Short game expert Dan Grieve explains how to eliminate thinned chip shots by moving the low point of the arc forward. He demonstrates essential setup adjustments, the 'Release 1' technique for lower flight, and three specific drills—including the cross-handed method used by Matt Fitzpatrick—to ensure crisp, ball-first contact.
Position the ball inside the right heel and keep the sternum two inches ahead of the ball to move the low point forward.
Avoid tilting the trailing shoulder down; level shoulders help prevent hitting behind the ball and thinning it.
Adopt 'Release 1' where the butt of the club points to the left hip after impact, keeping the leading edge down.
Use a 2/3 backswing to 1/3 follow-through ratio to maintain control and avoid over-releasing the club.
Lower lofted clubs (like a 52° or 9-iron) are safer for thinned shot sufferers than high-lofted wedges.