How to hit a half-wedge shot

Any time you're close enough to the green that you can't make a full swing without airmailing it, you might be uncertain what to do. Do you swing slower? Do you swing shorter? Do you try to fly the ball higher? If you find yourself in this awkward position, you're in what is commonly called "half-wedge territory," a general term for any spot that calls for a less-than-full shot. Here's how to regulate the distance. —Maureen Farrell, one of Golf Digest's Best Teachers in Missouri

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  • Play the ball in the middle of your stance
  • Be sure your nose is in front of the ball (closer to the target)
  • As you start back, make sure your head stays in place
  • Take the club back with your torso rotation, not your hands
  • Allow your wrists to hinge the club up as you rotate
  • Create an 'L' shape with your arms and club as you go back (above)
  • Stop the backswing when your lead arm is roughly chest high
  • Smoothly accelerate the club down into the ball
  • Keep your body turning toward the target
  • Resist the urge to hit with your hands
  • Make sure your nose is still ahead of the ball at impact
  • Let your hands and arms swing past your body
  • Don't stop turning your hips and shoulders through
  • Let the club rehinge into a backward 'L' at the finish (above)
  • Wrap a resistance band around your torso and hands
  • Swing back, feeling your arm swing pulling your body
  • Use the tension from the band to make a wide, compact swing (above)
  • Notice how the band keeps you from overswinging