Inside 50 Yards

No matter your skill level, improving your short game will lower your scores significantly. In this opening video, Butch Harmon discusses pitch shots up to 50 yards. He covers the setup and swing keys, but also strategic elements like target and club selection. Don’t miss his key move on the downswing—it might just be the piece you need to elevate your wedge play.

Pitch shots from greenside rough can be daunting, but most players make them more difficult than they have to be because they try to fight the grass. A few simple setup and swing adjustments create the steepness needed to catch the ball as cleanly as possible. Here, Butch teaches the technique and mind-set required to make these tough shots simple.

Perhaps the simplest shot around the green is the standard chip from the fringe, yet a lot of players struggle with it. In this video, Butch describes the importance of the pre-shot routine for promoting the right positions at impact. He also discusses club selection (let the shot determine the club) and the destructive instinct to lift the ball. Chipping can be as easy as it looks.

Most golfers hate the sand, yet tour players would rather have a shot from a bunker than from greenside rough. Pros know the bunker shot is more predictable, if you understand how the club should work through the sand. Here, Butch Harmon discusses using the bounce on a sand wedge, pre-setting success at address, and producing enough speed to get to the green.

Putting from long range is much easier when you understand how to regulate your stroke to control distance. The common fault of swinging the putter shorter and faster kills feel. In this video, Butch shares his simple routine for approaching long putts, plus how to practice them. You’ll quickly learn to lag the ball closer to the hole and get down in two putts.

Of all the scary shots around the green, the simple three-footer—be honest!—can be the scariest. In casual rounds, short putts are usually given so when players have to putt out, it can be a nerve-racking experience. Here, Butch Harmon demonstrates the simple keys to short putting and shares his best tips on how to remove the fear and step up with confidence.