Instruction – Mastering Trajectory

When it comes to chip shots from around the green, you need to hit all kinds of shots; high and soft, low and rolling, and everything in between. The good news is that once we have the standard “chip and run” shot down, the others become easy to learn as set up changes primarily create them.

Work on these three trajectories like piano scales and you’ll have the coverage from around the green for any shot.

The Standard “Chip and Run” 

AKA Trajectory One

Trajectory: Lower-flight with more roll

Club Selection: Any

The Set Up

Weight: 60% on lead foot

Ball Position: In line with trail big toe

Club Face: Square

Shaft Orientation: Forward (just in front of zipper)

Distance From Ball: One shoe length

Body Alignment: Square (slightly open stance is okay)

The Standard “Chip and Run” 

AKA Trajectory Two

Trajectory: Mid-flight with less roll than trajectory one

Club Selection: Any

The Set Up

Weight: 60% on lead foot

Ball Position: In center of stance

Club Face: Slightly open

Shaft Orientation: Neutral/slightly forward (just in front of zipper)

Distance From Ball: One shoe length

Body Alignment: Slightly open to offset club face being open

The Standard “Chip and Run” 

AKA Trajectory Three

Trajectory: High-flight with less roll than trajectory two

Club Selection: 54°-60°

The Set Up

Weight: 60% on lead foot

Ball Position: In line with lead big toe

Club Face: Open

Shaft Orientation: Neutral/slightly back (just in front of zipper)

Distance From Ball: One shoe length

Body Alignment: Open to offset club face being open