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The ONE Short Game Tip That Will Change Your Golf Game

/ The ONE Short Game Tip That Will Change Your Golf Game

The ONE Short Game Tip That Will Change Your Golf Game

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had those days on the course where nothing seems to go right. The fairways feel like minefields, the greens are slicker than you remembered, and your trusty wedge—well, it just isn’t so trusty today. But what if I told you there’s a shot that could rescue you from these golfing disasters, a shot so easy to learn and low-risk that it could save you strokes every round? Enter the Chip Putt, the unsung hero of the short game.

What is the Chip Putt?

You might be thinking, “What on earth is a Chip Putt?” It’s the simplest yet most effective short game shot you probably aren’t using—yet. This technique, often called the “Putt Chip” or the “Chip Putt,” is exactly what it sounds like: a hybrid between a chip and a putt, using your putter instead of a wedge. It’s a shot that you can use from just off the green, in tight lies, or even from the thicker rough.

And here’s the kicker—this shot works because it plays to the strengths of your putter while minimizing the risks of a traditional chip. Unlike a standard chip shot, which can be tricky to control, the Chip Putt relies on the accuracy and consistency of your putting stroke. Plus, it’s dead simple to learn!

Why the Chip Putt Is a Game-Changer

Now, let’s talk about why the Chip Putt is such a game-changer. The short game is where good rounds can turn into great ones—or, unfortunately, where they can fall apart. The beauty of the Chip Putt is that it eliminates many of the common errors that plague amateur golfers when they’re just off the green.

  1. Low Risk, High Reward: The Chip Putt is all about minimizing risk. The motion is very similar to your putting stroke, which you’re already comfortable with. This reduces the chances of chunking or thinning the ball—mistakes that can ruin a good round.
  2. Versatility: Whether you’re dealing with a tight lie or some thick rough, the Chip Putt can handle it all. It’s particularly useful on fast greens or when the grain of the grass is working against you, as it allows you to keep the ball low and rolling towards the hole.
  3. Consistency: Because the Chip Putt relies on your putting stroke, it’s incredibly consistent. You’re using the same muscle memory you’ve developed for putting, which means less room for error.
  4. Confidence Booster: Having the Chip Putt in your arsenal gives you another option when you’re just off the green. Sometimes, knowing that you have a reliable shot to fall back on is all you need to boost your confidence and execute under pressure.

How to Execute the Perfect Chip Putt

So, how do you pull off this magical shot? It’s easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering the Chip Putt:

  1. Setup Like a Chip: Start by setting up as if you were going to chip. Get snug with the ball, place your feet close together, and open your stance slightly. Your body should be a little open towards the target.
  2. Grip It Like a Putt: Maintain your regular putting grip. If you’re a left-hand-low putter like me, stick with that. This isn’t the time to change up your grip—comfort is key!
  3. Ball Position: Position the ball in the middle to slightly back in your stance. This helps you strike the ball cleanly and ensure a smooth roll.
  4. Weight Distribution: Shift a little more weight onto your front foot. This encourages a downward strike, helping the ball pop up slightly before rolling towards the hole.
  5. Deloft the Putter: To give the ball a bit of a “jump start,” deloft the putter just a tad by pressing your hands slightly forward. This will help the ball get airborne for the first few inches, especially useful when you need to get over some fringe or rough.
  6. Chipping Motion: Now, use a simple chipping motion. Let your core drive the movement, and keep your hands leading slightly through impact. It’s essentially a putting stroke with a bit more body engagement.
  7. Practice Makes Perfect: Like any shot in golf, the Chip Putt requires practice. Head to your practice green and work on getting the ball to just hop over the fringe and roll out to the hole. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you get the hang of it!

When to Use the Chip Putt

Knowing when to use the Chip Putt can make all the difference. Here are some situations where it’s the perfect choice:

  • Tight Lies: When the ball is sitting on a tight lie, a traditional chip shot can be tricky. The Chip Putt is a safer option that keeps the ball low and rolling.
  • Into the Grain: If you’re facing an into-the-grain lie, where the grass is growing towards you, it can be tough to get a wedge shot to check up. The Chip Putt eliminates this issue by keeping the ball close to the ground.
  • Fast Greens: On lightning-fast greens, it’s easy to overcook a chip shot. The Chip Putt gives you more control, allowing you to judge the roll better.
  • When Confidence is Low: If your wedge play is shaky on a particular day, or if you’re just not feeling it, the Chip Putt is a great fallback option. It’s all about playing the percentages and giving yourself the best chance to get up and down.

The Physics Behind the Chip Putt

Let’s dive into the science for a moment because understanding why this shot works so well can help you execute it better. The Chip Putt keeps the ball low to the ground, reducing the variables involved in the shot. There’s no need to worry about generating backspin or controlling trajectory as you would with a wedge shot. Instead, you’re using the natural roll of the ball to your advantage.

The slight “jump” you create by delofting the putter helps the ball clear any obstacles like rough or fringe, but once it’s rolling, it’s all about the consistency of your putting stroke. Because putting is a stroke we use far more frequently than chipping, our bodies are more attuned to it, making it easier to replicate under pressure.

Why Your Worst Putt Is Better Than Your Worst Chip

A wise golfer once said, “Your worst putt is always better than your worst chip.” This is the essence of the Chip Putt philosophy. The margin for error is smaller, meaning that even a less-than-perfect Chip Putt will usually leave you in a better position than a poorly executed chip shot.

Let’s face it—when the pressure is on, and the stakes are high, having a reliable shot like the Chip Putt in your bag can make all the difference. It’s about playing smart, minimizing mistakes, and giving yourself the best chance to score.

Putting It All Together

The Chip Putt is more than just a handy trick—it’s a strategy. It’s about thinking creatively on the course, using the tools at your disposal, and making decisions that lower your risk and maximize your rewards. By integrating the Chip Putt into your short game, you’ll find yourself saving strokes, gaining confidence, and maybe even enjoying those tough up-and-downs a little more.

So, the next time you’re just off the green, and your wedge isn’t feeling like your friend, leave it in the bag. Pull out your putter, set up for a Chip Putt, and watch your scores start to drop. Remember, golf is a game of inches, and every stroke counts. With the Chip Putt in your repertoire, you’ll be well on your way to shaving strokes off your game and lowering that handicap.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about improving your short game, the Chip Putt is a must-have shot. It’s simple, effective, and best of all—it works! Give it a try during your next practice session, and see how it feels. You might just find that this little shot becomes your go-to move when the pressure is on.

As always, I’m here to help you become the best golfer you can be. If you enjoyed this tip, be sure to check out my other videos and subscribe to my channel for more great content. And if you’re ready to take your game to the next level, join me at CoachCarolinGolf.com for personalized coaching and a treasure trove of drills and tips designed to make you a better golfer.

Keywords: 

  • Chip Putt
  • Short game golf tips
  • Putter chipping technique
  • Golf tips for tight lies
  • Improve golf scoring
  • Hybrid golf shots
  • Short game consistency
  • Low-risk golf shots
  • Golf shot alternatives
  • Coach Carolin Golf
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