your practice a measurable objective.
Use Different Clubs
Becoming comfortable with multiple clubs gives you more options.
Depending on the situation, golfers may use:
- Wedges
- Short irons
- Mid-irons
- Hybrids
- Specialty wedges
Experimenting under the guidance of a coach can help you understand which clubs and trajectories best suit different situations.
Practice From Realistic Lies
The golf course provides variety, so your practice should too.
Work from:
- Tight lies
- Light rough
- Deeper grass
- Uphill lies
- Downhill lies
- Bunkers
Learning how the ball reacts from different conditions can make you more adaptable on the course.
Add Pressure to Practice
Once your technique feels comfortable, turn practice into a challenge.
For example:
- Try to get three consecutive chips inside a target zone.
- Play nine short-game holes and keep score.
- Alternate targets after every shot.
- Finish each chip or pitch by putting out.
This creates a stronger connection between practice and actual play.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I practice my short game?
The ideal amount depends on your goals, but including short-game work consistently can help develop touch and confidence.
Should I use one wedge for every shot?
Different clubs and trajectories can be useful. Learning several options gives you greater versatility.
Can short-game lessons help experienced golfers?
Yes. Even skilled golfers can benefit from improved technique, shot selection, and distance control.
Should I practice chipping and putting together?
Combining them can simulate the way you play around the green during a round.
Turn Your Short Game Into a Strength
Improving around the green can make golf more rewarding and give you more options during every round.
Elite Golf Schools of Arizona provides personalized coaching that helps players understand technique, shot selection, and effective practice.
Ready to sharpen your short game? Work with an Elite Golf coach and develop the skills and confidence to perform around the green.
