Become A Master Pitcher: 3 Tips
This week’s AT&T Bryon Nelson features two par 5’s and six par 4’s over 450 yards, so the TPC Four Seasons Resort places a premium on ball striking and short game. PGA Tour players will be hitting a lot of long irons into greens and percentages lean towards missing the green at those distances. Missing greens places stress on the short game, so every player needs to master the pitch shot for tap-in pars. Below are a few keys to help knock it close from 50 yards and in.
Weight & Ball Position
Keep your weight an even 50/50 on each foot while positioning the golf ball towards the middle or slightly back in your stance.
Quiet Hands
Your hand position should be even with the golf ball. Start your backswing by keeping your wrists quiet to ensure you’re turning and using your shoulders during the swing.
Try thinking of your shoulders and torso controlling the swing, not your hands and arms.
Rhythm
Rhythm is a big key in pitching. The pace of your backswing should match the pace of your downswing.
Keep in mind that you are using your shoulders and torso to hit the shot,so the force and power your upper body provides is much greater than your arms, hence the reason you do not need a fast paced stroke.
Quick Recap
1. Weight & Ball Position – 50/50 and in the middle of your stance.
2. Quiet Hands – Let your shoulders control the swing.
3. Rhythm – Match your backswing and downswing.
As with any new motion, it’s best to practice a few times before taking it to the course. Hopefully you’ll be knocking them tight and kicking them in the hole!
Catch-up on these other instructional articles:
- 3 Keys to Shaping the Golf Ball Any Way You Want
- 4 Easy Steps to Making Every Short Putt
- Aggressive of Safe? Determining the Right Play
- Annika’s Advice to Take the Plunge Successfulyy and Start the Year off Right
Ryan Spaziani
Ryan Spaziani has been a Class “A” member of the PGA of America since 2012. He graduated from the Professional Golfers Career College in Orlando, FL with an Associate Degree in Professional Golf Management. He has worked for both private and public golf courses in the Raleigh, North Carolina. Ryan has a strong passion and extensive knowledge for teaching, club fitting and growing the game of golf.