If you pay attention to how a good golfer sets up his or her shot, you'll probably notice they have some kind of preshot routine. Consistent routine is invaluable before each shot. Why? Because it helps you focus on the task at hand. It also helps you build a positive mental picture which will then help you attain success.
1. Stand behind the ball and look toward the target.
2. Visualize the flight of the ball.
3. With shot in mind, pick a close target to aim towards: leaf, discoloured grass..
4. Aim the clubface to that point rather than distant green.
5. Set up perfect alignment: (club square behind ball, back of left hand faces target, line of toes is parallel with target line, heels are shoulder width apart, left shoulder is higher than right...)
6. Take a deep breath and take a swing!
I always breathe in with my back swing and out with the follow through, because then I feel I have more power in my swing. But that's just me! I also try to make sure I follow through completely, keeping my head down and my hips facing the target at the end. Good Luck!!!!!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Good Setup is so Important
One of the tips my father gave me was the importance of a good setup or address position. A great setup, apparently, is essential to a great swing.
That means, your body alignment has to be square to the line of the ball's flight. You have to be relaxed and perfectly balanced with your chin up (not in your chest) to leave room for your left shoulder to turn in the backswing. This will help to keep your ball go straight. You have to have your back straight and be bent forward from the hips. Your knees are bent but not rigid. Ball position is essential: a ball too far back may result in the ball going to the right; a ball too far forward may result in the ball going to the left. Similarily, the width of your stance is also important: a width too far apart will restrict your backswing, while a narrow width will affect your balance. Of course ball position and width of stance are both influenced by the club used. So it's important to memorize these for each of your woods and irons. Another great tip is the power of a preshot routine, but I'll get into that later!!
Happy Golfing!
That means, your body alignment has to be square to the line of the ball's flight. You have to be relaxed and perfectly balanced with your chin up (not in your chest) to leave room for your left shoulder to turn in the backswing. This will help to keep your ball go straight. You have to have your back straight and be bent forward from the hips. Your knees are bent but not rigid. Ball position is essential: a ball too far back may result in the ball going to the right; a ball too far forward may result in the ball going to the left. Similarily, the width of your stance is also important: a width too far apart will restrict your backswing, while a narrow width will affect your balance. Of course ball position and width of stance are both influenced by the club used. So it's important to memorize these for each of your woods and irons. Another great tip is the power of a preshot routine, but I'll get into that later!!
Happy Golfing!
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