Golf Chipping Tips | How to Chip a Golf ball - Proper Setup

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You can save lots of shots quickly by improving your chipping. By simply getting your setup correct, you can be one of the best chippers you know!

  • Feet about a club head width and a half apart
  • Ball off the inside of the trailing foot
  • 70% of weight on forward foot, hip slightly ahead of NJA
  • Put the hands forward by leaning the shaft about 10 degrees
  • Bend from the hips with no slouching
  • Feet, hips, and shoulders aligned parallel to target line

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Paul
Hi Craig Can you teach me how to chip? I’m yippee but now chip ( good set up ) with the clubhead at an angle 30 to 45 degrees) open like I’m inducing a shank but the leading edge never digs. This is not brilliant but worried I’m on the wrong path literally. Any comments gratefully received.
August 16, 2024
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Paul. I absolutely can teach you how to chip. One of the best parts of my personal game . I am trying to understand your notes so I don't lead you astray. Ideally, could you put a chip video in the Community Forum. That way we can nail it all in one swoop.
August 17, 2024
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Jim
Weaken the grip as in a pitch shot?
October 22, 2022
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. You can certainly weaken the grip. Not required though unless you have a super strong grip in normal situations it may help.
October 23, 2022
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Dave
Should we be keeping the club face more closed at the top of the swing for the chip…. Like the penetrating pitch?
July 5, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. You can allow for some face rotation to help keep it shallow. But, you don't need a ton. Penetrating Wedge will tend to set/stay a bit more closed.
July 5, 2021
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Dave
On ball position for the chip: Chuck states that the ball should be up in the stance. He plays it just behind the lead foot. However, the notes state that the ball should be just forward of the trail foot. Which is correct? A little confused on this? And which muscles are we using to execute the shot?
June 1, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Yes. Up in the stance just inside the lead foot. Same muscles I mentioned on previous posted question. The one thing I will add you will still feel the glutes/legs for feel/weight, but you don't need massive engagement or firing.
June 1, 2021
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Jeffrey
Hey guys, Working on my short game and I've had good success with my chips, pitches (non bunker type shots) by pretty much making a little shoulder turn, and then pulling my lead butt cheek through the shot to move the club... basically squeezing my butt cheeks together... Anyone else doing this or are you doing less with the lower body... I'm talking 5-15 yard shots. -Jeff I know some people like to feel more upper body rotation and keep their legs quiet on little shots but for me, contact seems do much more consistent doing it my way. ..
April 1, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeffrey. You don't want to get too excessive with the legs. But, take a look at Master the Golf Chipping Stroke Video. You may find a little bit of leg work helps with shallow and the feels. Shy away from aggressive post though.
April 1, 2021
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Gary C
How similar are the mechanics of the chipping stroke to the mechanics of a full swing? Do the hips rotate at all as the club moves back? Is the entire stroke more arms dominated and how does this all square with the weight being about 70% on the lead side? Is that just for setup, then weight shifts back as the club moves back and forward as the club moves through impact? I may be overthinking it...
March 1, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. You don't want or need a big weight transfer and squaring of the club should be easy since there won't be a lot of face rotation. you can certainly use your legs. A good example for your questions is displayed in the Master the Golf Chipping Stroke Video.
March 2, 2021
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Kevin
Post impact - head has return near setup - shoulders rock back and right shoulder low
November 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Try to focus on the lead wrist staying a little more neutral/flat at impact. Almost looks like you want to scoop.
November 20, 2020
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Kevin
Top of backswing of chipping motion
November 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. Don't let the weight fall forward going back. Getting out ahead with the head will hurt consistency.
November 20, 2020
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Kevin
My head starts to move left as my arms swing back (counterbalance move I guess) and then tips back to where it was at address after impact - the shoulders rock up and down as well which can cause we to hit behind fat or thin. Any thoughts on the head movement or shoulders? Should the shoulders work in a more rounded way?
November 19, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. Try to mimic more the feeling of shoulder rotation vs up and down. The ball is slightly forward.
November 20, 2020
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gordon
Many thanks for your clarification Craig, - I think I have possibly misled myself, watching too much Bryson deChambeau. Incidentally I am still working on the DEAD drill, but not yet proficient enough to submit to your critical eye! Best regards, Gordon.
April 4, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. Oh noooo. Delete Bryson from memory. I recommend a good single malt for the job .
April 4, 2020
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gordon
Ok Craig, so going further than knee high means weight transfer becomes required and appropriate? Gordon
April 4, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. Once, you start getting above the knees in chipping you are almost making a half swing. I would suggest changing clubs/shots because you will start moving more and adding unnecessary variables like weight/more wrists, etc...
April 4, 2020
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gordon
Thanks Craig, some days I do feel I have 14 bosses in my bag! I take on board your comment and suggestion regarding limiting the swing size and making use of a less lofted club. In your opinion, when chipping (70% preloading and no arm or wrist action) what should be the upper limit of the takeaway extent?i.e. how high should the club head go? Best regards, Gordon.
April 3, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. I wouldn't go above parallel to the ground height. Usually club head around the knee height is max.
April 3, 2020
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gordon
As with most of us, the current pandemic is limiting me to hitting balls around the garden. This intensive chipping practice has exposed a fundamental problem for me, concerning weight distribution. Can you give me some guidance as to the recommended way of setting up with 70% weight on the lead foot without having the head/eyes going too far forward, is a hip bump required(creating axis tilt)? More critically, how should I be maintaining the 70% preloading throughout?, - a SW has a heavy head and there is a natural tendency for weight to move back on the takeaway, the more so the longer the swing. Btw, my experience with practice in the garden is that lavender bushes are much worse than long grass or trees for catching and hiding golf balls! Best regards, Gordon.
