Master the Belly Wedge Technique: Precise Approach Shots from the Rough to Improve Your Golf Game and Avoid Fat or Thin Hits

When you find yourself with a ball stuck at the edge of the rough around the green, neither ideal for a chip nor a putt, there is a little-known but incredibly effective shot: the belly wedge. This technique, used by PGA Tour pros, allows for a clean and controlled roll, avoiding common errors like skulls or topped shots.

In this article, we will see how to execute a perfect belly wedge, when to use it, and how it differs from the Texas Wedge.

🏌️‍♂️ What is the Belly Wedge?

The belly wedge is an approach that consists of striking the ball with the edge of a wedge, precisely at its equator. This technique produces a smooth roll while minimizing the impact of the rough on ball contact.

It is particularly useful when:
✅ The ball is stuck against the edge of the rough around the green.
✅ A classic chip would be risky because of uneven grass.
✅ A putt is complicated due to uneven terrain.

🎯 How to Execute a Perfect Belly Wedge?

This technique may seem unusual, but it is actually simple and reliable, provided you stick to the basics.

1️⃣ Choose the Right Club

➡️ Opt for a wedge: pitching wedge (PW), gap wedge (GW), or sand wedge (SW). These clubs offer a sufficiently thin edge for clean contact.

2️⃣ Adopt the Right Grip and Proper Stance

➡️ Hold the wedge like a putter: neutral grip, hands slightly forward.
➡️ Stand upright, without excessive bending at the waist.

3️⃣ Position the Ball Correctly

➡️ Move the ball slightly back in your stance. This favors clean contact and prevents too much ascending motion.

4️⃣ Make a Putting-Like Stroke

➡️ Perform a movement similar to a putt, maintaining a smooth rhythm without excessive wrist action.

5️⃣ Ensure Clean Contact

➡️ The goal is to strike the ball at its equator with the edge of the wedge, generating an effective roll.

💡 To avoid: don’t try to lift the ball. The belly wedge is a rolling shot, not a chip!

❌ Belly Wedge vs Texas Wedge: Don’t Confuse Them Anymore!

Two approach shots on the ground, two different strategies!

Belly WedgeTexas WedgePlayed with a wedgePlayed with a putterThe edge of the club strikes the ballThe face of the putter is used normallyIdeal when the ball is stuck in the roughIdeal on well-mown fairway or fringeAllows clean contact despite grassFavors a smooth roll on a clean surface

Remember:
✔️ Belly Wedge = Wedge + ball against the rough
✔️ Texas Wedge = Putter + clear surface

If the ground is clear and well-mowed, opt for the Texas Wedge. If the ball is poorly placed against the rough, the Belly Wedge is the best option.

📌 When to Use the Belly Wedge?

The belly wedge is an excellent solution in situations where a chip is too risky and a putt is ineffective.

🏆 Perfect scenarios to use it:

✅ Ball against the rough with a clear rolling zone ahead.
✅ Uneven grass around the green, preventing good contact with a classic wedge.
✅ Delicate position requiring clean contact, without risk of skull or topping.

Why is this shot so effective?
🔹 It reduces the risk of error.
🔹 It allows clean contact even in complicated situations.
🔹 It produces a predictable roll, improving distance control.

Conclusion

The belly wedge is a shot you absolutely must know to handle complex situations around the green. Easy to learn and effective under pressure, it ensures clean contact and controlled roll, where a chip or putt would be too risky.

👉 Add it to your arsenal and test it on the course: it might just save you a few shots and bring you closer to birdie! 🐥

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