Approach shots in golf can make or break your score — they set you up for birdie chances or force you into damage control. Here are some practical tips to help you dial in your approach game:
1. Know Your Distances (and Trust Them)
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Track your yardages for each club — not just the ideal, but average distances.
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Apps, launch monitors, or even a notebook can help.
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Play your average, not your best-case scenario.
2. Club Up When in Doubt
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Most amateurs come up short — either from misjudging or under-hitting.
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Wind, elevation, and cold weather reduce distance. Take the longer club and swing smooth.
3. Aim for the Safe Side
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Don’t always fire at the pin, especially if it's tucked near trouble (like bunkers or water).
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Aim for the fat side of the green, especially when you’re outside 150 yards.
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Think “center of green is a win” unless you’re in scoring position.
4. Control Your Trajectory
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Lower trajectory = more control and better in wind.
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Use less loft, ball back in stance, hands slightly forward.
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Higher trajectory = softer landings (good for tight pins).
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More loft, ball slightly forward, relaxed wrists.
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5. Watch Your Tempo
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Don’t overswing. Tempo and balance are everything on approach shots.
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Think smooth takeaway and full finish — "swing within yourself" is key.
6. Factor in Green Slope & Spin
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Don’t just aim based on the pin — consider where the ball will land and roll.
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If you generate spin, you can be more aggressive.
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On firm greens, aim for the front and let it release.
7. Practice With a Purpose
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Randomize your practice. Don’t hit 20 balls with a 7-iron to the same target.
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Mix up yardages and shot shapes — like on the course.
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Try the “ladder drill”: hit to 100, 110, 120, etc., with different clubs and trajectories.
Bonus Mental Tip
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Pick a small target. Don’t just aim “at the green” — aim for a tree behind it, a dark spot, or a seat in the stands if you're at a range. Smaller targets = tighter shots.