April 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gordon. With the narrower stance the hip will be slightly ahead of NJA which will make it easier to get the 70% placement. Weight will move a little, but if you are shifting a lot of weight because the club head is pulling you around then you may be using too big a swing and not moving the club correctly. If you start making larger swings facilitating movement you may need to go to a less lofted wedge. Be the boss of you club, not the other way around.
April 2, 2020
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Tony
Another excellent video.
March 22, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tony. Thanks for the positive feedback.
March 23, 2020
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Charlie
Hi When chipping, are we using the shoulders and arms as opposed to the oblique muscles? Are we having any weight shift, or does the weight stay on the left side? Thx, Charlie..
February 10, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charlie. You will mainly keep the weight on the lead side. There will be some tiny movement of weight, but you aren't looking for a massive weight transfer. You will be using the core (obliques and abs), but it will feel more like you are using the shoulders with very little arm movement.
February 11, 2020
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Matthew
Sorry for all the vids Craig. You had me dying laughing lol thanks for the quick turnaround. I’ve been meaning to submit a few so they all came in at once lol also I didn’t realize you had completed them so quickly, so I double submitted one as I thought it didn’t load properly. Thanks again!
February 6, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. No problem. Just trying to keep things quick and updated as the next two weeks with the clinic will back me up.
February 6, 2020
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Matthew
Craig, Just wanted the video review. You are 100% right. I am so caught in between. It definitely feels that way. I guess in my mind I have 2 shots Chip - I’ll vary club selection depending on how far I want the ball to roll out and I’ll basically use the same stock shot. Pitch - I’ll essentially see what the distance is and how quick I need it to stop once it gets down. Small pitch over bunker etc, use a 58. Longer pitch from maybe 25-30 yards I’ll use a 54/50 and let the ball release more. When setting up for these 2 shots ( chip and pitch ), the basically feels almost identical to me, like a pitch I just a bigger chip. Though I know that is probably not ideal. Just giving some insight. Question - how far out do pitches go yardage wise until it just turns into a wedge shot? Also, I will work on getting a little wider on the pitch stance and more upright with the club. Does the pitch method and setup stay the same but to hit it further you just take a bigger swing? Thanks Craig!
January 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. You will usually see the pitch max out around the 30-40 yard range depending on club/mechanics. Exactly. Slightly bigger swing, or a little bit more club.
January 13, 2020
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Matthew
Hi Craig, On a pitch, is the face typically square, or is it more standard to open the face a little on a stock shot? May just be one of those things where it depends on the specific pitch shot your hitting and what’s required.
January 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. Usually it will be square. It will depend on preferred ball flight, but as you open the face more you would start getting into flop shot territory.
January 13, 2020
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Mohnishkumar
Hi, Craig . I have a bit confusion about long and short game . As , we do weight shift in the long game we have to pull from the left side in the dowmswing . How do we start taking the club down with the chipping do we start from the upper body or should we pull from the left . Thanks
October 22, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mohnishkumar. Still pull from the lead side. It is just a very toned down version of the normal swing and setup.
October 23, 2019
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Rudolf
Hi. Chuck mentioned in the video ball position is instep left foot. The text summary says instep trailing foot. Can you please clarify? should there be some flexibility with ball position depending on intended Ball Flight?
October 6, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rudolf. Lead instep. You can play around a little with the position for flight. But, it will introduce more variables to deal with for consistent strike.
October 6, 2019
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David
Hi all My irons have really improved, but the minute i get between 5 and 40m from the green, my swing gets really quick and i start pushing with the right shoulder. To counter the low left shot i then start holding back, shoulders tilt and the ball goes off to the right or i chunk it. What drills should i do or is it more of an issue between the ears!!?
July 25, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Sadly, it will be a lot in-between the ears. However, start small first and work your way up. Take a look at Master the Golf Chipping Stroke. Get consistent there and then graduate once you can curtail the push.
July 25, 2019
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David
Still working on it. I find i tend to rush/jump from the top of the backswing, but if i don't i make fairly good contact. When i first joined Rotary Swing i was a 22 handicap and getting worse, now i am 17 and hopefully going down further, once the chipping and putting is under control
January 13, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Most players discount how much around the greens makes your golf score better. It not only gets you in the hole quicker, but alleviates some stress on hitting the perfect iron shot into the green. Let’s keep the HDCP trending down.
January 13, 2020
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David
Thanks. I reckon it can save me 10 shots a round. 18 handicap to 8 would be nice.
July 25, 2019
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David
Still working on it. I find i tend to rush/jump from the top of the backswing, but if i don't i make fairly good contact. When i first joined Rotary Swing i was a 22 handicap and getting worse, now i am 17 and hopefully going down further, once the chipping and putting is under control
January 13, 2020
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Kevin
Just a couple questions / comments for clarification 1) are you opening the face slightly to expose the bounce? 2) as I work on this my mishit is hitting behind and dragging the club - this leads to me decelerating into the ball. My sternum / secondary axis tilt is increasing. Any advice on how to keep my sternum more forward and keep it there?
July 24, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. For a basic chip it is unnecessary to really open the face. Take a look at Master the Golf Chipping Stroke for a good drill on how to shy away from that dragging mishit.
