Let’s start by defining exactly what a pitch shot is. To pitch means to toss. It is a short shot that generally spends more time in the air than on the ground. A chip is just the opposite.  In most cases, it runs more than it flies. The pitch shot may have got its name because it flies as if someone has made an underhand toss of the ball into the air and onto the green.   

Many amateur golfers have pitching problems. They are comfortable making full swings, but as soon as the distance to be covered requires them to make less than a full swing at less than full speed, a lack of touch becomes apparent.

Good pitchers of the ball swing easily yet firmly. Rhythm is essential. In this important area of your game, distance is the priority. You’ll need firm wrist action in a pitch, but the consistency will come from the motion of the club being controlled by the use of your bigger muscles blending with your arms and hands:  synchronicity. 

Gravity too will be a big part of this shot. The weight of your arms controls the speed the club moves. On the down swing, the clubhead weight will stretch your arms, allowing the club to ground out at the right point.  Let the length of your backswing determine the distance the ball flies. The shorter the shot, the smaller the swing.  The longer the shot, the longer the swing. This way, the clubhead will always be accelerating through the impact zone.  You’ll make solid contact more often and have better distance control.

Playing the Pitch Shot

1. In your pre-shot routine, swing by moving everything together; synchronized and in rhythm to prepare for the execution of this shot.  “FEEL” the distance with your eyes and this rehearsal motion.

2. The arms move with the rest of the body; they neither initiate the motion nor add any power.  The hands are secure, the arms are relaxed.

3. Begin your wrist hinge as soon as you start your takeaway.  It should be accomplished gradually and be completed by the end of the backswing.

4. During the through-swing, keep everything synchronized as you swing through the ball.
Remember…the “up” is built into the club…no need to “lift” the ball.

5. Ball in center of stance, weight slightly favoring the left side (right side for left handers).

6. Grip down a bit for distance control.

7. The backswing and forward swing are of equal length—the length being appropriate for the distance you want to carry the ball.  Wrists will hinge and unhinge naturally if you are not gripping tightly.

8. The pace of the swing is equal back and through—slower for short shots, faster for longer shots.

9. Don’t quit on the shot…allow your body to pivot with the arms on the forward swing.

10. Finish with your weight on left side (right side for left handers) with you body facing the target.

Remember, Pitching is just a smaller version of what you are doing well in the full swing.

Feature Photo: Na Rin An at the 2023 US Women’s Open | Photographer: Ben Harpring