One-Handed Chipping

Amateur players tend to flub chips a lot, but it’s impossible to scoop reliably with only one hand.

Amateur players tend to flub chips a lot. When they should be getting up and down, instead they’re taking three or even more shots to get down from just off the green. Many amateurs flub their chips because they break down their wrists and attempt to scoop the ball.

Hinging your wrist going back is fine, but through the ball you want firm, solid wrists that don’t have a lot of break in them. To ingrain the feeling, practice hitting your chips with only your left hand on the club. Just stick your right hand in your pocket.

This drill is tough at first, but as you go on you’ll be forced to develop a solid wrist at impact or you’ll see all manner of bad shots. It’s impossible to scoop reliably with only one hand: only a firm wrist through impact will lead to good shots.

4 thoughts on “One-Handed Chipping”

  1. Well, what do you know. I just left a comment over at badgolf to try putting practice with his left hand, adding his right hand later.

  2. I too used to be an above avg chipper. Now I am below avg. It’s really pissing me off. went from a 6 to a 12 Hcp. What i have found effective is using my RIGHT hand not my left.
    Interesting. It works for me at the moment.
    Ken, in Ont. Canada

  3. I also have started chipping with just the right hand on the club and it has been a revelation! As stated, it totally removes the ability to scoop at the ball. Goodbye chipping yips!

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