Tuesday 4th May 2010

Pre-Shot routine

This weeks golfing tip looks at the pre-shot routine and it’s importance for good scoring.

Each pre-shot routine is different for each golfer and the one I’m about to outline is just a good example. Your routine should help you focus and give you confidence in high pressure moments.

1) Firstly you should take a step back behind the ball looking towards the hole. Take a deep breath and focus. Try and imagine where you wish to hit your ball. Imagine the type of shot you wish to play. You must see it in your mind before you actually play the shot.

2) Select the correct club. Assess the hazards/dangers waiting ahead of you and choose the club that matches with your best strengths. If you prefer to hit a hard 7 iron instead of a soft 6 iron then that’s the shot you should hit.

3) Now pick a spot to aim for. Pick a spot like a tall tree or building in the distance beyond the fairway if it’s a tee shot or if it’s an approach shot to the green select a target past the green in the distance. Next pick a spot in front of the ball about 6-10 inches away that is in line with your target in the distance. This will now help you to line up your clubface correctly.

4) Now make your practice swing. The idea of this is to get a feel for the swing you indend on making. If you have imagined a punch shot into the green then practice a punch shot. Replicate what your mind sees.

5) Finally step up to your ball. At this point you are now fully committed to the shot you have selected. Take  a deep breath or whatever helps to ease any final tension in your body. Then put your club behind the ball and let fly.

This is a standard pre-shot routine. It helps to give you confidence under pressure situations but it also helps you to find a good level of consistency in your golf game. Make your pre-shot routine a matter of habit before every shot and soon you will see improved results in your game.

Remember - imagine the shot, select the best club for your shot, aim, practice what your about to play, relax and commit to the shot.