Lower Your Handicap With These Chipping and Pitching Golf Tips

The fastest way to lower your golf score is by improving your short game around the green. Two key elements of the short game are chipping and putting. Regardless of your golf handicap, with the proper technique and a little practice you will be able to shave strokes off your golf score. Before we address the chipping and pitching tips that I will be giving you I want to address the topic of balancing your practice time between the short and long game.

Because I play a number of golf tournaments, I spend a significant amount of time on the range in preparation for each tournament. My current USGA handicap is 1.6 which I consistently maintain over the course of a golf season. I learned long ago that it was necessary to devote 50% of my practice time to the short game. This is the part of my game that allows me to score even when I am having an average ball striking day.

So often when I am practicing I see the majority of golfers spending approximately 80-90% of their practice time hitting longer golf shots especially the driver. While straight drives and accurate irons are a necessity the best way to save shots on the golf course is by improving your chipping and pitching of the golf ball. So when you start using my short game tips please devote a minimum of 50% of your practice time to your chipping and pitching.

OK, let us get started with improving your golf score with four shot saving chipping and pitching golf tips:

Low Running Chip - If you have an uphill chip with lots of green to work with you want to hit a low running chip. You can use various irons for this shot but in this example lets use an 8-iron. Position the ball forward in your stance, have minimum arm swing in the takeaway and use a slight hinging of the wrists. Simply move your hands toward the target on the forward swing. Keep your club moving low into the follow-through. The ball will come off with little spin and a significant amount of roll. This shot works well for a back pin position.

Biting Chip - If you are chipping on a firm green or downhill you need to have a shot that will stop the ball quickly. Use your 56 or 60 degree wedge for this shot and position the ball off the big toe of your back foot. Take a steep backswing and abruptly hinge your wrists. The forward swing should also be steep with your hands leading the clubhead. Strike down sharply into the back of the ball and it will come out low with backspin.

Having both of these chipping techniques in your bag will allow to play both a low running chip and one that bites when you need to stop your ball quickly.

Low Pitch Shot - This shot can be used from various yardages but for this example assume a 50 yard shot. The shot works well for a back pin position or one located on a top tier. To execute this pitch shot that lands and then runs to the hole position the ball in the middle of your stance with a square clubface. Take a short crisp backswing and hinge your wrists. Then make an aggressive downswing with your hands well ahead of the ball through impact and keep a short follow-through. This chipping technique will help you get up and down more consistently inside 70 yards.

High Pitch Shot - This shot is vital when you have a chip you need to carry all the way to the hole. Start by opening the face of your 56 or 60 degree wedge. Play the ball off the instep of your front foot. Swing your arms back farther and hinge your wrists more then on a low pitch shot. Now here is the key to this shot. Swing down aggressively making sure you accelerate through impact. Maintain a high follow-through which will ensure extra loft and backspin.

The next step is for you to get out and practice these chipping and pitching techniques. Do not be afraid to use these shots on the course and you will immediately start shaving strokes off your golf score. Wishing you happy golfing and lower scores.

GolfLogix and SkyCaddie Golf GPS Devices - The Secret to a Lower Golf Score and a Lower Handicap

Avid golfers are very familiar with names like Callaway, TaylorMade,Ping and Titleist. But, have you heard of GolfLogix, SkyCaddie, iGolf, Sonocaddie and GolfBuddy? These are just a few of the Golf GPS names that are rapidly becoming part of the golfing vocabulary, worldwide. More and more golfers are relying on GPS technology to give them an edge on the course and over their golfing buddies.

Why Does Every Avid Golfer Want A Golf GPS Device ?

It's what I call the 'GPS Golf Advantage.' That advantage is the Secret to a Lower Golf Score and Handicap. It's what you see on the bottom line on tour scorecard.

Do You Want:

* to know the distance from your lie to the front , the center and back of the green

* to know the distance you drove the ball off the tee

* to stop guessing how far you are from that elusive green

* to know the distance from your lie to the water hazards and fairway bunkers (Don't you hate it when your ball lands in those fairway bunkers?)

