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Nobody quits golf because they want to. They quit because it hurts. If your back, hips, or shoulders are turning 18 holes into an endurance test, the problem might not be your body it might be a mismatch between the swing you learned at 30 and the body you have at 60. You don’t need a massive swing overhaul to play pain-free. By making three honest adjustments, using your knees to unlock rotation, implementing a simple 5-minute pre-round mobility routine, and matching your equipment to your current swing speed, you can stay competitive and comfortable. Learn how GOLFTEC’s OptiMotion™ data can help you identify your specific mobility limits and build a swing that works with your body, not against it.
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If you ever stood around the green wondering "Should I chip this... or pitch it?" - you're not alone. The short game can feel intimidating, but once you understand the difference between these two shots (and when to use each), you'll start saving strokes immediately.
What Is a Chip Shot?
Think of a chip shot as a low runner. It has a lower trajectory, hits the green sooner, and rolls out like a putt.
Best time to chip:
- You've got plenty of green to work with
- No hazards between you and the hole
- You want consistency and control
Pro tip from GOLFTEC Coach Mikah: Treat your chip like a putting stroke. Use less wrist hinge, lean the shaft slightly toward the target, an keep your motion simple. In fact, swapping your lob wedge for a 9-iron is often the smarter move - especially if you tend to hit behind the ball.
What Is a Pitch Shot?
A pitch shot is your lofted saver. It goes higher, lands softer, and stops quickly.
Best time to pitch:
- You've got a bunker, rough, or other obstacle between you and the green
- The pin is tucked close with little room to roll out
- You need the ball to sit down fast
Pro tip from GOLFTEC Coach Mikah: Grab your lob wedge, open the clubface slightly, and keep your hands more neutral (instead of pressing them forward). This lets the bounce of the clubb work for you - making it easier to glide through the grass and pop the ball up.
Which Shot Should You Choose?
A simple way to decide:
- Lots of green -> chip it low and let it roll
- Need height -> pitch it high and let it stop
And here's the real secret: the chip is usually the higher-percentage shot. Les movement, fewer variables, and more consistency.
Practice Tip You Can Try Today
- For chips: Pick a landing spot just onto the green, then let the ball roll the rest of the way
- For pitches: Focus on brushing the ground under the ball while keeping the clubface open
Watch the Full Lesson
Want to see the drills, setups, and live examples? Check out the full YouTube video where Mikah walks through everything step-by-step
Ready to Sharpen Your Short Game?
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