Tom Watson’s Getting Up and Down is a golf guide focused on improving your short game within 40 yards. Written by an eight-time major champion, the book combines practical techniques with lessons from Watson’s career, including his iconic 1982 U.S. Open chip-in. It covers putting, chipping, pitching, and bunker play, emphasizing both mechanics and mental strategies to help golfers save strokes. While some advice reflects 1983 equipment standards, the core principles remain relevant for intermediate and advanced players aiming to lower their scores.
Key Takeaways:
- Focuses on short game fundamentals: putting, chipping, pitching, and bunker play.
- Includes drills for precision, consistency, and confidence under pressure.
- Offers insights into mental strategies and shot selection.
- Illustrated with sketches for clarity, though assumes some golf knowledge.
- Best for players looking to refine their skills, not complete beginners.
If you’re serious about improving your short game, Watson’s timeless advice can make a difference when paired with consistent practice.
Tom Watson / Chipping Practice with the 8-Time Major Champion
Book Structure and Main Lessons
Drawing from his renowned tournament experience, Watson structures his book into clear, focused chapters that combine technical drills with strategic advice. Getting Up and Down is divided into six main sections. The first three chapters form the instructional backbone – covering putting, chipping/pitching, and bunker play. These are followed by three additional chapters on practice routines, equipment selection, and applying lessons to real play situations. Written in a conversational first-person style, the book reflects Watson’s personal approach to shot-making, offering a mix of practical techniques and strategic thinking.
Core Instruction Areas
The instructional chapters dive into the fundamentals of the short game, making them especially useful for golfers who already have a basic grasp of the sport.
Putting takes center stage early on. Watson highlights the importance of a consistent setup, grip, and stroke. He recommends drills that focus on speed control and alignment, encouraging golfers to practice putts from different distances while using feedback to fine-tune their technique. Visualization also plays a key role – Watson stresses imagining the ball’s path to develop touch and build confidence on the greens.
For chipping and pitching, Watson provides advice on choosing the right club, controlling trajectory, and adjusting to various lies and distances. He emphasizes a smooth, controlled swing with a stable lower body and clean contact. This approach helps golfers refine their feel for landing spots and adapt to course conditions, whether dealing with firm or soft greens.
Bunker play gets detailed attention as well. Watson explains how to execute a descending blow into the sand behind the ball, using an open clubface and a committed follow-through. He includes drills that mimic real bunker scenarios and offers tips on stance adjustments and club selection to tackle sand traps effectively – even in high-pressure situations.
Each instructional chapter includes sketched illustrations rather than photographs, making it easier for readers to grasp and remember the techniques.
Mental Game and Shot Selection
Watson doesn’t just focus on mechanics – he also delves into the mental side of the game. He advises golfers to think strategically, prioritizing safe and effective shot choices over risky attempts at heroics. Drawing from his tournament experience, Watson shares tips on maintaining focus and staying calm under pressure. He emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset, especially after mistakes, as a cornerstone of consistent short game performance. To bring these lessons to life, Watson recounts specific shots from his major championship appearances, connecting theory to real-world scenarios.
Other Topics Covered
The final chapters expand on the practical advice laid out earlier. Watson outlines structured practice routines, encouraging golfers to incorporate drills for every short game area. He stresses the value of simulating on-course conditions during practice, making these routines accessible even for those with limited practice facilities.
In the equipment chapter, Watson discusses wedge selection and setup, explaining how to match wedge loft and bounce to a golfer’s swing style and the specific demands of the course. The last chapter focuses on translating practice into real play. Watson offers tips on refining pre-shot routines, adjusting to course conditions, and learning from each shot. He weaves in career anecdotes to make these lessons relatable and actionable.
This well-rounded approach equips golfers with both technical skills and strategic insights, creating a complete guide for improving the short game – from practice sessions to competitive play.
Short Game Techniques and Drills
Tom Watson’s short game drills are all about precision and consistency. His methods are simple, grounded in time-tested principles, and approachable for golfers of all skill levels.
Putting Techniques and Drills
Watson places a strong emphasis on the basics of putting. He advises golfers to maintain a neutral grip and balanced stance, with the hands positioned slightly ahead of the ball. Grip pressure should be light, allowing for a smooth, pendulum-like stroke driven by the shoulders while keeping the head steady. He also recommends standing shoulder-width apart, with the eyes either directly over the ball or just inside the target line for better alignment and accuracy.
When it comes to reading greens, Watson encourages players to take their time. Walk around the hole, examine the putt from multiple angles, and pay attention to details like slope, grass direction, and green speed. These observations help determine the right break and line. For practice, Watson suggests drills such as the “clock drill”, where balls are placed in a circle around the hole at varying distances, and the “ladder drill”, which involves starting with short putts and gradually increasing the distance. Both drills focus on improving speed control and feel for subtle breaks, skills that are just as important in his chipping and pitching techniques.
