How to properly set up 3 key shots for the short game

When it comes to finding success in the short game, the first thing you need to know is that each shot is created differently – so you have to make a few adjustments to hit what you want.

For example, if you are forced to hit a flop shot that produces a high trajectory and stays low, how would your setup differ from a regular pitch or chip shot that stays low and rolls? For many novice golfers, the answer can be difficult.

Not only do you need to think about grip changes (like compression), but you have to worry about the angle of attack, the length of both your backswing and follow through, and where your landing spot should be.

But none of this matters if your setup is a disaster, because, frankly, that will determine whether you communicate or not.

With a few different short game shots at your disposal, GOLF Top 100 instructor Cameron McCormick wants to help you improve. In the video below, McCormick provides a “cheat code” that shows the setup differences for three of the game’s most popular shots – the chip, pitch and flop shot.

Use this ‘cheat code’ to hit different types of short game shots

“Here’s your cheat code for better chips, pitches, and softer shots,” McCormick says at the start of the video.

But instead of suggesting all kinds of swing adjustments for these short game shots, McCormick focuses on the setup — specifically the width of your feet, the position of the ball, and how your weight should be on each. Take a look below to see his tips.

Chip shots

When playing in the short game, you’ll need to control both your backswing and follow through — since it’s not a full swing. Keeping your feet together will help ensure that you do this correctly, while allowing you to turn your upper body in the direction it is aimed as you experience impact.

“Hit the area there outside your feet are no wider than 10 inches, and the ball is right of center,” McCormick said.

Pitch shots

When making a pitch shot, using a lean stance that’s about shoulder width apart is clutch, as this helps control both the distance and trajectory of your shot. It also adds some insurance against skulling or chunking.

“The pitch should be 10 inches between the inside on the foot, with the ball centered,” instructed McCormick.

Flop shots

For flop shots, you’ll want to use a wider stance to help keep your lower body still during the swing. Doing this also adds loft to the clubface – which is necessary to keep it open to produce the necessary ball flight.

“Let’s go 20 inches to the middle of your center, and put the ball a little bit forward in the middle of our feet,” McCormick added. “But now change your chest [just slightly forward] in the middle, use the high face, and open it.”

Now that you know the setup differences between the game’s three popular shots, be sure to apply the tips during your next round and watch better results appear in no time.

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