The main factors in getting the ball up and down is being able to pitch it close to the hole. In order to get the ball close to the hole you must make solid contact in your pitch shots. So many of my students want to talk about every other factor except solid contact. When you make inconsistent contact, you will get inconsistent results.

When you make solid contact your golf ball will react the same every time it hits the green, and you will learn the flight and roll characteristics of your clubs. This allows you to make correct decisions. You can choose the safest landing area, and then choose the correct club to produce the desired shot. When you don't make solid contact, the ball reacts differently every time you pitch the ball, leaving you guessing.

To make solid contact with your pitch shots you must hit the ball first, then the ground, with the shaft of the club leaning forward. The body must turn correctly to accomplish this club position. To help my students make the correct motion I have them use the Impact Master . This is a great training aid that has an extended shaft attached to a wedge. You place the shaft extension left of your left hip at address, and then keep it from hitting your left hip during the shot. The good thing about this aid is the extension is removable and you are left with a really nice wedge. If you have trouble hitting your pitch shots solid, try the Impact Master .