Because the short game can have such a dramatic effect on any golfer?s score many Tour stars adjust their grips for shots close to the green. They tend to move the grip of the club into the ?meaty? part of their right hand and position the handle parallel to the right forearm. (For anyone using the principles of Natural Golf, this is the grip and setup position you are taught for all shots).

The purpose of gripping the club more in the ?palm? of your hand is to eliminate your ?hands? from participating in the shot. With this grip, you want to have what many golfers refer to as ?passive hands? through the impact area of their golf shots. They feel as though their hands do not participate in the striking action. It is a perception. A good perception, particularly in pitching and chipping.

When you are practicing your short game the next time, try to feel as though your forearms assume a leadership role throughout the swing. Resist conscious thought of your hands and of release in pitch and chip shots.

The notion of ?passive hands? and ?moving forearms? encourages a stable left wrist in the impact area. Remember, the biggest reason that people mis-hit short shots is that they collapse their left wrist during impact. It usually occurs when you consciously attempt to scoop the ball into the air by striking it with the right hand.

Focus on your forearms. This will lead to a smooth, consistent stroke that produces more accurate short game shots