July 24, 2019
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charles
Do I stop using a full shoulder turn when I’m not hitting a full shot? If I’m using a wedge from 100 yards do I need a full shoulder turn and what about chipping. Cheers
March 9, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. Typically, when hitting a non-full shot you won't need full rotation. Same with chipping. The shorter the shot the less the rotation. You will rotate, but not as much.
March 9, 2019
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Chris
I’ve read a lot about not breaking your wrist when chipping does rst teach that method?
January 14, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Chris. The wrist should be soft and supple. But, you don't need a big wrist set, or hinge. Minor changes due to momentum and soft wrist. Not active motion.
January 14, 2019
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Dave
On one of the chipping videos Chuck mentioned part of the club being slightly off the ground at set up. I can't seem to find the comment he made. So at set up for chipping is the toe or heel slightly off the ground. Thanks
December 8, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Slightly heel up. Perfect Pitch Shot Setup Video.
December 8, 2018
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richard
when chipping out of tall grass around green , what causes a shrank and how do you prevent it from happening, is it the right hand something to do with it?
November 7, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. Mostly I see throwing the trail hand at the ball too quickly, or coming out of spine angle too soon. If you stay in posture longer and add a little bit more lead control you should correct the issue. Also, make sure you are sliding too much ahead of the ball.
November 7, 2018
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Colin
Are you holding the club square when you swing back or are you letting the club rotate as in a full swing?
September 3, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Colin. You will allow for a little face rotation to help keep the stroke and strike shallow.
September 3, 2018
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Dan
I have a really hard time consistently finding the bottom of my chipping or pitching motion with a consistent strike. The setup and ball placement I am using is right in line with your recommendations. When I fully extend my arms and get away from the ball and allow the club to fully swing with my arms extended, I seem to be more consistent, but it sure feels like I'm standing much further away from the ball than normal.
May 16, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. Take a look at Master the Golf Chipping Stroke. This will help with a consistent bottoming out position.
May 16, 2018
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Joel
You didn’t mention weight balance for the chip shot? Should there be more weight on you front leg?
May 14, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joel. 70% on lead leg and hip slightly ahead of NJA.
May 14, 2018
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Mark
I'm wondering about the chipping backswing. Should it be straight back, more along the line of the target, or should it be a bit more around the body keeping the swing plane shallower?
May 13, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mark. You are still rotating around the spine. It may feel or appear to be straight back. But, there will be a slight arc to it.
May 14, 2018
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James
I do feel that lately there is a lot more time spent on what is done wrong rather than what to do right, which in my mind clouds my brain a bit because of instead of thinking what is good I am also thinking these faults as well as I am recalling what has been shown. I understand the concept to show faults but please spend more time on what to do correctly and not to muddy the teaching too much repetitively showing the problems. Regarding what Chuck is showing correctly, I found it good.
May 13, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello James. Appreciate the response and glad you found the instructional portion helpful.
May 14, 2018
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thiraphong
Hi, I understand that you should have more weight on the left side at set up and keep it constant during the chip shot. In my case, I feel that when I hit a smooth chip shot the weight on my left side increases during the backswing (may be from 70:30 to 80:20) . Do you consider this as normal for a chip shot?
April 3, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Thiraphong. It is somewhat normal to have the sensation that weight increases when you go back. But, you shouldn't notice a big change.
April 3, 2018
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tim
Hi, three questions: Is the chipping stroke all hinge and no wrist cock as you describe? Is there any wrist cock? What is the position of the face when the club is parallel to the ground and down the target line? Does it point straight up like in the normal takeaway? Do you release the club like in the 5 minute release drill? Thanks in advance for your answers.
October 26, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tim. While chipping you shouldn't have a ton of wrist cock. As you alluded to more of a slight hinge of the trail wrist. The club parallel would be slightly shut. But, you don't want to make too big a swing for a chip. I would suggest going up a club to keep the stroke smaller. You don't need to release a stock chip. More of keep the hands ahead of the face and club square.
October 26, 2017
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David
Is there any weight shift, even small. in chipping and pitching?
August 2, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. You really don't need to shift your weight in chipping. You might feel a momentum change. But, it doesn't require a big move.
October 26, 2017
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Tram
I do not understand when it is talk about the flange in the lesson . We need to get a crisp shot every single time but for chipping we need the ball to run more to Tha target than in the pitch shot. At Impact what are the position of the trailing edge. Do the surface of the flange between the leading edge and the bounce should touch the ground like you refer to skimming the water in the bucket. Thank u very much.
July 24, 2017
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Brad
Is it ok to use my putting grip here?
February 14, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brad. You may use a putter grip.
February 14, 2017
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Lee
Hi, states there is a problem with playback? Also, watched videos on take away etc. However, still having issues with getting "good" width in takeaway and post impact. Just feel short.
February 11, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. It is playing properly on my end. If you are still experiencing the problem. Try logging out and back in, or Contact Customer Service. Use the 2 inch hand drill in the Role of the Right Arm to help takeaway width.
February 11, 2017
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Tony
This guy drags out this video with to much details about how people do things wrong. In my opinion it makes what we should be doing less clear.
December 2, 2016
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Benson
agreed. had to really scrub through the vid to the relevant bits. far too much waffling and very hard to concentrate on the important bits. first video i've watched which isnt clear and concise. please do remake this into a 2 to 3 min video with more clarity thanks!
