[EdZ]

I have trouble controlling distances in my short game. Generally, I use my sand wedge for chips just off the green and for short pitches. To alter my distance, would you suggest altering the length of my backswing, increasing the degree or speed of the pivot, or using different clubs, such as my pitching wedge or 9-iron? By the way, I am a swinger, or at least I'm trying to be one. Thank you.

teach

One of the best ways to increase your margin for error in distance control is to 'shorten the lever' - grip down to the steel.

This simple adjustment not only allows you to use a larger motion, but with less force and more margin, it has the added benefit of being on a more upright plane angle for better directional control.


Learning to use one club for different trajectories/lies is a very useful endevor. That said, it is generally easier for most to switch to lower lofted clubs. Whichever club will fly the ball 1/3 of the total green available, and run out the rest.

One bit of Pelz that I find very useful - "avoid humps and aim for dips" - this gives you better margin too.