One of the most difficult shots in golf if not the most difficult, is the shot from 25-50 yards from the green. For many it’s take out the lob wedge and see what happens. It shouldn’t be that difficult if you approach it in a more positive way.
Before we even get into the technique, it is an absolute MUST to have a unified grip. This means each hand has a role to play in the golf swing but they can’t work independent of another, rather they work together.
As you place the left hand on the club, make sure the handle is behind the heel pad. This will allow you to hinge and release the club properly. When you place your right hand, make sure the left thumb is in the palm of the right hand. The only part of the handle you should see is below the right first finger.
Now to set up for a pitch shot, your stance should be shoulder width or slightly less. Make sure the end of the club is pointing at your belt buckle or slightly left of it. Open the clubface slightly and lay the head behind the ball an inch. The idea is to use the bottom of the club to contact the ground so it will slide under the ball and get it in the air quickly.
On the backswing, bend your right wrist and swing your arms until the hands are slightly above your waist. Start the downswing with a subtle weight transfer with the legs and then turn your hips to the left. As the clubhead reaches the impact position you want to make sure you don’t release the right wrist too much. Try to hold it back and allow it to release a little. The follow through should have the clubhead somewhat above the waist with the clubface in a slightly open position when you finish.
It is important to use your hips in this shot as they will help you finesse the shot better. Just remember, the ultimate key to any type of shot is the grip.
Practice it!!