Chipping and Pitching Basics
Watson highlights the importance of choosing the right club for the shot. For low, rolling chips, he suggests using a pitching wedge or 9-iron. For higher, softer shots, a sand wedge or lob wedge is ideal, depending on the distance and the amount of green available. His chipping setup is straightforward: a narrow stance, the ball positioned slightly back, and hands ahead to deloft the club, giving better control over trajectory. For pitching, he recommends widening the stance slightly and opening the clubface to add loft and spin.
Drills play a big role in Watson’s approach to chipping and pitching. A distance control drill, similar to those used in putting practice, helps players improve accuracy over various ranges. The “gate drill”, which uses two tees or alignment sticks placed just wider than the clubhead, promotes a consistent swing path. For pitching, the “bounce drill” reinforces proper setup and helps players achieve better accuracy and spin.
Bunker Play Techniques
Watson’s bunker strategies are as practical as his other short game techniques. He advises golfers to open the clubface and align their body to the target before stepping into the bunker. The key is to strike the sand about an inch behind the ball, allowing the club’s bounce to slide through the sand and lift the ball out cleanly. Keeping the hands ahead at impact and committing to a full follow-through are essential for success. Hesitation, he warns, can leave the ball stuck in the sand. Practicing in a variety of sand conditions helps golfers adjust their technique for different textures and improve control over trajectory and distance.
Watson’s clear focus on confidence and execution under pressure highlights the value of mastering bunker play through regular practice.
Golfers and instructors alike praise Watson’s short game advice for its clarity and practicality. His book is filled with step-by-step instructions and illustrations that simplify even the most complex concepts. Real-world examples further bring his lessons to life, making them easy for amateurs to understand and apply to their own game.
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Lessons from Tournament Play
Tom Watson brings his short game lessons to life by drawing directly from his experiences in high-stakes tournaments. These real-world examples showcase how his principles hold up under intense pressure, bridging the gap between practice and performance.
1982 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach
A cornerstone of Watson’s teaching is his victory at the 1982 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach, his only U.S. Open title. He devotes several pages to a thorough breakdown of the final nine holes, recounting every key moment and decision. The story builds to the iconic 17th hole, where Watson, tied with Jack Nicklaus, faced a daunting chip shot from thick rough. Against all odds, he holed the chip, breaking the tie and securing the championship.
Watson doesn’t just tell the story – he dissects it. He explains his thought process, from club selection to the mental calculations behind each shot. This level of detail underscores the effectiveness of his techniques, proving they can withstand even the most intense pressure.
Applying High-Pressure Lessons
Watson’s tournament experiences offer more than just memorable moments; they validate his techniques across all aspects of the short game, including putting, chipping, pitching, and bunker play. His ability to stay calm and focused during the final stretch provides a clear roadmap for handling pressure – something golfers at any level can learn from. Whether you’re trying to win a club tournament or break 80 for the first time, his lessons emphasize the importance of combining a composed mindset with sound technique when the stakes are high.
Watson’s success at Pebble Beach highlights a timeless truth: the same fundamentals practiced on the green – setup, swing path, and follow-through – can make all the difference in critical moments. For those looking to refine these classic techniques, How To Break 80 offers drills and video courses inspired by Watson’s enduring short game strategies.
Pros and Cons of “Getting Up and Down”
What the Book Does Well
Tom Watson’s book shines thanks to his straightforward, first-person guidance, which draws directly from his experiences under the intense pressure of professional tournaments. This firsthand perspective adds a layer of credibility and relatability to his technical advice.
One standout feature is the book’s use of Anthony Ravielli’s sketched illustrations. These drawings simplify complex techniques by focusing on key positions and movements, avoiding the potential distractions that photographs might introduce. The result? Golfers can better visualize and understand Watson’s instructions.
Watson doesn’t just stick to the basics – he dives into real tournament scenarios and addresses challenging lies and tricky situations. This makes the book a well-rounded guide for improving your short game strategy.
With over 118,000 copies sold and a 4.0 out of 5 stars rating on Goodreads (based on six reviews), it’s clear that many golfers appreciate the book’s practical advice and enduring insights. These strengths create a solid foundation for understanding where the book might fall short.
What the Book Lacks
While the book is packed with valuable insights, it assumes readers already have a decent grasp of golf fundamentals. Beginners might find the detailed nuances overwhelming, whereas intermediate and advanced players will likely gain the most from Watson’s expertise.
Some of the practice drills Watson suggests are tailored for players with access to specialized facilities. For instance, he mentions scenarios like dedicating part of a course for extended practice sessions – something that’s not feasible for many weekend golfers. That said, the book does include adaptable drills that can work even in more limited practice environments.
Though published nearly 40 years ago, the book’s core principles remain highly relevant. However, advancements in golf equipment and ball technology since 1983 mean that some of Watson’s advice may feel outdated. Readers should approach these recommendations as part of a historical context rather than a one-size-fits-all solution for today’s game.