July 11, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Tony, thanks for the feedback. We will work on re-making some of these videos to be a little more clear and to the point.
December 5, 2016
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Anthony
I disagree. I feel it is of great value to see how I have been setting up wrong and what the consequences are i.e.. hitting fat too often. By then introducing the correct set up, enabling a crisp shot, brings everything into perspective.
January 9, 2018
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Ashar
hi i don't know where to write this comment. Today i discovered that at the time of stance for any thing like putting, chipping, full swing if the club head is touching the ball with its natural loft, chip is crisp, putt is controlled and in full swing nice compressed sound. Is it a feeling for today only or something i discovered really.
November 23, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ashar. With regards to putting that sounds on par. The chipping and full swing will tend to have more shaft lean which will decrease the loft. Therefore, giving you a crisp and compressed shot with the club striking the ground after contact.
November 23, 2016
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Frank
I love the squat feeling and the easy increase in club speed. I find it more natural to begin squat in backswing before hip turn. I fell the quads load better and feel I have more time to squat. If I wait until I fire the hips I feel rushed. Is there a downside to beginning squat late in the backswing before the hips turn to square?
October 1, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Frank, yes there is a downside, you can get the arms too far down into the hitting area and you can suffer a loss of power and speed. It is always best to sit left right before the completion of the backswing so that you can sequence properly and allow the lower body to pull the arms properly down into the hitting area.
October 1, 2016
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Donald
On my course (a Donald Ross design), there are several uphill slopes in front of the greens. Frequently, I find that i am faced with a 10-15 yard uphill shot which I either overhit since I am concerned with chunking or chunk it. I have tried to chip and I have tried to pitch but the results are inconsistent. Is there a modification to the chipping stance and and/or technique that I could follow to have more consistent and closer results? Any other suggestions would be most appreciated. Thank you.
July 19, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Donald. Visit the Specialty Shot Section for more info on slope hitting. You will learn the needed setup adjustments.
July 19, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Donald, check to make sure you have your shoulders more tilted up the plane (add axis tilt) to help keep the club from coming in to steep. This will allow the club to swing more up the slop so you stop chunking it. Hope that helps.
July 19, 2016
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Donald
Thanks Chris. That did it!
July 31, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Great to hear Donald!
July 31, 2016
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Frank
I am finding if I keep my elbows relaxed and slightly bent I have much better feel and results. I find this true for short pitches and chips. Is this correct or am I compensating for some other issue?
July 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Frank. The arms staying relaxed is a good thing. I am worried about how much elbow bend though. You could start flipping the arms and hands too much.
July 11, 2016
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David
What is the main reason for a low almost skulled chip shot? Is it the face or path or just not releasing the clubhead? I am a recently new recruit and am enjoying the process
June 15, 2016
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Could be a number if issues. Make sure that you are not over using the right hand as that is generally the culprit. Take a look at this video for some quick tips on how to correct this. If this does not help, send in your chipping technique through the swing reviews on the website and let us take a close look...Hope this helps https://rotaryswing.com/videos/short-game-basics/chipping/fix-my-chipping-three-simple-steps
June 16, 2016
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John
I have a question about a long bump and run shot. I am talking about the kind of shot where you have to go under tree branches - so you can'y fly it to the green. Say you are about 60 yds to the edge of the green and the flag is another 15 yds beyond that. What setup do you use? What kind of swing? What club? Perhaps RST could do a separate video for this kind of specialty shot. Thanks.
May 15, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. I will put that in the suggestion box. In the meantime, take a look at Day 4 Low Trajectory Shots. Will just need to practice different speeds and lengths.
May 16, 2016
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Keith
I didn't notice grip mentioned. I use a putting grip. Is this ideal?
May 5, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Keith. You can use a putter grip. However, it isn't necessary. I still use my standard grip from irons and drivers. Others, like to weaken the grip a touch.
May 5, 2016
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Keith
I am just a couple weeks in following the drill sequences for a complete rebuild, just beginning to practice movements for rotation and takeaway. Would practicing chipping hinder that progress?
April 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Keith. Practicing chipping will not hinder your progress. No worries.
April 16, 2016
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Kyle
I have a question re: the shoulder turn: I assume you turn back using the Rt scapula...What muscle group initiates the forward shoulder turn? do you push the scapula forward or use the left oblique? Thx
March 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kyle. Yes, turn back with the trail scapula. The downward motion will be dominated by the lead arm pulling from the lead lat.
March 30, 2016
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Kyle
Thx
March 30, 2016
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David
I was always taught to choke up on chip shots, especially on the shorter ones. I have not seen any of this in chipping videos. Should I stop doing this?
March 5, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. You may choke up a little if you want for comfort. Not a necessary move, but I do as well because it makes me feel more in control.
March 6, 2016
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David
THANK YOU!
March 6, 2016
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Robert
Do you use your regular grip when chipping, or switch to your putter grip?
March 3, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Using your regular grip will be fine.
March 3, 2016
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Robert
I just got back from chipping practice, using the method I was taught. Opening the stance, squaring the club, back of toe of right foot, very inconsistant. I wish I would have watched this video before I went out. I'll try this tomorrow, it makes more sense to me doing it your way. Thanks. Bob
January 12, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Give it a try Bob. You should see some better results!
