Sometimes, reaching those tough-to-reach hole locations requires shaping the ball — even on pitches inside 75 yards. It’s a high-level play, but one that is required when playing a lot of a courses. GOLF Top 100 Teacher Jonathan Yarwood shared a video explaining the technique behind these shots so you can add it to your arsenal as well. (video below)
“Imagine the flag is 12 o’clock on the clock face,” Yarwood says. “Aim your body at 11 o’clock.”
With a slightly open setup, you now want to set up the clubface behind the ball. But instead of having the face square to the target, open it up just slightly.
Stand closer to the ball than you would on a normal pitch, and pull the handle of the club down and toward your lead knee.
“From this setup, I’ve got no choice but to lift the club up and away from me,” he says. “But then the key move from here is feeling like the left pocket keeps moving, the ribs keep moving, the belt buckle keeps moving — so the handle gets pulled sharply left. It almost feels like I’m pulling the handle into my pocket.”
By releasing the club to the left, you’re effectively cutting across the ball through impact. And as long as you keep the clubface open and don’t roll it shut, you should create cut spin that will work the ball from left to right.
“It increases spin as well if you really rip your body open,” he says. “It’s a great shot to have in your bag.”
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:
With the tight pins, fast and firm greens as well as a swirling wind, you’ll be seeing players at Bayhill subtly shaping their pitch shots. He’s how and why you need this skill. 🙌🏼 pic.twitter.com/XASzfPv6Xa
— JonathanYarwood (@JonathanYarwood) March 5, 2022
Article originally appeared on: Golf.com