2-MINUTE CLINICS

How to hit a half-wedge shot

Any time you're close enough to the green that you can't make a full swing, you're in "half-wedge territory," a general term for any spot that calls for a less-than-full shot. Here's how to regulate the distance in these situations. —Maureen Farrell, one of Golf Digest's Best Teachers in Missouri

  • 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