John Hamarik's Tips of The Trades - Advice from a PGA Pro.

Handling the Pressure of Golf!

Every golfer feels the pressure when the results of a round of golf really mean something, such as in a tournament or during a round with someone he/she wants to impress. Those who can master their "competitive nerves" are the players who perform well no matter what the situation.

Here are the most common reasons for competitive nerves, and some suggestions to help you play well under pressure.

Too much concern about the results. In competitive situations, when you feel the pressure is on, it's easy to think more about scoring than about playing. This tends to tighten muscles, reduce the ability to concentrate, and allows negative thoughts to enter the mind. Our best advice: relax and keep things in perspective. You'll have more fun, and by focusing on playing rather than numbers, chances you will play better.

Adrenaline anxiety. The human body prepares for physical activity by secreting adrenaline into the blood. This shot of adrenaline gives the golfer additional strength and energy, but can also result in first tee jitters. To master the natural jolt of adrenaline anxiety, concentrate on converting that energy into relaxed strength, alertness and positive thought patterns.

New course and new people. Golfers who play one course with regular partners may feel special pressure when competing on a new course amid unfamiliar people. If you have a chance for a practice round, forget about the score and concentrate instead on getting a feel for the greens and how you will manage the course when the tourney starts. When paired with new people, successful golfers do not allow themselves to identify emotionally with the actions of others.

Rules of play. In casual rounds of golf, the rules are generally relaxed, with "gimmees," "mulligans" and improved lies. Tournament play calls for stricter adherence to the rules of golf, a shock to many weekend golfers. To prepare yourself, play tournament rules more often -- even when not in competition. You'll find you make more of those short putts and worry less about the occasional bad lie.