Golf Tips

Why do better players have a consistent routine shot to shot? I think the main reason is for comfort on the golf course. A pre-shot routine breeds confidence. No matter what the situation: the first tee jitters, a small crowd, or an important putt on the 18th hole with all the bets on the line, a routine signals to the brain that nothing is out of the ordinary. This is a huge mental advantage to the better player, because they don't psyche themselves out of a good shot by focusing on how important a putt it is, or how embarrassing it would be to hit a bad shot on the first hole.

What are the parameters of a good routine?

1- A routine is consistent in both what you do, and how long it takes you to do it.

2- A routine begins with a trigger, i.e. tugging on your glove. This tells the brain it's time to go.

3- A routine starts behind the ball, and should involve a practice swing designed to ingrain a "feeling" that you will take with you into the shot.

4- Choose your target, and visualize the shot you want to hit. Start the same distance behind the ball, and approach every shot at the same pace. No rushing or slowing down when there is money on the line, or more pressure.

5- Approach the ball confidently, and swing freely toward your target. Expect to hit a great shot.

Spend some time on the range working on the process of your routine. Develop a consistent and reliable series of thoughts and actions that you do each and every shot. It takes a lot of discipline initially to do your routine over EVERY shot, but eventually it will be second nature.