Use Your Body, Not Just Hands in Chipping

Use Your Body, Not Just Hands in Chipping is one of the most effective tips for improving your short game. Here's why it matters — and how to do it right:

The Problem with Just Using Your Hands

• Leads to inconsistent contact — thin or fat shots

• Makes distance control difficult

• Encourages wrist flipping, which can add loft or reduce it unpredictably

How to Engage Your Body in the Chip Shot

1. Set Up with a Slightly Open Stance
   Weight slightly forward, ball positioned back or center depending on shot type.

2. Keep Hands Quiet
   Lock your wrists and think of the arms, shoulders, and torso moving as a unit — like a putting stroke.

3. Rotate the Chest Through Impact
   Let your chest face the target as you finish. This helps maintain tempo and keeps the clubface square.

4. Stay Down and Balanced
   Avoid rising early or over-swinging — let the body guide a smooth, short motion.

Drill: Towel Under Arms

Place a small towel or headcover under both armpits and make chip shots without letting it drop. This encourages arm-body connection and discourages using only your hands.

Mastering this technique builds a repeatable, reliable chipping motion — crucial for lowering scores around the green.