Eduardo Romero hits a chip shot during the 2009 Toshiba Senior Classic at Newport Beach Country Club. (Michael Zito/Eclipse Sportswire)

Three basic shots to help you master the short game

By Les Miller,
Contributor

Getting up and down consistently from around the green is critical to improving your golf game, no matter what level of player you are. The three basic shots you need to know are high lob or flop shot, medium pitch and low chips. Master these three short game shots and see that handicap tumble.

Short game tip: The high lob or flop

This shot can seem intimidating for the average player, because it's easy to hit heavy or thin. It's all about proper technique: Start by placing the ball forward in your stance, open the clubface and address the ball with your hands a bit behind it. Next, on the takeaway, break your wrists fully on the backswing and keep your hands slightly behind the ball so they can release through impact.

Short game tip: Medium pitch shot

Place the ball in the middle of your stance and have your hands directly over the ball. Break your wrists slightly on the takeaway as you bring your arms to waist height. From this position feel as though your right hand is throwing a ball underhand to the follow through (right handed golfers).

Short game tip: Low chip shot

For the low pitch shot play the ball off your back toe and allow your hands to lean slightly forward at address. Make a short backswing with little or no wrist hinge and keep the club low to the ground on the follow-through.

March 24, 2009

Les Miller was a longtime Golf Writers of America member who covered golf instruction for several newspapers and golf publications. His many years of experience as a golf professional, director of product development and tour relations for several major golf companies gave him a unique background and ability to help golfers increase their enjoyment of the game.