* to be able to select your club with a greater degree of precision and confidence --no longer wasting time pondering over your club selection

* to keep track of how far you can hit the ball with each club.

* to substantially cut down on your playing time

* to reduce the number of putts you face because you are landing closer to the pin

If you answered YES to any of these 8 Golf GPS Advantages, then you should give serious consideration to owning a Golf GPS device with names like GolfLogix, Skycaddie, iGolf and Sonocaddie.

Your golfing buddies will stop laughing about your owning a Golf GPS unit when you consistently lower your score and beat them all. Just smile at them when they throw their clubs down in defeat.

Do your friends a favor, tell them they too need a Golf GPS device to lower their score. Tell them to check it out. They will thank you profusely. Happy Golfing!

Using Software to Track Your Golf Handicap

Are you a golfer who is interested in tracking your handicap? Tracking your handicap has a number of benefits. Some track so they have documentation for entering golf tournaments. Others do it simply to track their performance and find ways to improve their golf game. Either way, tracking your handicap can be made much easier and give you more motivation by doing so using online programs or computer software.

Due to the increase in popularity of the sport, there are several online and software options to choose from. They will not only help you determine your numerical handicap but some will even track your scores so you can get your official handicap that can be used for tournament competition. The extent of software features usually depends on the amount you're willing to pay. The more expensive golf programs give you detailed information on your game in spreadsheet format. The simpler programs and online resources will simply provide you with your numerical handicap.

No matter which program you go with, you'll still have to take your record keeping seriously. The handicap number and stats will only benefit you if your record keeping is accurate. Buying a golf program or using online software may be the motivation you need to better track your records.

If you're a casual golfer then constantly knowing your numerical golf handicap may not be that important to your game. However, the tracking of your stats could motivate you to find your handicaps and work on your game. While you may think that just making some better shots shows your improvement, having the numbers to back it up give you some self assurance.

If you'll be using the numerical handicap to enter tournaments then check with the organizers to make sue you use software or online programs that are approved by them. You can also check online for approved tracking software and how to correctly track your handicap for entrance.

Online aids and computer golf programs vary in price but there is surely something to fit your budget. The simpler programs start at just about 10 dollars and programs with more features cost as much as upwards of 100 dollars.

After you've tracked your handicap, there is golf training software that will help you improve your game. So whether you want to know your handicap for tournament entrance or just to improve your game, check out online programs and computer software to assist you.

Used Golf Balls

Used golf balls are also called recycled golf balls, experienced golf balls, reclaimed golf balls, or discount golf balls. The benefit of a used golf ball is of course, its price. They are usually found at a savings of sixty to eighty percent off the retail price. There are different types of used golf balls that are graded according to the usage of the golf ball.

The mint-quality used golf balls have the experience and feel of a ball that has been hit only once. This type of used golf ball is commonly known as a one hitter or one-hit wonder. These balls have a consistent color and glossy shine and perform as they would right out of the box. Next is the grade-A quality used golf ball; these are balls that just missed mint status, but still look like a new golf ball. These balls are perfect for any handicap level golfer as they perform just like you would expect from the golf brand of choice. There may be small player pen marks and very, very minor surface scratches on the golf ball. The next grade is the grade-B used golf balls that are shiny white with a small mark or fading in the printing and minor scuffing from the first owner. The balls are near perfect for play and are best for the high handicap or beginning golfer or for a golf course that has lots of hazards.

Next in line is the grade-C used golf ball that is great for practice or for that long shot over the water hazard. There may be moderate-sized play pen marks and small to moderate scuffs or scratches on them. However, they are clean and playable with signs of usage. There are also golf ball companies that supply refinished golf balls that are processed by stripping, stamping, painting, or clear-coating the golf ball. Like used golf balls, these golf balls are not endorsed by the Original manufacturer, and therefore not in their coverage. There are also prizes golf balls used for those who like to drive the golf ball range. These are usually called on golf balls.

Shoot Lower Golf Scores - How to Lower Your Golf Handicap Practically Overnight!

