The Role of Wrists in Chip Shots: A Lever Swing Perspective
In the lever swing philosophy, every shot—from full swings to delicate chips—relies on smooth rhythm, natural feel, and precise timing rather than forced mechanics. A chip shot is a controlled, low-trajectory play around the greens, where the ball spends more time rolling than flying. Maintaining your core principles of effortless release and light grip pressure translates beautifully to short game precision, helping you sweep the ball cleanly without manipulation.
Chip and Run: Firm Wrists for Low, Running Control
For the classic chip and run, keep your wrists firm and quiet throughout the stroke. This mimics the stability of the lever swing's spine angle maintenance, preventing scooping or flipping. Treat it like a long putt: rock your shoulders while your arms and hands stay connected as a single unit.
- Grip pressure: Light, like holding a tube of toothpaste without squeezing—essential for feel without tension.
- Setup: Ball back in stance, weight forward, hands ahead of the ball for a descending strike.
- Motion: Hinge wrists minimally on the backswing (feel them set naturally, not forcibly), then maintain firmness through impact. Visualize brushing the grass with the clubhead for a clean, low launch.
Flip Shots: Controlled Wrist Action for Height
When you need more loft, like over a bunker, transition to a flip shot with a subtle wristy action. Here, allow a cupped wrist at the top (lead wrist bent backward) for an open face and height, but only under controlled rhythm—never a scoop. This aligns with the lever swing's natural wrist hinge and forearm rotation: let hands rotate smoothly through impact without fighting face closure.
- Key feel: Shorten the backswing, hinge wrists actively for acceleration, then release fully like "throwing" the clubhead.
- Avoid overdoing it: Excess wrist flip leads to inconsistency; stay within your tempo.
Drills to Develop Wrist Control in Chipping
Build feel-based consistency with these lever-inspired exercises, emphasizing tempo over mechanics.
- Feet-Together Chips: Hit chip and runs with feet close together to promote arm-dominated motion and firm wrists—perfect for sensing natural release.
- Towel Under Arms Drill: Tuck a towel under both armpits for chips; this enforces connection and prevents independent wrist flipping.
- Gravity Drop Practice: From a three-quarter backswing, let arms drop naturally before any wrist action—feel the club fall into the slot for timed release.
- Distance Control Ladder: Chip to targets at 5, 10, 15 feet, alternating firm wrists (chip and run) and wrist hinge (flips) to groove both feels.
Position the ball slightly forward of center for extension through impact, and always prioritize light grip for fluidity. Practice these with patience, as lever players thrive on developing internal timing.
Key Takeaway: Balance Firmness and Feel for Short Game Mastery
In chipping, default to firm wrists for reliable chip and runs, reserving wrist action for specific high flips—always guided by the lever swing's smooth, rhythmic release. This approach delivers effortless control, turning the greenside into your canvas for artistry. Master the feel, and your short game will flow with the beauty of perfect tempo.