Every rec player wants to hit it take a jump and stop in one currency.
Good news: It’s easier than it looks. The key is the combination of an open front with a downward angle of attack, and both are achievable with a few simple set-up adjustments.
Start by grabbing your highest wedge and positioning the ball slightly forward in your stance, just below your leading eye. To promote a steeper angle of attack, use a modified grip: Place all five fingers of your trail hand on the stick, then place the index finger of your lead hand over the pinky finger of your trail hand to create a reverse overlap. Finally, rotate your trail hand slightly at the top of the grip to encourage a more descending angle of attack.
From there, make an up and down chipping motion and focus on hitting the back of the ball cleanly. Done correctly, the ball will quickly be controlled and stopped—just like it does for the pros.
Jeff Smith is director of instruction at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, Calif., and Pine Canyon Golf Club, in Flagstaff, Ariz.