One thing that all golfers want to do regardless of what they may tell you is improve your game. Some of your friends may tell you that they are content with how they are playing, but in reality almost everyone who plays this fun and crazy game wants to shoot lower golf scores. To do this their are three things that you can do right now to help you play better tomorrow.

1. The fastest way to get better is to improve your putting. Putting is what can make or break your round of golf. Their are several golfers on the PGA tour that their games have gone into the tank because they lost the ability to putt consistently well. So, if you want to shoot lower golf scores you need to work on your lag putting, as well as constantly practice those putts inside of ten feet.

2. Another method that you can use in order to get better at golf is to concentrate on your chipping and wedge play. This is a very important part of your game that is often overlooked. The fact of the matter is that half of your shots will take place inside of 100 yards, so it makes sense that to improve your golf game in a hurry you just need to create a little bit of feel around the greens with your wedges.

3. Another method is to focus on your take away in your golf swing. Many people take the club too far to the inside which will likely result in poor contact and no real sense of where the ball is going. This inconsistency can lead to frustration which causes many people to struggle on and off the golf course.

If you really want to shoot lower golf scores then you need to learn to swing the club in a simple manner which will produce excellent golf shots. This is after all one of the keys to playing great golf.

Play Bethpage Black Course Free

Few golfers get the chance to play a PGA Course for free. But now the USGA is giving players with any level golf handicap this rare opportunity using their computers. You can play Bethpage Black, the site of the 2009 U.S. Open Championship, for free until June 21 by going to the United Stages Golf Association's Web site (usgaopen.com) and clicking on the Virtual U.S. Open link. All you need is your browser.

Playing the Virtual Open is a great golf lesson. You get a chance to play Bethpage Black under championship conditions. Plus, you get a chance to win a spot in the U.S Virtual Championship round on June 22. The winner of the championship will be a guest of the USGA at the 2010 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. The Virtual Open is free to enter, and you can play as often as you like. Below are some golf tips on how to play the course's toughest holes.

Hole: Number 4 (517 yards)
This hole isn't an especially long par-5, but it's tricky. The drive isn't bad, but on your second shot, you have to deal with a huge diagonal bunker running from left to right and up the fairway. Plus, the hole's overall design creates a blind shot to the green. Going for it in two takes nerve, because you have deep bunkers short and left. Over the green is a a five-foot drop to a chipping area. Go beyond that and you're in no man's land. So be careful!

Hole: Number 5 (478 yards)
This hole is a challenge-no doubt about it. The hole isn't that long for a par-4, but for weekend players with high golf handicaps, it's a good lesson in playing to an elevated green. You can see the flag from the fairway, but not the green, elevated some 20 to 30 feet and surrounded by bunkers. The elevated green makes the approach shot a tough one. Also, you need a good drive. Pull it left and your angle to the green is blocked by a cross bunker and trees.

Hole: Number 10 (508 yards)
One of the prettiest holes on the course, this par-4 veers away from the normal holes design into a links style hole. You face dunes on the left and trees on the right, which outline the hole. The rough is deep, so if you end up there, you're in real trouble. Forget about a miracle shot. Just hack it out with a wedge and try to set up your next shot. Your drive is the key to this hole. Keep it out of the high grass and you'll be okay.

Hole: Number 12 (504 yards)
Another challenging par-4, this hole will eat you up, if you're not careful. The tee shot's a killer. There's a bunker on the left that players with low golf handicaps and professionals often try to carry. Again, be careful here. The bunker's deep, so you may want to lay up. Fortunately, groundskeepers have removed the rough between the bunker and the fairway that was there before. Now, it's all fairway to the green. Play it safe to the right of the green and you have about 230 yards to the green.

Hole: Number 15th (459 yards)
They call this hole, "Heart Attack Hill"-and with good reason. What makes the hole so difficult is the long second shot to the green. It's all carry, then you're walking up 60 feet to the green. Stay away from the front bunker. It's about 8 to 10 feet in elevation to carry the front lip. The bunker is a great place to hold a golf instruction session on how to get out of high-lipped bunkers.

