Achieving Perfect “Pitch”

A pitch shot is one of those in-between shots: longer than a chip, but usually shorter than a full swing. A pitch shot is often used to play over a bunker towards the green. Because the pitch shot is an “in-between” shot, it’s often a shot that gets overlooked when it comes to practice!

70% of all shots are played within 70 yards of the green
According to golf great Gary Player, 70% of all shots are played within 70 yards of the green, and for this reason alone it is important to practice and develop a consistent pitch shot.

Control your shot and your swing
Control and accuracy are essential in making a good pitch shot. A standard pitch shot requires that you correctly address the ball and then control your swing. Your body rotation should control the length of your backswing and in the downswing you need to consciously make your body and arms control your swing, accelerating the club head down into the ball and through to impact, making sure that your through swing is the same distance as your back swing!

Not all pitch shots are created equal
One of the most common problems golfers have in regards to their pitch shot is judging and controlling the distance. Depending on the distance your ball has to travel, golfers must adjust their backswing in order to regulate the amount of force they exert on the ball in their downswing. Ultimately the length of your backswing directly relates to the distance the ball flies!

Develop a 4-gear system
It’s a good idea to develop a practice system for hitting your pitch shots. Consider using the analogy of a four-gear system, with first gear being the gear you use for hitting a short shot and fourth-gear being virtually a full swing. Obviously the length of your backswing relates directly to the “gear” you are in - shorter back swing (about a ¼ swing) for first gear, and almost full swing for fourth gear. Second gear would be roughly a 1/2 back swing and third gear would be about a ¾ swing.

When approaching your ball, immediately assess the distance your ball has to travel to make your shot. Decide what “gear” you want to be in, and adjust your back swing accordingly, making sure your follow through is as long as your backswing.

Practice makes perfect
Take your wedge and practice your 4-gear system on a regular basis. Using the same club, hit your ball in first, second, third and fourth gears and make a note of the average distance your ball travels in the air. Practice this over and over again until the process becomes second nature.

If you are having trouble getting a feel for your pitch shot, be sure to talk to one of our CPGA professionals for some help and guidance.

Also, consider a visit to the Pro Shop and check out our selection of wedges. Most professional golfers carry up to three wedges in their bag, usually ranging from 52° to 60°, so that they have the option of playing a wide range of shots at critical angles. Test out our wedges and find one (or two) that work for you. You’d be surprised what a difference a good pitch shot can make in your game.

Yours in golf,
Kevin Purcell
CPGA Professional

Filed under pro tips.
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