When you’re short-sided around the green with an obstacle between you and the flag, a high, open-faced flop shot can be your best chance to save par. The problem? Executing it. For many amateurs, inconsistent contact can turn a potential up-and-down into a costly mistake.
However, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Debbie Doniger has two methods that can make this tricky shot more manageable. In the video below, Doniger breaks down a beginner-friendly option and a high-launching shot for more experienced players.
Follow her simple set up keys to learn how to launch it high and land it softly. With her quick tips, you’ll build your confidence around the green and master this challenging chip.
The easy flop shot
Doniger explains that the first step to pulling off her easy flop shot is a good setup. Start by opening your clubface slightly, then play the ball middle to slightly forward in your stance. Raise the handle of your club slightly, so the shaft is more upright and the toe of your club sits down.
From there, Doniger says to focus on keeping your arms wide in your backswing and in your through swing.
“Maybe it’ll feel like a half or three-quarter swing,” Doniger says, “Let the club glide through the grass and you should be able to hit a really easy flop shot.”
Your only goal when hitting this beginner-friendly flop shot, is to get the ball high and have it land softly without introducing unnecessary risk.
Doniger’s advanced flop shot method
For golfers seeking more height and an even softer landing, Doniger offers a second technique that requires a little more precision.
First, take a wider stance. Then, bend your lead knee over your lead foot. This creates an anchor or axis for you to rotate around as you take the club back and through.
Next, you’re going to open your clubface and lower the handle of the golf club. Doniger explains that these adjustments work together to offset the change in aim that’s caused by opening the clubface. Helping you increase loft without aiming your club far right of the target.
The last step in this shot is to keep your arms soft and make a slower swing.
“It’s a slower swing because we’ll need a bigger swing,” Doniger says, “And then it’s going to launch really high and really soft.”
To develop the right feel, Doniger recommends a simple drill to improve your release on this shot. Start by getting into your set up for a flop shot. Then, take your thumbs off the club. Doniger explains that by taking your thumbs off the club, it encourages more wrist action and allows the clubhead to release through impact.
“You’re going to feel a little more wrist,” she says, “You’re going to feel like the club head releases a little bit and passes your hands on the way through.”
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: golf.com
