10 Rules to Help You Hit Wedge Shots Like a Pro
If you want to become a great pitcher, all you need are a few key fundamentals. Below I’ve included everything you need to execute these shots like a pro and leave them close enough for a tap-in putt.
Follow along to find out what they are.
1. Use a higher-lofted club
Selecting the right club for your pitch shot might seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think. Remember that you need to get the ball in the air, so you’ll want to use one of your most lofted clubs like your lob wedge, sand wedge or gap wedge. These clubs are also designed with a rounded bottom, or a bounce, that helps them glide across the ground and decreases your chances of catching the leading edge.
2. Take your full-swing posture.
Most pitch shots require a longer swing, which means you need to set up to the ball like you would any other full-swing shot. That means getting into a balanced, athletic position. Bend from the hips and let your arms hang naturally, with your hands below your shoulders. Having a proper stance and posture will help you make solid, consistent contact and give you complete control over your distances.
3. Position your club properly
Not knowing how to position the club at setup is a common mistake that I see from amateurs. Most amateurs I see think the leading edge should be even with the ground, but if you’re doing it right your club will actually rest on the bounce, thereby raising the leading edge slightly off the turf.
Another issue I see players run into is knowing when their clubface is square. The increased loft of a wedge actually gives it the appearance of being open, but many players don’t know that, so they usually close the face thinking they’re squaring it up. Unfortunately, this actually increases their chances of catching the leading edge. Instead, try finding a marking or indicator on your shaft or grip that’s in the center to know when your face is square, open or closed.
A great way to check if your clubface is positioned properly is to take a few practice swings. If the club hits the ground and digs, there’s a good chance that it’s not positioned correctly at setup. When you reset, check that it
Besides loft, what other factor plays a crucial role in wedge performance, and how does it impact the shot?
## Interview Snippet: Mastering the Art of Wedge Shots
**Host:** Today we’re talking wedges with Kellie Stenzel, a golf expert and author of “10 Rules to Help You Hit Wedge Shots Like a Pro.” Kellie, welcome to the show!
**Kellie:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** So, according to your article, picking the right wedge can make all the difference in a short game.
**Kellie:** Absolutely! [[2](https://www.golfpass.com/instruction/10-rules-to-help-you-hit-wedge-shots-like-a-pro)]It might seem obvious, but a lot of golfers struggle with this. To truly master wedge shots, you need to choose a club that gets the ball airborne quickly. Think lob wedge, sand wedge, or gap wedge – these are your go-to’s!
**Host**: And what about other factors besides just loft?
**Kellie**: Good question! The shape of the **sole** of the club is critical too. Look for a rounded bottom, or **bounce**, which helps the wedge glide smoothly through the turf. This reduces the chances of catching or digging, leading to cleaner, more accurate shots.
**Host**: Excellent advice, Kellie. For our viewers who want to learn more about mastering their wedge game, where can they find your full article?
**Kellie:** You can find “10 Rules to Help You Hit Wedge Shots Like a Pro” at [insert link here] – it’s packed with helpful tips and drills.
**Host:** Great! Thanks for sharing your expertise with us today, Kellie.
**Kellie:** My pleasure!
