- Practice with intention
Practice your golf swing with intention. Going to the driving range or golf course without a routine and session goals is simply wasteful. Making sure that you are aware of what skills you need to improve on will make going to the course not just fun but beneficial. When you focus on the skills you need to improve on you use “attentional focus” as known as “mind-to-muscle”. This type of focus allows you to consciously enhance muscle fiber recruitment and activation.
2. Set goals
When you go to play a few rounds of golf, you are probably thinking to yourself, “I am going to have a great round”. While this positive attitude can be helpful, setting small goals will serve you in the long run. Setting goals like, clearing the water, successfully using an unfavorable club, or hitting specific yardages will give instant feedback on your practice as well as providing instant gratification. This will, in turn, increase your confidence on the course.
3. Stick with your routines
Having a pre-shot routine helps to improve focus, decreases stress and can help to create a swing that is replicable. Making sure to focus on your pre- and post-shot routines is essential when trying to improve your golf game. Whether these routines take place before the swing or before you even step foot on the course, make sure to implement a disciplined schedule.
4. Stay level-headed
Staying emotionally stable is an excellent tool when it comes to playing. Learning how to focus and remain calm when facing adversity will give an advantage over scoring as well as other players. Being composed while trying to wedge the ball out of a bunker or making sure your putt is properly lined up will keep you focused on your goals for that round.
5. Play for the love of the game
Having goals and expectations for yourself is great and being able to achieve those goals will put you on the path to being a better golfer. It’s important to remember that the reason we love this game is because it is challenging, fun and entertaining. Play golf to challenge yourself, but also play for friendship, enjoyment, celebration, and joy. The worst day playing golf is better than the best day working.