Every golfer knows that developing a strong short game is a certain path to lower golf scores. This is not a profound thought because of the completely obvious nature of the statement. The real question is how do we do this without spending a exorbitated about of time practicing. Andrew Rice offers two fundamental tips that will have immediate results to your short game that is worth exploring.

The two key points that Rice talks about is swing tempo and ball contact position. These are nothing new and we have talked about them in the past. With spring just around the corner, it is important for me to remember these points as I start to practice my short game.

Both of these points have caused challenges to my short game in the past. Tempo is the least challenging because I continually work on swinging the club in a smooth pendulum type motion. I try to keep the same speed with most of my chips, but extend the back swing distance to increase energy needed to propel the ball to my chosen landing area. For the most part, I think I have this particular type down.

Contacting the ball first is something that poses a bit more of a challenge. Tinkering with ball position for different clubs has the potential to create fat or thin hits on the ball. I struggle with trying to make simultaneous contact with the ball and ground, when I need to hit the ball first just above the ground. Additionally, using different clubs requires a different ball location in my stance….even if it is ever slow slight. Hitting the ball first is my challenge and I will continue to practice this skill as my golf season approaches.

Andrew Rice is correct about the two points of tempo and ball contact being critical to our short game. If you can master these points, I am confident that your scores will lower a few strokes per round. Developing a strong chipping game will take the pressure off your putter, increase your confidence and lower your golf scores. Sounds like a great plan to me.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!