Pitching

If you use a 1/4 swing, you’ll achieve 25% of your normal distance.

The pitching wedge and the sand wedge
The pitching wedge is actually the 10-iron, the sand wedge is the 11-iron and a 60º wedge can be considered as the 12-iron. The more angle on a club, the faster it will lift the ball and diminish its movement on the green. This is why a sand wedge or 60º wedge are used to pitch to a tight pin.

These clubs are used for short distances, using only a fraction of the swing. This type of swing requires the most amount of practice and training.

As for a complete swing, for a fraction of a swing a gradual and calm downswing needs to be completed to obtain the same fraction of distance. For example, if a complete swing travels 100 yards, a 3/4 swing will travel 75 yards, a 1/2 swing 50 yards, and a 1/4 swing about 25 yards.

All these swings use a light transfer of weight. The lower body performs most of the downswing just like a complete swing. For short distances, the transfer should be minimized by placing a little bit more weight on the foot closest to the hole (left foot for right-handed golfers) when taking the starting position.

During the downswing, keep your wrists straight in order to avoid rapid hand rotation.

If you use a 1/2 swing, stop your hands at about hip level.

During the downswing, there is a smaller transfer of weight. Remember to maintain your extension.