The majority of shots on a golf course are won or lost within 50 yards of the hole.
The pitch shot is distinguished from a chip in that it is played with a nearly full swing, usually from around 30 to 70 yards from the hole.
It is a harder approach shot to master than the chip but because the ball flies so high and stops almost immediately, it can be a great tool for creating birdie chances.
STEP ONE
Take a narrow stance with the ball in the centre of your feet.
Your front foot maybe slightly open to allow a freer swing - but take care to adjust the clubface so it is still aimed at the target.
Some players open their stance a bit and compensate by opening the club face in order to get extra loft.
Practice hitting the ball crisply square on at first.
STEP TWO
The trick to mastering the pitch shot is to remember it does not require a different type of swing, just a shortened version of your full swing.
However, shortening the backswing makes retaining a smooth rhythm harder.
Practice swinging to a clock's ticking.
Alter the distance you hit the ball by changing the length of your backswing, not the power of your hit.
Make a full turn of your shoulders but your hands should only reach shoulder height (about three-quarters of your normal backswing).
This will allow you to attack the ball, but still retain the control essential to accurate pitching.
STEP THREE
As with any shot, your aim should be to present the clubface perfectly square to the target.
But this is even more important with the pitch, as any minor deviations will be magnified by such an intense shot.
Aim for a ball then turf contact.
If you are regularly thinning the ball when attempting this shot, you are probably not accelerating into it.
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