Mastering the Approach Shot in Golf Starts with Your Wrists

“Why do my approach shots always fall short?”
“Why does the direction keep going off?”

If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, you’re not alone.

Short approach shots—especially within 10 to 30 meters from the green—might look easy but often turn out to be harder than a full driver swing. It’s a distance where small mistakes can cost you strokes, and once nerves creep in, it gets even tougher. But what if the root cause was something as small—and fixable—as your wrist?

Let’s talk about how mastering wrist control can completely transform your approach shots.

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1.The Real Reason Your Approach Shots Miss: Overusing the Wrists

Excessive wrist action disrupts clubface control. In short-range shots near the green, even the slightest wrist flick can ruin your contact and direction.

Simply put, when your wrists take over, you lose control over distance, direction, and impact quality.

Approach shot consistency really comes down to how quietly your wrists behave throughout the swing.

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2. Why Body and Arm Connection Matters

You’ve probably heard the word “connection” in golf instruction.
It’s not just a feeling—it’s a mechanical necessity.

Your arms should move with your torso. If your arms act independently or your wrists try to guide the shot, controlling distance becomes nearly impossible.

✅ Key point?
You want to build a rotational swing where your arms and torso move as one. Once you get that, your shots will feel more stable, consistent, and natural.

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3. One Stick, Big Change: Training with a Practice Stick

No need for fancy gear—a simple alignment stick is all you need.

Here’s how:

1. Grip the alignment stick along with your club
2. Align it so it forms a straight line with your arms and club
3. Take slow practice swings—if your wrists break, the stick will hit your side
4. That immediate feedback helps correct the movement

It might look easy, but this drill requires incredible focus. The feedback is instant, and that’s what makes it so effective.

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4. Control Your Wrists, Change Your Shots

It’s honestly amazing how much changes when you start quieting your wrists.

What you’ll notice:

• ✔ Fewer mishits
• ✔ Predictable distance control
• ✔ More accurate contact
• ✔ A big boost in confidence

It might feel awkward at first—like your arms are tied to your torso—but then your swing starts to flow. Your body rotates, the club follows naturally, and the ball goes exactly where you want.

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5. A Practical Routine for Beginner Golfers

Don’t try to master everything at once. If you commit to just 10 minutes a day, you’ll see major progress.

Try this 3-step routine:

• Step 1: Start with short 10-meter approach shots
• Step 2: Focus on wrist control + slow body rotation
• Step 3: Record your swing and review for feedback

The magic happens when your body starts responding automatically—no more overthinking.

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FAQ: Common Questions from Golfers

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The Real Way to Become an Approach Shot Master

Distance control, directional stability, and confident setups—these all improve when you control your wrists. That’s the core truth here.

When I first started wrist-focused training, it felt stiff and awkward. But a few weeks in, my misses started disappearing. Most importantly, approach shots stopped being scary.

And between us? This training method really works. Try bringing a stick to the range tonight—you might be shocked by how quickly your game changes.

Your next approach shot might just be your best ever.