Beginners Guide To Golf

Hi there,

The impact of the clubhead with the golf ball is the moment of truth for the golf swing. There are three things you need to be aware of when taking a shot. These three things must happen before you are able to hit a true shot on the target-line which flies properly.

1. The centre of the clubface has to impact below the equator of the golf ball.
2. The clubhead’s swing path must be directly along the target-line.
3. The angle of the club-blade has to be square to there target.

Golfers use different variances in their swing but all these swings have the same conclusion on impact. These variances are conducted in a similar way and are needed for a consistent accuracy in the shots. There are also six elements which need to happen in your physical body. See as follows:

1. 80 to 90 % of the weight is on the left foot.
2. The hips are turned approximately 45 degrees.
3. The head is behind the ball.
4. The shoulders are turned left about 15 degrees.
5. The hands are slightly ahead of the ball.
6. The right heel is slightly off the ground.

Similarly to putting, chipping is mainly performed by the muscles in the arms and shoulders. Hands are kept relatively steady and the golfer’s body only slightly moves with the follow through in order to allow release of the club. This movement should be like a pendulum swinging back and forth on a grandfather clock.

There are many different tips and lessons on chipping, but I find these 5 the most effective.

My best five essentials for a good, clean chipping stroke:

1. Minimum air time and maximum ground time. Keep hands in the position when addressing the shot with any club and stance should be slightly ahead of the ball on impact. Handle of all clubs should point slightly to the left of your front hip pocket. Maintain minimum hand and wrist motion through the stroke.

2. Aim for the ball to land roughly 1 yard on the green. Change club accordingly for the difference in Carry to Roll.

The following chart is useful on the average green:

10 % Carry and 90 % Roll = 5 iron
20 % Carry and 80 % Roll = 6 iron
30 % Carry and 70 % Roll = 7 iron
40 % Carry and 60 % Roll = 8 or 9 iron
50 % Carry and 50 % Roll = PW
40 % Carry and <50% Roll = SW

3. Weight should stay mainly on the left foot (right hand golfer) during the chip.

4. Use an open stance to clear the hips on the swing through.

5. Ball should be positioned slightly off the inside of the right foot (right hand golfer).