Phil Mickelson, one of the greatest short game players in golf history, has developed a chipping technique known as the “Hinge and Hold.” This technique is designed to improve your chipping accuracy and consistency by simplifying the movements involved. If you’re looking to elevate your chipping game, this tutorial will break down the key components of the Hinge and Hold method and provide tips on how to incorporate it into your practice routine.
Understanding the Hinge and Hold Technique
The Hinge and Hold method primarily focuses on how you move the club during your chipping stroke. Here are the essential elements:
1. Set Up
Stance: Start with your feet close together, adopting an open stance.
Weight Distribution: Your weight should be favoring your front foot (left foot for right-handed golfers).
Ball Position: Place the ball slightly back in your stance, nearer to your rear foot.
2. Creating the Hinge
Wrist Action: As you begin your backswing, hinge your wrists upwards to create a 90-degree angle with the club. This helps set up the angle needed for a clean chip.
Club Path: Keep the clubhead low to the ground; it should be moving back with minimal elevation during the initial part of the swing.
3. The Hold
Follow Through: Maintain the wrist hinge into your follow-through. This doesn’t mean the wrist should remain rigid; rather, you want to maintain that angle for a consistent trajectory of the ball.
Finish Position: Your finish should be similar to your setup, with your weight still favoring the front foot.
Tips for Practicing the Hinge and Hold
Short Swings: Start by practicing short swings, focusing on the hinge and the follow-through.
Use Alignment Aids: Set up alignment sticks to help with your stance and swing path.
Video Yourself: Record your practice sessions to analyze your wrist hinge and follow-through.
Conclusion
Trying out Phil Mickelson’s Hinge and Hold chipping technique can be a game-changer for your short game. Taking the time to practice this method could lead to improved consistency and confidence around the greens. Give it a shot during your next practice session and share your results! Have you tried this technique? What are your experiences with it? Looking forward to hearing everyone’s thoughts!
Phil Mickelson’s Hinge and Hold chipping method really emphasizes the importance of wrist action. It essentially allows for a more consistent strike with the ball. It’s quite a game changer for short game improvement!
The mechanics are quite straightforward. You hinge your wrists up on the backswing and hold that angle through the downswing. This prevents flipping at impact.
I’ve tried it and can confirm that it improves both control and distance on short chips! You really feel the difference when you practice it consistently.
The beauty of Hinge and Hold is in its simplicity. Mini practice swings in your backyard can gradually build your confidence. Just remember to keep that angle!
I’m still on the fence about it. Is it really worth changing my whole chipping approach for this? Would love to hear if others have faced a similar dilemma.
Trying something new can feel risky, but it might improve your game! Just have fun with it and don’t hesitate to experiment. Who knows, it might become your go-to method!
Great idea! The Hinge and Hold technique focuses on keeping your wrists firm while allowing your shoulders to move the club. Start with a narrow stance for better balance.
Absolutely! For beginners, try practicing with a half swing. Set up your stance and hinge your wrists slightly. It feels strange at first, but it helps control the shot.