January 12, 2016
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Robert
OMG! What a tremendous difference in my chipping today. I hit the ball solidly and got it airborne the way it should. I am absolutely amazed at how I now chip. Playing for 40 years (I'm embarrassed to say this) but I never chipped this well. Thank you so much for all the videos and for answering my questions. Love you guys. Bob
January 14, 2016
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Lee
Can we get a chip shot video from front and DTL uploaded that we can compare ours to in the self analysis tool? That would help a lot. Thanks.
December 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. I will ask the team.
December 30, 2015
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Lee
Thank you.
December 30, 2015
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KARUMBAIAH
The video is not working. Can please check and revert
November 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Karumbaiah. The video is working correctly on our end. Make sure you are using Chrome or Firefox. If the problem persists. Please use the Contact Us Link at the bottom of the page.
November 28, 2015
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laurabeth
How do you hit a low shot from under a tree? Need to keep the ball low. Thx
September 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Laurabeth. Take a look at the 9 Days to Amazing Ball Striking Section. There you will find how to control your trajectory and shot shape.
September 15, 2015
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Anthony
Long winded and learned very little, get to the shot and quit telling me what everyone does wrong and just show us how to do it right! By the end of this video I felt like dropping my subscription.
September 14, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Anthony, sorry that Clay took so long in this video. Have you seen the chipping videos that Chuck has put out? I also just finished up a chipping video that needs to be edited and hopefully released in the next couple of weeks.
September 15, 2015
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gene
So pitching you use the flange and chipping you do not?
June 28, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gene. In chipping you are wanting to maintain the forward shaft lean to get the correct strike. Not a lot of focus on using the flange or offset.
June 29, 2015
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james
all around the greens at my course the grass is 6" high am i setting up different on my chip shot?
June 15, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. With thicker rough around the greens the setup will be the same, but you might need a little more wrist action to get steeper into the ball.
June 15, 2015
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Michael
Do you recommend one club for most chips (like an 8 iron) - different swing speed/length depending on the distance to the pin, or different clubs (7-P) - same swing speed/length regardless of the distance to the pin? Thanks
May 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michale. It all depends. Practicing with one club and using different a different size move will give you some confidence on an all around shot type when green side. However, using a few different clubs with the same stroke will give you different flights and amount of spin. To learn the move stick with one. Once, owned and comfortable. Experiment with some other irons-wedges.
May 9, 2015
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GARY
Hi I am sure that it has been on oversight, could I please get some answers to my questions below. Thank you so much and I am really enjoying your advice.
May 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. We apologize for the late response. The site had a server migration over the weekend which limited our ability to respond promptly to the comments board.
May 8, 2015
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GARY
Hi, thank you for the clear video. I have a couple of questions:- 1) I was taught to grip lower down, however, it seems that Clay is gripping the club at the regular point on the grip. 2) I have watched the other videos on chipping, how would you teach chipping from just off the green, where the flag is close by but you can't putt due to being in rough. What club and what sort of stroke would you use to get the ball up out of the rough but not to roll out too much. Many thanks
May 6, 2015
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GARY
Thank you so much. This is really helpful.
May 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Gary. Some players grip down on the club to stay away from the fat shot and/or have more feel for the head. However, for this type of stroke understanding you need forward shaft lean and lead wrist control it is unnecessary. It can also cause and issue with rounding from the shoulders and not being able to pivot properly. Clay is only about half an inch down on the grip. For the close green side pitch to a tight pin. Take a look in the Wedge Play Section - How to Hit Proper Pitch Shots.
May 8, 2015
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Lee
I saw the question was already answered as far as using your regular grip instead or your putting grip for the chip shot. So if you use your regular grip then do you want it to be a neutral grip or exactly the same as if you were hitting a regular shot? Thanks.
May 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. The normal swing grip will work just fine.
May 4, 2015
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Lee
Hi Craig. So you mean you should have a slightly strong grip (v's pointing to right ear) too just as you would in the full swing? Thanks.
May 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Lee. Trail Hand V towards Trail Shoulder Joint. Lead Hand V In-between neck and shoulder joint.
May 4, 2015
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Lee
Ok, yeah I know the V's point parallel to each other so that is a good thing to make sure is clear to anyone else that is reading. Good point Craig. I was talking about the lead hand V but said V's instead not thinking. Thanks.
May 4, 2015
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andy
Hi there..Just wondering if there is any change to your swing when you move from your irons to your driver? Or is it the same swing but shallower?
April 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Andy. The swing stays the same for iron and driver. However, the setup will differ for the type of strike. Irons you want more of a descending blow. Driver more of an ascending blow. Take a look at the Driver Setup Adjustments Video in the Setup Advanced Section. Also, Driver Launch Angle Video in the Bomb Your Driver Series.
April 27, 2015
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Christer
Hi I notice that when I clicked on Related Articles Why Your Golf Chipping Setup Costs You Strokes under How to Chip in Golf - Proper Setup It does not change to Why Your Golf Chipping Setup Costs You Strokes instead it been the same site How to Chip in Golf - Proper Setup. I also notice that the sound of the videos are not the same. Some videos are not sharp other low and sometimes very dull.
April 9, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Christer -- That related article is just a different name for the same video. Make sure you click the HD button in the bottom right hand side of the video player when you are watching the videos. We are working to update some of the videos on the site as we speak so that the sound and resolution quality are consistent.
April 10, 2015
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Christer
Hi Christopher That was not what I ment. When I click on the link under the headlink you got a new site with a diffrent artical but the same video. It works so on the other sites but this site it doesn´t happen instead it give the same artical and the same link adress.
