The duffed chip is a shot that many golfers struggle with, and particularly in the build up to the Spring is a problem I fix daily. In my opinion the duffed chip is caused by 2 key factors.
The swing arc reaching its lowest point behind the ball. This is often caused by a lack of body rotation through impact or excessive side bend (where the spine tilts away from the target).
Not using the bounce effectively. The bounce is the angle between the leading edge and back edge of the clubs sole. When it is used correctly, prevents the leading edge digging into the ground.
Here are some simple ideas that may help you abolish this disastrous shot from your game.
Ball position more central, this will help to create a shallow angle of approach which will prevent the leading edge of the club from digging in.
Weight distribution, 60% of your weight favouring your left side. This will ensure the low point of the swing arc is ahead of the ball creating a ball/turf strike
Hands level, a common issue I see with players who struggle around the green is excessive shaft lean towards the target. When the hands are pushed in front of the club head, less loft and bounce will be presented at impact making it easy for the leading edge to dig into the turf. Getting the hands level with the club head will allow the sole of the club to glide along the turf rather than digging in therefore making your margin of error far greater.
Shoulders parallel with the floor, this will prevent you from getting into excessive side bend (where the spine tilts away from the target) which can often cause the low point to move backwards resulting in striking the ground before the ball.
In the backswing, allow the forearms to rotate slightly earlier than they would in our full swing. This will increase the amount of loft and bounce presented at impact. When the shaft reaches parallel with the floor, a good checkpoint is to see the toe end of the club pointing straight up.
Body rotation in the downswing is essential for consistent ball striking and good distance control. A simple swing thought is to imagine the left shoulder moves behind you in the downswing. This will move the low point of the swing arc ahead of the ball creating a bull/turf contact whilst also allowing you to maintain acceleration through the hitting area which is key for good distance control.
Give these tips a try and see how many shots YOU can save around the green.
