struggling with half swings

[carpediem4300]

you know, the type where i want to chip it like 20-30 yards, i just keep on skulling it or hitting fat, i really cant get the right feel for this swing, it seems all or nothing

i can do a relaxed full swing and knock 10-15 yards off most clubs, but the 3/4 - 2/4 swing just doesnt work for me :(

any ideas on good drills?

[bkoguy07]

I used to decelerate pretty hardcore with halfswings.  Have you tried mentally swinging THROUGH the ball even though you take a half swing?  That usually helps me.  I just try to accelerate the clubhead through the ball and not worry about the distance because the halfswing really helps with the distance so just don't worry about it really taking off.

[carpediem4300]

yeah ive tried almost everything (except the right thing it appears)

i jsut seem to struggle with the mechanics, making a full swing feels easy, even initiation a half swing feels odd and out of sorts

ive found a few online tips, im wondering if my stance is to wide and ive forgotten to correct it from my normal irons stance?

[tomvk77]

I totaly agree on this one.

But the stands can do wonders also,

I personaly stand a little open at adress for these shots

[poser]

You could always try phil's hinge and hold technique.

[carpediem4300]

tried that poser, felt even weirder lol and ended up trying to scoop the ball almost

Tom - i usually have an open stance on most shots as a cure for me constantly aiming wide right and then pushing shots further right

[rustyredcab]

I have more success when I feel athletic (slight weight shift to avoid a hands-only swing) on a very short backswing and a 2-times as long follow-through. I want to keep a good tempo (for me that feels slow) and get through the ball. A choked up club and a solid follow-through are working. Ball off back foot. Feet 15* open. Shoulders square. Keep my trail elbow tight on the backswing and my lead elbow out on the follow-through. Keep the left arm straight to help make solid contact. Hands lead the club-head. There's my check-list. Good luck.

[carpediem4300]

cheers rusty, off to the chipping greens and bunkers tonight to work on things, my bunker play is atrocious so will start on that, then work on pitching

thats if i get past the birmingham riots first lol

[rustyredcab]

Consider starting with chipping, then bunker and other work. My pros tell me that chipping is the best way to practice correct contact with hands leading. They recommend beginning every session with chip shots before moving to other swings, including full swings.

[applejr]

Originally Posted by carpediem4300

cheers rusty, off to the chipping greens and bunkers tonight to work on things, my bunker play is atrocious so will start on that, then work on pitching

thats if i get past the birmingham riots first lol

In Dave Pelz' short game bible, he stresses a full finish, even on 1/2 shots. It may look/feel weird, but it has helped me make sure i don't decelerate into the ball. Give it a try.

[carpediem4300]

cheers guys, got evacuated from work due to the riots so off for an evening round :D

[saevel25]

Use your body, i see most people hit half shots with just arms. I personally like Utley's book, were you pivot around your front foot.

[rustyredcab]

Hope the riots end soon and safely. Looks bad on the news over here.

[carpediem4300]

cheers guys

shot 89, first time of ever breaking 90, but it certainly wasnt due to my chipping!!!

I hit a few good ones, but struggled for good contact as the fairways were so solid i was just catching everything fat...

bunker play was noticeably better and improved though