CHIP AND RUN - KEEP THE SHAFT ANGLE FORWARD
 

When hitting a basic chip and run shot it is helpful to have the shaft of the club tilted slightly forward at set up, so your hands are in front of both the club head and the ball. This promotes a slightly downward strike on the ball at impact, which will help to pop the ball into the air. I think a good reference to help you get into the proper position is to set your hands just far enough forward that the shaft of the club forms a straight line with your left forearm (If you were viewing yourself from a face on position). Or, another reference would be to make the shaft of the club point to your left shoulder joint (again, looking face on).

Now, make the stroke by turning your chest away from, and then back towards, the target, maintaining a nice even tempo to the motion going both directions. You will want to keep your hands “quiet”. This means keeping the shaft of the club pointed at your reference point throughout the backstroke AND the follow through. If your hands try to “flip” the club head at the ball through impact you will find the shaft of the club is no longer pointed at your reference point, but is more than likely pointed at the middle of your body.

Get in the habit of holding your finish position when you complete the stroke so you can take note of where the shaft of the club is pointing. Is it still pointed at your reference point? Great, you are on your way to making better chip shots. If not, keep working at it until you can do it consistently.

Remember, keep that shaft pointed at your reference point throughout the stroke. The key to making a solid chip and run stroke is to return to the impact position with your hands slightly in front of the club head and the ball, the same as they were at address.

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