How to Improve Pitching Technique in Golf
By John Wagner
You typically pitch the ball when you are 15 to 60 yards from the green. Most amateurs struggle with this shot because it is a half-swing shot. That means it requires good technique and some practice. Put in enough practice time, however, and you will be getting the ball up and down in no time.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Set up to the ball and determine your ball position. Ball position varies for each pitch shot. If you need to hit it high, the ball needs to be forward in your stance. The ball needs to be back in your stance for a low shot and in the middle for a straightforward pitch.
Take the club back with a turn of the shoulders. Hinge your wrists up slightly as your club goes back. Keep this motion slow and controlled.
Swing the club back to the halfway point and make sure the toe of the club is pointing up. This will give you the proper loft to get the ball in the air.
Turn through the shot as you come to impact and beyond. Keep your wrists firm as you come through impact. Hit down and through the ball to get the ball up in the air.
Follow through to a halfway position. If you have turned through properly, your belly button should be pointing toward the target.
Tips & Warnings
Place a towel on the green and try to land the ball on the towel. This will teach distance control.
Do not get quick with your tempo. Keep it slow and controlled.
About The Author
John Wagner is a certified golf instructor and professional golfer with over eight years of experience. As a certified GolfTEC and Chuck Cook golf instructor, he has given over 3,000 golf lessons. John writes for GolfLink.com and has over 40 articles published.