Ultimately, this book serves as a reference tool that rewards repeated reading and consistent practice. Combining Watson’s time-tested methods with modern resources can help golfers bridge the gap between classic instruction and the demands of today’s game. For example, pairing Watson’s teachings with contemporary tools like How To Break 80 can provide updated equipment advice and multimedia support alongside his timeless strategies.
Pros and Cons Summary Table
Here’s a quick look at the book’s strengths and limitations:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Straightforward, first-person advice from a champion | Assumes readers already understand golf basics |
| Detailed, sketched illustrations make concepts clear | Some drills require access to specialized facilities |
| Real tournament examples offer practical insights | Based on 1983 equipment standards |
| Covers unique scenarios often overlooked in other guides | Less suitable for complete beginners |
| Timeless short game strategies | Demands repeated reading and consistent practice to fully grasp |
| Over 118,000 copies sold with positive reviews | Some practice setups may not be practical for casual players |
Who Should Read ‘Getting Up and Down’?
Best Readers for This Book
If you’re an intermediate golfer or someone deeply committed to improving your game, Getting Up and Down is right up your alley. This book is crafted for players who already grasp the fundamentals of golf and are eager to refine their short game. Tom Watson’s guidance is geared toward sharpening your shot selection and precision within 40 yards of the hole – a range where many amateurs struggle to maintain consistency. However, if you’re brand new to golf, some of the concepts might feel a bit advanced.
For weekend golfers aiming to cut strokes from their scorecards or lower their handicap, this book is packed with practical strategies. Watson’s advice is rooted in tournament experience, offering insights into both decision-making and execution. It’s a resource you’ll likely revisit as your skills evolve, discovering fresh takeaways each time. Golfers who enjoy diving into the mental aspects of the game – like course management, handling pressure, and making smart shot choices – will find Watson’s perspective particularly engaging.
Other Resources for Golf Improvement
While Watson’s book provides timeless lessons, pairing it with modern tools can take your game even further. Platforms like How To Break 80 offer updated resources that complement Watson’s teachings. These include video courses, eBooks, and drills tailored to every aspect of golf.
For instance, the Precision Putting Video Course ($49.00) visually reinforces many of Watson’s putting principles, while the Essential Golf Improvement eBook Bundle ($19.00) delivers drills and techniques you can practice even with limited space. Additionally, the How to Break 80 eBook ($29.00) aligns with Watson’s philosophy, offering detailed strategies to help you lower your scores. By blending Watson’s classic methods with these modern tools, you’ll have a well-rounded approach to improving your short game.
Final Thoughts
Watson’s blend of technical advice and mental strategies offers lessons that stand the test of time. His detailed recounting of the final nine holes at the 1982 U.S. Open showcases how these techniques perform under pressure, making this book a must-read for any golfer serious about improving their short game.
The book rewards dedication, emphasizing the importance of practice, smart shot selection, and a strong mental approach. Even decades after its publication, Watson’s insights remain as impactful as ever. If you’re ready to elevate your short game and embrace a championship mindset, this book delivers the kind of wisdom that can reshape how you approach scoring opportunities around the green.
FAQs
How does Tom Watson’s advice in ‘Getting Up and Down’ relate to today’s golf equipment and technology?
Tom Watson’s advice in Getting Up and Down zeroes in on the essentials of the short game, offering lessons that stand the test of time. Even with all the advancements in golf equipment, his focus on precision, touch, and consistent practice remains just as relevant today. These skills work hand-in-hand with modern tools like high-tech wedges and putters, helping players get the most out of their gear.
While technology has undoubtedly changed the game, Watson’s approach is a reminder that technique and mindset are irreplaceable. His teachings provide a solid base for golfers, blending seamlessly with today’s innovations to help sharpen the short game and bring scores down.
How can I practice Tom Watson’s short game drills in a small or limited space?
Practicing Tom Watson’s short game drills doesn’t require a sprawling golf course; you can hone your skills even in a small space. The trick is to focus on exercises that sharpen your precision and control. For instance, grab a small mat or use a carpet to practice chipping. Set up targets like cups or small objects to aim for – this simple setup can do wonders for your accuracy.
For putting, try a straight-line drill or use alignment aids to fine-tune your stroke. If you’ve got a bit more room, foam or plastic practice balls are a great option for indoor pitching drills. They allow you to work on your swing without the risk of breaking anything. The most important thing? Stay consistent and keep your technique sharp, no matter how limited your space might be.
Can beginners benefit from Tom Watson’s ‘Getting Up and Down,’ even though it’s aimed at more experienced golfers?
If you’re just starting out in golf, you might think Tom Watson’s Getting Up and Down is aimed at more experienced players – and you’d be right. The book primarily targets intermediate and advanced golfers. But that doesn’t mean beginners can’t benefit from it. Watson simplifies essential short game techniques like chipping and pitching, making them accessible for players at any level.
What makes this book stand out is the blend of Watson’s personal stories and actionable advice. Even if you’re new to the game, these insights can motivate you to refine your skills around the greens. By focusing on the basics Watson emphasizes, beginners can build a solid foundation for a more reliable and confident short game.
