Practicing chipping at home is one of the most effective ways to elevate your short game and consistently lower your scores on the golf course. To chip like a pro, it’s important to focus on drills that build precision, control, and proper technique—all of which can be done with simple equipment and minimal space. One foundational drill that every golfer should begin with is the rudimentary chipping drill. Using a wedge with a loft between 52 and 56 degrees, you can practice hitting 50 chip shots per session, emphasizing good posture with your left shoulder positioned over your front foot (for right-handed players) and focusing on a smooth, controlled swing. This drill ingrains the proper weight distribution and contact needed for reliable chip shots.
Beyond the basics, drills like the Shot One-hop Stop Chip and the Bump and Run help replicate the different types of chip shots required on the course. The One-hop Stop Chip, best executed with a lob wedge, trains you to hit a ball that lands softly and spins to a stop, perfect for delicate shots around the green. The Bump and Run drill, which can be done indoors or outdoors with a 7- or 8-iron, encourages a putting-like stroke that helps the ball roll toward the hole with minimal airtime, essential for tight lies or windy conditions.
To sharpen your accuracy, the Ladder Towel Drill is a simple yet highly effective method. By placing towels at intervals, typically five yards apart, and chipping balls onto each one sequentially, you develop excellent distance control and consistency. Another challenging drill is the Chip-a-Coin Drill, where you aim to chip small coins placed on your mat, pushing your precision to the next level. For balance and stability, the One-leg Balance Exercise is crucial; it forces you to maintain your weight on the front foot during impact, preventing thin or bladed chips.
Incorporating mental routines also makes a significant difference. Visualizing your target and desired ball flight before every shot builds confidence and helps translate practice to the course. More advanced drills like the Hula-Hoop Chip Drill and the “Y” or Triangle Chip Drill improve body alignment and consistency. The Hula-Hoop drill challenges you to land balls inside a 28-inch diameter hoop, boosting accuracy under pressure, while the Triangle Drill helps maintain a consistent swing shape through impact.
For golfers with outdoor space, practicing longer chip shots from 30 to 60 yards, flop shots by opening the clubface, and engaging in games such as the Par 18 Chipping Game add variety and simulate real playing conditions. Even juggling a ball on your clubface can enhance your touch and control.
Altogether, these best at-home chipping drills combine technical precision, physical balance, and mental focus—key elements that professional golfers master through diligent practice. By incorporating these drills regularly into your routine, you’ll develop the confidence and skill to chip like a pro, ready to perform consistently on any course.
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