As we embark on a new year of playing the game of golf, I would like to give you some helpful insights on improving your performance on the golf course. My information will not be a series of quick fix tips but rather a focus on how to identify the skills that need development and a plan to do so.
As golfers we are conditioned that reading a tip, watching a video on YouTube or the like will fix our slice and make us better. It at best offers short term solutions and usually results back to the same flaws and frustrations.
There are several steps you must take in order to change your inconsistent ball striking to a playable ball flight.
First is an understanding of cause and effect. For example, if you slice the ball, what is the reason for that ball flight pattern and what is the solution? Swing analysis and changes should be under the watchful eye of a qualified teacher/coach. A good teacher assesses what is good with your swing and then builds around that.
Second, practice what the teacher has told you. In other words, get on the program and stick with it. In the words of Gary Player, “The player who expects a lesson to take without subsequent practice just isn’t being honest with himself or to his professional.” Learning takes time and with practice it produces repetition of the skill and changes begin to occur.
Third, on course transference. When I go out on the course with my students, I do a lot of simulation drills. I have them hit lots of different shots from tough lies to get them focused on playing the game and learning how to better perform on the course.
Work on the skills that cost you the most strokes. Golfers tend to practice what they are good at, and as that is important, you must also identify areas in your game by consistently keeping stats when you play. This information is the key to how you structure your lessons and your practice.
Fourth, taking it to the course. The evidence that you are improving and have learned the skill is taking it to the course. Sometimes, success is no OB shots with that wicked slice, but may be the scores have not come down. In order to score lower, your short game work must be a regular part of your practice sessions.
Fifth, after each round review your stats and write down those things that you did well and the areas of improvement needed in your next lesson and/or practice session.
Enjoy this great game, for it is the greatest teacher of life than any other game in the world!
Best to you,
Dana
