6 Drills To Master Short Game

Golf is a game of precision, patience, and skill, and few aspects of the game require more finesse and control than the short game. The short game encompasses all shots played from close range, including putting, chipping, and pitching. It's often said that the short game separates the amateurs from the pros, as a strong short game can salvage a round when the long game falters. To help you elevate your short game to the next level, we've compiled a list of the best short game drills that will undoubtedly enhance your skills and confidence on the greens.

1. Clock Drill for Putting Precision

The clock drill is a classic technique that aids in developing consistent putting skills. Set up four to six balls around the hole at equal distances, like the hours on a clock face. Start with the closest distance and work your way outward. Focus on your setup, alignment, and stroke. This drill not only improves your accuracy but also trains your ability to control the speed of the putt, which is essential for sinking those crucial short putts.

2. One-Handed Chipping for Touch and Feel

Chipping is all about touch and feel, and one-handed chipping is an effective drill to cultivate these skills. Begin by chipping with just your trailing hand (the hand that's farthest from the target). This forces you to use your body and hand coordination to control the clubhead and judge the distance of your shots. As you switch hands, you'll notice a remarkable improvement in your ability to control the trajectory and distance of your chips, leading to more consistent results.

3. Pitching to Different Targets

Pitching involves shots that require a bit more distance than chipping, but less than a full swing. To master pitching, set up targets at varying distances and angles from your starting point. This could include different flagsticks, towels, or cones. Practice hitting pitch shots to these different targets, focusing on your setup, backswing, and follow-through. This drill hones your ability to adjust your swing length and loft to match the desired distance, ultimately giving you better control over your pitch shots.

4. Bunker Play from Different Lies

Bunker shots can be intimidating, but they are an integral part of the short game. To improve your bunker play, practice hitting shots from various lies in the sand. Experiment with different stances, ball positions, and swing lengths. This drill helps you build confidence in your ability to get out of bunkers under different conditions, enhancing your overall short game performance.

5. Pressure Putting for Mental Toughness

The short game isn't just about physical skill; it's also about mental fortitude. Create pressure scenarios for yourself on the practice putting green. Set up a series of putts with consequences – for example, if you miss, you have to start over from a certain distance. This drill simulates the pressure you might feel on the course and trains you to maintain focus and composure when faced with challenging putts.

6. Random Distance Chipping Challenge

Improvisation is a valuable skill in golf, and the random distance chipping challenge helps you sharpen it. Have a friend call out random distances, and then you have to chip to those distances. This drill improves your ability to adjust quickly and make decisions based on the lie and distance, making your short game more versatile and adaptable on the course.

Mastering the short game is essential for any golfer looking to improve their scores and overall performance. These drills provide a comprehensive approach to honing your putting, chipping, and pitching skills while simultaneously enhancing your mental resilience and adaptability. Incorporating these drills into your practice routine can undoubtedly lead to a more well-rounded and successful short game, ultimately contributing to a lower handicap and more enjoyable rounds on the golf course.