Chip Shot Tips on the Fernandina Golf Update

The chip shot uses the same shoulder movements as the putting stroke but now we add a little weight shift to increase our distance.

I knew the weather would get back to normal. Last week the north-eastern sea board states got snow, so Fernandina Beach got cool cloudy days with a few showers. Not a bad trade off, but the last few days it has been warm again and great for golf, not too hot and not too cold! The winter seed program is beginning to take root with most of the golf courses around the area. Putting surfaces may be slower than normal but they should be smoother and quicker in a couple of weeks once the grass becomes more established.

Have you been working on your golf game? Last week we talked about the putting stroke so this week we will explore the chip shot. Remember the shoulders around the spine? Remember! The chip shot uses the same shoulder movements as the putting stroke but now we add a little weight shift to increase our distance. This can be tricky because timing is most important. This shot has little loft and stays low with more roll. The weight shift should be created with the feet and good balance be used throughout the stroke. Try not to use the knees and hips to shift your weight. This can change the spine angle and create a reverse weight shift. This is, like the putting stroke, a mechanical stroke moving only the feet to shift the weight and the shoulders to swing the club. It’s simple, only two parts. Practice this for a while and next week we will put a few angles in the swing with the pitch shot or half swing.

If you have any questions regarding golf instruction and play around the area, call the pros at Fernandina Beach Golf Club. The public is welcome and check out the web site www.fernandinabeachgolfclub.com for great deals on golf and more. FBGS is a great place for breakfast and lunch with banquet facilities for parties up to 120 or more.

Come and play a round with us.