April 10, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Christe, I understand what you are saying. The article that is written called "why your golf chipping setup costs you strokes" is also the same as the video "how to chip in golf - proper setup" video. The article even though it has a different name is the same as the video in this case.
April 10, 2015
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Arnie
This wasn't mentioned in this set up video: if the ball is farther back than in your usual stance, the club face could be slightly open because the club face naturally rotates open as you swing back, and closes as you swing forward. So would you recommend regripping the club in your hands so that the club face is square to the target line at this ball-farther-back position? My ball strikes are much more crisp after I started chipping like this; or am I simply compensating for something else that may have been resulting in a glancing ball strike?
April 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Arnel. The club needs to be square to the target line when you take your grip to chip. As you place the club on the ground don't rotate the club to square and let the hand position alter. Place the club in the correct spot on the ground aligned to where you would like to chip it and take your grip.
April 8, 2015
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Travis
Hi There, What to do when the green has a steep downhill slope? Using this chipping technique, the ball keeps rolling downhill. Thanks!
March 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Travis. Check these videos out for downhill slopes. Specialty Shots Section - Downhill Lies. Also, Short Game Section - Wedge Play - Downhill Pitch Shot.
March 9, 2015
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john
Even practising chipping I can still shank the ball. What is the basic reason for this?
February 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. Make sure you aren't falling forward towards the toes and/or flipping through with the trail hand. My advise would be upload your chipping stroke to the online review system. One of our instructors would be happy to take a look and find the culprit for good.
February 5, 2015
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Jarek
Not sure if this was addressed, but at what yardage do you change from regular stance to chipping setup stance? And does this happen incrementally or is it an abrupt change at a certain yardage.
December 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jarek. There isn't an exact ideal yardage of when to switch. Usually this setup though is from just off the green.
December 8, 2014
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Jarek
Ok so if Im 40-60 yards out would you recommend a normal swing stance or a chipping stance. Or something in between?
December 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jarek. I would recommend more of a pitching routine. Take a look in this section under Wedge Play. Perfect Pitch Shot Technique and Setup.
December 9, 2014
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Jarek
Excellent Thank You
December 9, 2014
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John
Hi Rotary Swing Gurus, Just to say I was practicing this morning with the chipping set up and technique as described. Absolutely delighted with the outcome. I enjoyed it so much I spent an hour chipping. Unfortunately, a sore elbow as a result. Any thoughts on what I might be doing wrong, too strong/weak a left hand grip??
December 4, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey John -- Glad to hear that you are getting some good results with this technique and sorry to hear that you have some elbow pain at the end of the practice session. Double check the grip for sure and also make sure that there is not a drastic amount of tension in the lead arm or wrist. Any sort of tension down in the hitting area can put some stress on that area and if you are certain that there is no tension there, then work on some left arm only drills as outlined in 5 minutes to a perfect release and see if that helps. If you still experience pain, then let us know and we will take a look at the motion in the swing viewer and further help you.
December 4, 2014
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John
Hi Chris, Thanks, will do.
December 4, 2014
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Mark
I have found that I chip more accurately and more naturally maintain a v shaped alignment after impact if I slightly open my stance at address. For me, the open stance appears to eliminate the inconsistent contact/mis-hits I was having with a parallel stance. I believe that I am using the stroke and rotation around the spine shown in the video. I feel much more comfortable with the slightly open stance. It appears that there are professional advocates of both the open stance and the parallel to target line stance for chipping and pitching. Any serious objection to the slightly open stance?
November 15, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Mark, You'll be more prone to hosel rockets and blading the ball if you use an open stance. You'd be better served learning the proper technique and practicing it until you get it right than to take even longer to learn how to force the wrong way to produce the right results. When you're first learning how to do things the right way, the results aren't important. The results don't become important until you master the new technique. Check out this video, it took me about 5 minutes to learn how to hit a chip shot off of pavement that spun back towards me. http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/short-game/wedge-play/how-to-hit-proper-pitch-shots R.J.
November 15, 2014
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Mark
R.J., Thank you for your feedback. I certainly want to do things the right way without regard to initial results. With respect to chipping, I am replicating Clay Ballard's approach as set forth in his chipping video but have found that I do much better when slightly opening my stance. With respect to an open stance being "the wrong way," I have read that over half the pro golfers on tour open their stance slightly when chipping (don't know if that is really true). One teaching pro states that "..this is especially true for chip shots, as the chipping motion more closely mirrors a putting stroke. To overcome the less aggressive hip turning through impact, ideally we want to set up with an open stance to the target line with our body lines. This ensures open hips through impact, and the result is our arms can swing freely without manipulation to the follow-through position." Additionally, I know that Dave Pelz teaches chipping with an open stance. Thank you for directing me to Chuck's video that teaches a shot very different from Ballard's- chipping approach as set forth in the above video-but clearly a very useful technique. I look forward to practicing this shot.
