Use Your Hybrid For An Easy Save

If you’re a weekend golfer, you’re probably no stranger to missing greens. Sometimes, this leaves you with a tricky “in-between” shot that can cost you if you’re not careful. The question is: Do you chip or putt from there? If you’re a good chipper, you’ll probably try chipping it. If you’re a good putter, you’ll probably try putting it. Both shots are risky from this distance. A better—and safer—option may be to use a hybrid.

Here are six keys to using the hybrid for an easy save:

1. Plan your path to the hole
2. Choke down on the club
3. Keep your hands ahead of the ball
4. Distribute your weight evenly
5. Position the ball in the middle
6. Pivot your hips through the swing

Start by planning your path to the hole. Keep both the green’s break and the putt’s length in mind when planning the path. Also, choke down on your hybrid for better club control.

Set up to the ball as you normally would. Distribute your weight evenly over both feet and position the ball in the middle. Set your hands ahead of the ball and keep them that way through impact.

Make a comfortable shoulder-driven chipping swing. Rock your shoulders slightly through the swing and pivot your hips slightly. You should feel as if you were making a miniature swing. Concentrate on making ball-first contact.

Using the hybrid for those in-between shots near the green can save strokes. But it takes practice to get a good feel for the shot. Work on it next time you’re at the practice green. Once you’ve got a feel for it, try it on the course.