Steve Bosdosh: Approach Shots

In this video, we will be discussing golf approach shots and how to execute them effectively. Approach shots can be challenging for many amateur golfers, as they require a different technique than a full swing or a chip shot. The key to a successful approach shot lies in finding the right rhythm, minimizing tension, and maintaining a good feel for the club. Let’s dive into some tips and techniques for approach shots.

Understanding the Partial Swing

Approach shots are considered partial swings, which means they require a different approach compared to a full swing. Many golfers struggle with these shots, resulting in fat shots or thin bladed shots. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to understand the dynamics of a partial swing.

Hitting a Higher Trajectory Shot

To hit a higher trajectory approach shot, you can use a club with more loft, such as a sand wedge or lob wedge. In this video, the instructor demonstrates using a 54-degree wedge to hit a higher shot to the back left pin. The key is to make a similar swing to your full swing, but with a change in loft. By making a nice rhythmic motion and focusing on the follow-through, you can achieve a higher trajectory shot that lands softly on the green.

Executing a Lower Trajectory Shot

For a lower trajectory approach shot, you’ll want to use a club with less loft, such as a gap wedge, pitching wedge, or even a 9-iron. The goal is to hit a bump and run shot that drives the ball back onto the green. This is particularly useful when dealing with a green complex with a false front, where hitting a high shot could result in the ball rolling back down to your feet. By taking less loft and making a half shot, you can achieve a lower trajectory shot that bounces and skips up onto the green.