November 16, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Mark, You're welcome for the video link. If you chip with an open stance there will be less room for your arms to swing underneath your body because the right hip is going to be in the way, thus, you must produce an outside-to-in chipping stroke. An outside-to-in chipping stroke will be reliant on your ability to gauge the perfect amount that the club face has to be open in order to make the ball go straight. If your club face is perpendicular to the path of the club (which is usually the goal) on an outside-to-in path, then you'll pull the chip shot off target. If you open the club face too much, the club will slip under the ball and the ball won't go anywhere and if it does, it'll go right of the target. Chuck's pitching/chipping stroke takes all of the sideways mishit out of the stroke. Therefore, the only things left to worry about is aiming for the right spot and your distance control. We don't putt with an open stance for the same reason why we don't chip with an open stance, we're already starting off line and have to compensate to get back to where we want to be. All of this mularkey about aggressive hip turns for the short game is just unfounded golf instruction pass down through the annals of time based on watching certain pros do things certain ways, which they practiced their entire lives to make the stroke feasible. If you trust the system and let physics do the work for you, you'll be much happier with the results. R.J.
November 17, 2014
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Gerald
I play a course in Florida that has heavy Bermuda rough near the greens. I find when I use this technique, my club slides under the ball and my chips always land short. Do you have any advice for me?
October 19, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Jerry, Yes, practice taking your practice swing brushing across the top of the grass, unless the ball is buried. That way you can perform this drill with the proper technique and not get too far under the ball. Another suggestion that I've come across for heavy Bermuda rough is to use a club that is less lofted. See which works best for you. R.J.
October 20, 2014
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Christian
Good information, but could be told with half of the words.
September 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Christian.
September 25, 2014
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Gary
what is your opinion on a specialist chipper golf club.?
September 2, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Scoring is scoring. If the club helps you go for it. However, I don't know too much a chipper clubs. They do limit the types of shots you can hit. I think that our method of chipping with a wedge in the long run will give you more advantages of controlling spin and roll out.
September 2, 2014
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Chuck
I have a Cleveland Smart Sole Chipper. Where would you suggest the ball position should be and would you use a putting stroke? Thank you.
August 3, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Chuck. I don't know a whole lot about the Smart Sole Chipper. I know it has a very wide sole. Getting it too far ahead might create a bounce effect. However, I think the setup should remain the same. If you get the ball too far back. It restricts the dig. But, the angle of attack would still be the same. Making an in-correct motion and letting the club fix it. The ball should be just on the inside of the foot. If it were in the middle. You would have a tendency to flip at it with the trail side.
August 3, 2014
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Chuck
I have tried boyh the regular grip and the putting grip and the putting grip seems to better. I have been positioning the ball a liitle back of center with pretty good results regardless of the type of ground condition.
August 3, 2014
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wan
position of the head in chipping and pitching: is the left eye at level with the ball or at the back of ball ?
June 20, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Wan. It will tend to be more level.
June 21, 2014
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David
How do you think about hip-bump in the chipping setup? Are there any differences from the full swing setup?
June 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Its just weight displacement. If you bump the hip too far forward it will cause an increase in axis tilt. Think of it like standing straight up and down. If you were standing 50/50 with equal weight distribution. Add weight to the lead leg to make the balance 70/30. Like you were to stand on one leg/foot, but keep the other leg/foot on the ground.
June 11, 2014
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gilberto
I have spent hours trying this method and still cannot pitch the ball. There has got to be an easier way. This is costing me about 15 shoots per game. No matter how I setup the ball, I still hit it thin...
May 17, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Gilberto, check out the follow up video to Clay's Setup Video, the "How to Chip - Perfect Stroke." Make Sure you are getting the Bowed Left Wrist at impact. The back of the glove points at the ground through impact and finishes pointing at the flag. If that doesn't cure the thin shot, feel free to upload your chipping stroke from face on and down the line views to one of our online review instructors through the swing review system. We will be happy to take a look at it for you.
May 18, 2014
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Robert
Two questions: 1. Don't choke up on the club? 2. Is the right leg pretty much straight? Or is it bent a little?
May 15, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
You can choke up on the club a bit for certain shots. Each lie can be a bit different and will dictate this. It is best to work around a chipping green hitting from different locations and lies and developing a feel for what you should be doing with the hands on the grip. The right leg should have a little bit of flex in it.
May 16, 2014
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dean
So on the chip shot you use your regular full swing grip and not the putting grip?
April 30, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Regular grip is correct.
