How to improve your approach game in golf

If there’s one part of the game that separates good golfers from great ones, it’s the approach. Getting close to the green with accuracy, control and strategy is not just about technique — it’s a combination of knowledge, decision-making and focused practice. At Golf Club Son Servera, we see it every day. The approach shot is where the hole is decided... and often the entire round.

In this article, we’ve put together a complete guide to help you sharpen your approach play. From technique and shot types to club selection, distance control and mindset — everything you need to turn your approach from a weakness into a true strength.

What exactly is an approach shot?

The approach is the shot intended to leave the ball as close to the hole as possible, usually from a distance of 20 to 100 metres. It’s not your tee shot, and it’s not your putt. It’s that second (or sometimes third) shot that should set you up for a birdie chance — or at least a comfortable putt for par.

But not all approaches are the same. You might play a high, soft pitch, a low-running chip, a backspun wedge, or a recovery shot from the rough or even from a divot. The approach is a broad category within the short game that demands a diverse toolkit of technical and strategic skills.

Why the approach matters so much

For amateurs and professionals alike, the approach is a shot of both opportunity and risk. A solid approach can repair a poor tee shot, save an unlikely par, or leave a tap-in birdie. On the other hand, a mistimed approach can easily lead to a double bogey.

And the numbers don’t lie: the short game is where most strokes can be saved. The difference between a golfer who shoots 90 and one who shoots 80 often comes down to how they handle shots from inside 100 metres. At Golf Club Son Servera — with our tree-lined fairways and well-guarded greens — mastering the approach is key to scoring well on our course.

Approach technique: key fundamentals

1. Stance and alignment

Position your feet slightly closer together than in a full swing. Your weight should favour your lead side (around 60–70% on the left foot for right-handed players), with your hands just ahead of the ball. This promotes a downward strike and clean contact.

2. Controlled swing with consistent tempo

Power isn’t the goal — precision is. Use a shorter, crescent-shaped swing with gradual acceleration. The key is a smooth, repeatable rhythm, avoiding both deceleration and over-swinging through impact.

3. Crisp, descending contact

One of the most common mistakes is trying to “lift” the ball into the air. Instead, focus on compressing the ball against the turf with a firm, descending strike. Get the technique right and the loft of the club will take care of the height.

Choosing the right club: which wedge or iron?

The club you choose will affect the flight, spin and trajectory of the ball. Here are some general guidelines:

• 9 or 8 iron: For low, running shots from just off the green.
• Pitching wedge (46°–48°): Great for mid-range shots with a moderate carry and roll.
• Gap wedge (50°–52°): Useful for bridging the gap between your pitching and sand wedges.
• Sand wedge (54°–56°): Ideal for bunker play, but also excellent for high, soft shots from rough or soft lies.
• Lob wedge (58°–60°): The most technical club in the bag — perfect for maximum height and spin, but requires finesse and confidence.

As a rule of thumb: the more lofted the club, the higher the ball flight and the less rollout. So, your choice should be based on the type of green, the wind conditions, the landing area available, and any obstacles in the way.

Controlling distance on your approach

A lack of distance control is one of the most common issues among golfers at every level. Here’s how to gain mastery over it:

1. Create a reference routine

Work with three standard backswing lengths (e.g. 9:00, 10:30 and 12:00 positions) and match them to known distances with each wedge. Repeat and rehearse until each movement feels familiar and predictable.

2. Keep your setup consistent

Unintentionally changing your stance width or ball position can alter your club’s loft. It’s best to keep your setup the same and adjust only the length and pace of the swing.

3. Develop feel and tempo

Great golfers don’t rely solely on technique — they also train their feel. A simple but effective drill is to hit three consecutive shots with the same club, altering only the rhythm. Observe how the distance changes and learn to use that to your advantage.

Types of approach shots: adapt to every situation

High pitch with spin

Ideal when you need to stop the ball quickly. Open the face of a sand or lob wedge slightly, choke down on the grip and make a steep swing. Commit fully — don't hold back.

Chip and run

Perfect on fast greens. Use a 7 or 8 iron, place the ball towards the back of your stance, make a putting-style motion and let the ball roll out to the hole.

From the rough

Long grass will interfere with the strike. Choose a club with more bounce (such as a sand wedge), close the clubface slightly, and accelerate through the ball to avoid getting stuck in the turf.

On a slope

Adapt your body to the incline. Tilt your shoulders and hips in line with the slope. This adjustment prevents errors in contact, direction and ball flight.

Mindset: the invisible ingredient of the approach

A great approach isn’t just physical — it’s also mental. Keep these key tips in mind:

• Visualise the entire shot before you set up. See the trajectory, the bounce and the rollout.
• Set a realistic target. It won’t always be the pin — sometimes a safer landing spot on the green is smarter.
• Don’t change clubs at the last second. Indecision leads to tension.
• Trust your swing. If you’ve done the work, there’s no reason to doubt. Confidence breeds consistency.

Practise your approach in real conditions

At Golf Club Son Servera, we offer dedicated short-game areas where you can practise your approach with precision and focus. Our PGA professionals provide individual coaching and technical analysis to help you refine your approach game — arguably the most decisive part of your round. Come and practise, compete in one of our tournaments, or simply enjoy a round among pine trees and sea views. Book your tee time today and take your approach game to the next level.