The easiest stroke in golf is the putting stroke. That’s because it’s the only stroke where a player’s eyes are set directly over the golf ball. With the eyes directly over the ball, a golfer can easily stroke the club straight back and through along the target line, compared to a full-swing path that runs much more like a circle due the fact that the golfer’s eyes are set inside the target line.

Because the putting stroke is the most accurate method of striking a golf ball, many pros use the putting technique on chip shots. The key is to position yourself over the ball in the same manner you would a putt, i.e. eyes directly over the golf ball. Then, grip the club the same way you’d grip your putter, with both thumbs running directly down the shaft. Relax your elbows. If you’re a left-hand-low putter, you can chip left-hand low.

If you don’t already have a hybrid chipping iron in your bag, you can turn your 8- or 9- iron into a putter by tilting it upright so the clubhead is setting on the toe, with the heel up off the ground. By altering the lie of your iron, you’ll have to strike the ball slightly out on the toe to assure a solid hit.

Position the ball back in your stance. Now, move the club back and through on a straight line, and concentrate on hitting down on the ball. By setting up exactly as you would for a putt, your mind will consider it to be just as easy. And it will be.

When chipping in this manner, especially with an 8- or 9- iron, the ball won’t perform as it does when struck by a sand or pitching wedge. The ball will fly much lower and travel with less spin. Therefore, plan accordingly. Aim to land the ball halfway between you and your target and allow the ball to roll the rest of the way, behaving more like a putt than a typical chip shot.

VenusGolf, Inc. was founded by CEO Debbie Steinbach (aka Venus), author of the popular books, “Venus on the Fairway”, and “Venus On The Fringe”. Former LPGA touring pro and a Golf for Women Magazine “Top 50” instructor, Steinbach competed for 11 years on the LPGA Tour and now devotes her time to instruction and motivational speaking plus other activities associated with her company. Venus Golf is dedicated to women’s golf. For more information about Venus Golf and Debbie’s latest 3 part DVD series titled “Venus on The Fundamentals of Golf” go to: www.venusgolf.com