April 30, 2014
1.1 The Most Important Video You'll Watch - Learning 1.2 Introduction to The GOAT Code 1.3 The GOAT Delivery Position (GDP) 1.4 The GOAT Grip 1.5 The GOAT Setup 1.6 GOAT Ball Position 1.7 Trail Hand Putting Drill 1.8 Tiger Woods Tee Drill 1.9 Add Lead Hand to Putting Stroke 1.10 Skills Assessment Challenge: Putting
2.1 Clubface is KING 2.2 Trail Hand Chipping Stroke 2.3 Trail Hand Ripper Chip 2.4 Add Lead Hand to Chipping Stroke 2.5 Progressive Drill to Add Lead Hand 2.6 Add Lead Hand to Ripper Chip 2.7 Skills Assessment Challenge: Chipping
3.1 Transferring Power from the Core to the Hand 3.2 The GOAT Takeaway 3.3 Fundamentals of Compression 3.4 The GOAT Pitch Shot 3.5 Pitch Shot Starting Line Drill 3.6 Skills Assessment Challenge: Pitching
4.1 Core Activation - Chair Drill 4.2 Core Activation - Medicine Ball Throws 4.3 Core Activation - Slam Ball 4.4 Core Activation - Punching Bag Power 4.5 20 Yard Wedge Shot Basics 4.6 Skills Assessment Challenge: 20 Yard Shots 4.7 40 Yard Wedge Shots - The Magic! 4.8 GOAT Power Sequence 4.9 The GOAT Drill 4.10 How to Increase Hand Speed - J Release 4.11 The Importance of the Waggle for Speed 4.12 How the Lead Side Works for Power 4.13 Magic of Supination 4.14 80 Yard Shots - Down the Line 4.15 80 yd Shots - Face On 4.16 Tiger Woods 80 yd Face On Reference Video 4.17 How to Coil Around the Trail Leg 4.18 GOAT Backswing 4.19 Rotation & Footwork 4.20 GOAT Downswing - The Whip Effect 4.21 The GOAT 9 to 3 Drill 4.22 160 yd Shots - GOAT Speed Sequence 4.23 Instant Over the Top Cure
Webinar 1: The Core Webinar 2: Core Power & Putting Webinar 3 - Compression & Clubface Control Webinar 4 - Fascia & Effortless Power Webinar 5: The GOAT Hands Webinar Q-n-A Webinar 1: May 7 Q-n-A Webinar 2: May 14 Q-n-A Webinar 3: May 21 Q-n-A Webinar 4: May 28 Q-n-A Webinar 5: June 4 Q-n-A Webinar 6: June 11 Q-n-A Webinar 7: June 18 Q-n-A Webinar 8: June 25
Is Tiger Woods Golf Swing a Baseball Swing? Pt. 1 of 3 Throw the Club or Push the Club? Pt 2 of 3 Squish the Bug for Effortless Power - Pt 3 of 3 The GOAT Release The GOAT Release Intro - Endless Conveyor Belt GOAT Code Secret to Effortless Power - Pt 1 of 4 GOAT Code Effortless Power - Head Movement - Pt 2 of 4 GOAT Code Effortless Power - Using Your Head - Pt 3 of 4 GOAT Code Effortless Power - Take it to the Course - Pt 4 of 4 Creating Torque in the Swing - Pt 1 of 3 Creating Torque in the Golf Swing - Pt 2 Creating Torque - The Magic Pill for the Feel - Pt 3
The GOAT Code - Ep 1 - How the Hands & Wrist Create Speed The GOAT Code - Ep 2 - How Tour Player Equipment Deals Work The GOAT Code - Ep 3 - 69 yr Old Increases Swing Speed 15 mph in 30 minutes!
Bryan's Journey - Introduction How Bryan's Letting RotarySwing PAY For Itself
Phase 1 - Putting
Bryan's Journey - Trail Hand Putting Bryan's Journey - Trail Hand Putting 2nd Review Bryan's Journey - The Tiger Tee Drill And An Easier Way Bryan's Journey - 2 Handed Putting 1st Review Bryan's Journey - FINAL Two Handed Putting Review Bryan's Journey - Putting Assessment Test
Phase 2 - Chipping
Bryan's Journey - Trail Hand Chipping - Baseline And Hidden Errors Bryan's Journey - Trail Hand Chipping - Improvements And New Errors Bryan's Journey - Two Handed Chipping - Good Stuff Happening Here Bryan's Journey - Chipping Assessment PASSED!
Phase 3 - Pitching
Bryan's Journey - Phase 3 Start - Pitching Bryan's Journey - Phase 3 Pitching - 2nd Review Bryan's Journey - PASSING Pitching Assessment Test
9 Days to AMAZING Ball Striking!
9 Days To Amazing Golf Ball Striking - Intro Day 1: Impact Control Day 2: Hitting Low Shots Day 3: Hitting High Shots Day 4: How to Hit the Draw Day 5: How to Hit the Fade Day 6: High and Low Fade Day 7: High and Low Draw Day 8: How to Shape the Driver Day 9: 9 Ball Shot Shaping Drill
Cheat Sheets for Faster Learning
RSA Introduction My SECRET Consistency Routine How to Shallow the Golf Club Master the Golf Transition Core Rotation - Left Arm - Club - RSA RSA Full Swing Kaboodle RSA Heavy Club Training Program RSA Overspeed Program 9 to 3 Drill Program for RSA RSA Power Release Program
Chuck Quinton Live Lessons
How to Shallow Your Hands During Transition Straighten and Lengthen Your Tee Shots w/ the Driver How Tiger, Rory & Ernie Use Their Hips for Power How to Shallow Your Golf Swing Fast and Easy - Live Lesson Live Lesson - How to Stop Losing Tush Line & Boost Consistency Why Your Lead Leg Doesn't Straighten at Impact Do You Start Backswing w/ Hips or Shoulders? Why You Can't Stop Overusing Your Arms in the Golf Swing Former Mac O'Grady Student Saves Back Learning DEAD Drill How to Fix Your Over the Top Move - Live Lesson Learn What REALLY Matters Most for Effortless Power - Live Lesson Restore the Athleticism in Your Swing Like this Former NFL QB Pro Secret #3 - Swing Easy, Hit Hard The #1 Reason Golfers Are Inconsistent and How to Fix it Permanently Making Your Golf Swing Feel Natural w/ Baseball Drill - Live Lesson How to Add Effortless Power Using Your Lower Body Simple Fix to Make a Full Shoulder Turn How to Fix Trail Leg Straightening in Backswing Live Lesson - How to Fix Your Arms by Fixing Your Legs in the Backswing Should You Restrict Your Hip Turn in the Backswing? 4 Steps to Sequencing the Golf Downswing - Live Lesson How to Decelerate Your Hips for Effortless Power Why You DON'T Pull the Butt of the Club Toward the Ball
GOAT Code Power Program
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