There's a few golf tips to help address Bethpage Black if you play in the Virtual U.S. Open. Check it out when you have a chance. Play it as often as you like and have fun with it. It provides a great mental golf lesson regardless of your golf handicap or how you do. And you never know, you might just end up at the 2010 U.S. Open as a guest of the USGA.

Plugging Those Power Leaks

What do Ernie Els and Fred Couples have in common when it comes to ballstriking? Ernie is a big strapping guy. Fred is a smaller, slightly built man. Given their sizes, you'd think there would be a big difference in their ballstriking capabilities. Yet there isn't. Both are considered among the best ballstrikers on tour. That's because Fred has learned to plug the power leaks in his swing. Power leaks cost you distance, inflate your scores, and boost your golf handicap.

If you want to be a great ballstriker, copy Fred Couples. Plug your swing's power leaks. Otherwise, they'll betray you and fatten your golf handicap, even if you have a good short game. But plugging your power leaks helps you hit the ball farther and with more consistency than ever. And that in turn will improve both your scores and your game. Stopping your leaks may not help you hit the ball as far as Ernie or Fred, but it will impact your game.

Most Common Power Leaks

The key to great ballstriking is managing the power stored in your backswing. Most players swing a club harder, thinking the harder they swing the farther the ball will go. Instead of trying to manage their power, they're trying to manipulate it. Too much manipulation creates a backswing full of "compensations"-attempts to redirect the club to a good impact position. This might work for a few swings, but too much manipulation costs you strokes over the long haul.

In my golf instruction sessions, I teach players to manage their power not manipulate it. Good golfers never speed up their clubs by swinging harder. They allow the power stored in their swings to simply "happen," using leverage to create force. They also plug the power leaks that can short-circuit their golf swings. Below are the typical power leaks in a swing:

1. A lack of wrist cock

2. A collapsed right elbow at the top of the swing

3. An overly bent elbow at the top of the swing.

4. An early release of the club

5. A late release of the club.

In addition to plugging power leaks, good ballstrikers take advantage of two key levers in their golf swings. The first lever is created when your wrists cock and form a 90-degree angle between your left forearm and clubshaft. The other is formed when you fold your right elbow so that your right forearm (left for left-handers) comes perpendicular to the right biceps. Failing to produce these levers during your backswing creates power leaks.

Managing Your Power

Managing the levers in your backswing keys the delivery of power at impact. The two drills below-the One-Arm Drill and the Hit and Hold Drill-teach you to manage the stored power and plug your power leaks.

One Arm Drill

Assume your normal setup position. Then take your left hand off the club. Next slowly swing your right arm to the top, making sure the elbow folds to form a 90-degree angle. Turn the upper part of your body away from the target and shift your weight to your back hip joint. On the downswing allow your right elbow to straighten like a piston, and your right side to turn through the ball. Now shift your weight and swing. The ball should go straight. If it goes right, your release is late. If it goes left, your release is early.

Hit and Hold Drill

Assume your normal setup. Now take the club away. Go to the top and swing back to the ball. Make sure to sling the club across your straight left leg stopping just after impact when both arms are straight. The hands should be higher than the clubhead at the finish. If they are, then it's a sign that the energy dump from the lever to the ball occurred efficiently. If they're not, you need to work on channeling energy to the ball more efficiently.

The One-Arm Drill helps you manage the right side of your swing. The Hit and Hold Drill helps you manage the left side. Together, they help you plug the leaks in your swing and better manage the delivery of power to the ball. That in turn generates longer, straighter shots and help you cut strokes from your golf handicap.

Weekend golfers often rely on muscle power to produce distance. Swinging a club harder or faster doesn't always generate distance. Sometimes, in fact, it costs you distance. Great ball strikers like Ernie Els and Fred Couples take advantage of the built-in levers in their swings to create effortless power. If you want to do the same-and shave strokes off your golf handicap-learn to manage the power stored in your swing and plug your power leaks.

Copyright (c) 2007 Jack Moorehouse