Master Rolled Shots Around the Green: Techniques, Exercises, and Strategic Tips Using 8-Iron, 9-Iron, and Pitching Wedge for Consistent, Error-Free Play

Among the most underestimated yet incredibly effective shots in golf, chip shots deserve a special place. If you’ve ever seen your lob shots turn into a nightmare, this simple and reliable technique might just become your best ally.

In this article, discover how to master chip shots to gain consistency and reduce errors near the green.

Why adopt chip shots?

The chip shot involves making the ball fly just enough to clear immediate obstacles, then roll gently toward the hole. Unlike lob shots, it offers several advantages:

• Less risk of error: A reduced swing range decreases the chances of hitting fat or thin shots.
• Ease of execution: It resembles putting, a motion already familiar to many players.
• Versatility: It helps avoid traps like thick grass or bunkers near the green.

Technique: the fundamentals of a successful chip shot

1. Choosing the right club

The chip shot is performed with clubs having a closed loft, such as:

• 8-iron
• 9-iron
• Pitching wedge

These clubs allow for a low and rolling launch, ideal for stable and predictable trajectories.

2. The perfect posture

Here’s how to adopt an ideal position for this shot:

1. Short grip hold: This improves club control.
2. Position close to the ball: Keep the club slightly tilted forward.
3. Balanced weight distribution (50/50): This ensures optimal stability.
4. Smooth pendulum movement: Imitate the motion of a putt, without forcing or slowing the swing.

The secret? Let the club glide over the grass at impact without trying to "scoop" the ball.

Exercise to improve your chip shots

To master this technique, here’s a simple exercise to include in your training sessions:

The circle exercise around the flag

1. Place a ball about 5 meters from the green.
2. Define a circular area around the hole (about 1 meter radius).
3. Try rolling the ball into this circle using a 9-iron or pitching wedge.

Exercise objectives

• Learn to manage shot power.
• Work on accuracy and consistency.
• Observe how the ball reacts depending on the terrain and chosen club.

Repeat this exercise at different distances to get used to adjusting your stroke.

Strategy: finding the right balance between routine and flexibility

Some golfers prefer using a single club for all their chip shots, which simplifies their routine. Others adjust their choice depending on distance and playing conditions.

Two strategic approaches

1. Single-routine with one club
   • Advantage: Fewer variables to manage, therefore more consistency.
   • Disadvantage: Less flexibility for very long or very short distances.
2. Club selection based on distance
   • Advantage: Allows adaptation to the specific needs of each shot.
   • Disadvantage: Requires more practice to master multiple clubs.

Whatever your preference, the key to success lies in repetition and simplicity.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

1. Trying to lift the ball
   • Problem: This often leads to fat or thin shots.
   • Solution: Trust the club’s mechanics to generate the necessary flight.
2. Excessive swing amplitude
   • Problem: A too-large swing complicates distance control.
   • Solution: Keep it compact, like for a putt.
3. Poor weight distribution
   • Problem: Imbalance can disrupt your accuracy.
   • Solution: Keep your weight evenly distributed on each foot.

When to use a chip shot?

The chip shot is ideal in several situations:

• On a clear green with few obstacles: Maximize simplicity and consistency.
• Near the edge of the green: Avoid unnecessary risks with a lob shot.
• When you need consistency to save par: Less spectacular but much more effective.

Conclusion: chip shots, a skill to master

Chip shots are a simple yet incredibly effective technique to improve your performance around the green. By choosing the right club, adopting the proper posture, and repeating your motions, you will gain confidence and consistency.

Next time you find yourself near the green, set aside risky lob shots and try the chip shot. You’ll be surprised by the results!