How to Chip It Crisp From Any Lie

In this instructional golf video, Mitchell Spearman explains how to chip off of a tight lie

Chipping the ball crisply from various lies around the green is a crucial skill in golf. Here's a guide to help you improve your chipping technique from different lies

Assess the Lie

Before you even address the ball, evaluate the lie. Is the ball sitting down in the rough, sitting on top of the grass, or in a tight lie? Understanding the lie will help you select the appropriate club and shot.

Choose the Right Club

For most chip shots, a pitching wedge, gap wedge, sand wedge, or a specialized chipping wedge can be effective. Choose a club that will allow you to clear any obstacles and control the distance.

Ball Position and Stance

Place the ball in the center or slightly back in your stance, closer to your right foot (for right-handed golfers).

Set up with a slightly open stance to encourage an outside-to-inside swing path.

Weight Distribution

Shift your weight slightly onto your front foot (left foot for right-handed golfers) to encourage a descending strike.

Keep Hands Ahead

Position your hands ahead of the ball at address and maintain this forward hand position through impact.

Minimize Wrist Action

Use a putting-style grip with minimal wrist hinge. This promotes a more controlled and consistent stroke.

Narrow Swing Arc

Focus on making a shorter and controlled swing. Your backswing and follow-through should be relatively equal in length.

Focus on the Target

Pick a spot on the green where you want the ball to land and focus on that spot throughout your swing.

Smooth Acceleration

Maintain a smooth and controlled tempo. Accelerate through the ball and into your follow-through.

Practice Different Lies

Practice chipping from various lies to become comfortable and adaptable. Work on uphill lies, downhill lies, and lies in rough or tight grass.

Experiment with Shot Techniques

Depending on the lie and the distance to the hole, you can use different techniques, such as a bump-and-run, a pitch shot, or a flop shot. Experiment to find what works best for you.

Visualization

Before you hit the shot, visualize the trajectory and roll of the ball. Imagine the shot you want to execute.

Stay Relaxed

Chipping is about touch and finesse. Stay relaxed and avoid tension in your hands and arms.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Regular practice is essential to improving your chipping skills. Set up a chipping area at the practice range or in your backyard to work on different lies and shots.

Consistent practice and experimentation will help you develop a confident and reliable chipping game. As you become more comfortable with various lies and shot techniques, you'll be able to chip the ball crisply from any situation around the green.

SPORTS

"How to Chip It Crisp From Any Lie"