Short Game Advice From the Master Himself

For amateur golfers who can’t find the time to keep their games sharp, the short game is the first thing to go and the last thing to come back. Here are a few basic tips from the master himself, Phil Mickelson (and his flip-flops), on how to chip properly. You, and everyone else, would be smart to listen closely. 

1. Keep your weight on your front foot

 

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Turns out very few people know about the short game, which is something I’ve always assumed to be common knowledge. Using social media as a platform, I will share tips about the 3 basic essentials of any short game. Over time I will post about all the nuances to hit every shot under any circumstance. Let’s make 2019 an “up and down” year!

A post shared by Phil Mickelson (@philmickelson) on Dec 19, 2018 at 1:26pm PST

2. Make a decision: low or high?

 

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The first fundamental of chipping is putting your weight on your front foot. It’s pretty easy. The second fundamental requires figuring out what type of shot is necessary and making a decision. 🤔🤔🤔

A post shared by Phil Mickelson (@philmickelson) on Dec 21, 2018 at 8:48am PST

3. Keep your hands ahead of the clubface

 

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Here is the third fundamental of chipping. It’s important to get these fundamentals ingrained in your technique, all of the nuances and shots that I will discuss next depend on these. In future posts, I will discuss the exact weight distribution, lie assessment, bounce on the wedge, bunker play, etc. You will require these three things to get your short game dialed in. I’ve reviewed your questions and will address some of them soon!

A post shared by Phil Mickelson (@philmickelson) on Dec 22, 2018 at 1:02pm PST

If many of us could chip even half as well as Lefty, our games would improve drastically. Practicing these simple tips and getting them engrained into our techniques is a great way to prepare for the season ahead.

Colorado AvidGolfer Magazine is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it, publishing eight issues annually and proudly delivering daily content via coloradoavidgolfer.com.

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