After teaching many women over many years, I have noticed that the same short game problems come up time and time again. In many cases, these challenges stem from common root causes—such as equipment that doesn’t fit properly or instructions aimed at players with higher head velocities. Too often, women are simply given the wrong information.
Here are some common examples I’ve seen and how to improve them.
1. Very little bounce on raised wedges
Players with lower head speeds often benefit from more bounce (usually 12 degrees or more), so the club can slide instead of digging into the ground. This allows the club to move smoothly through the ground and still deliver strong results, even if it contacts the ground in front of the ball.
I often compare this to a rock going through water. As long as the bounce interacts with the ground properly, it can help save shots from less than perfect contact. Tools like Ping’s wedge mounting system can be very helpful in identifying the right wedge and bounce for your game.
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2. Opening the club site in the bunkers
Many women are told to open the club face on bunker shots. While this may be effective for players with high club speed, it often does not apply to most women.
When the face opens, some players struggle to generate enough distance, leaving the ball stuck in the bunker. Instead, try to keep the clubface square, playing the ball slightly forward in your stance and letting the bounce do the work. This approach can help you produce enough carries to consistently break out.
3. Attempting to ‘raise’ the ball on a field goal
The instinct to grab or lift the ball often comes from other sports, but it doesn’t work in golf. The loft of the club is designed to carry the ball in the air. You don’t need to help him.
From a strong stance, focus on extending your arms down through impact so that the clubhead reaches the ground. A soft “hit” on the ground ensures proper contact and allows the ball to release naturally.
4. Choosing a shot instead of a hit and run
Shorter and simpler strokes are generally more reliable and less dangerous. Just because you’re close to the green doesn’t mean you should automatically reach for a sand wedge and make a bigger swing.
or lower trajectory collision it’s often the smartest play, helping you control distance and reduce risk as you get the ball closer to the hole.
5. Misunderstanding the rush to put
Golfers are often told they “slowed down” when a putt comes up short, but that’s rarely the real issue. If your backswing length is adequate and you allow the putter to swing naturally, the ball will usually travel the correct distance.
