Q: Hi, I’m a decent player (shoot high 70’s / low eighties), but just don’t seem to be getting the consistency I feel I should be getting. I take lessons regularly and play a couple times a week and hit balls in between so I should be playing better, right?
Do you have suggestions for getting more out of my game. I know it’s a pretty generalized question but any suggestions would be appreciated. I’m tired of not getting better!
Frustrated golfer from Wisconsin,
Brad
A: I know where you’re at Brad, since I play also and went through that experience of breaking 80 and playing in the 70’s. The feeling I should never shoot in the eighties again! Such is golf though…
Ok, in order for you to add consistency, which leads to lower scores, I have a specific recommendation. First I’ll ask you if you have a Pre-shot routine.
Do you? If so then add elements to it (which I’ll provide), and if not then you absolutely must design one that’s right for your nature.
There are 3 major components to every solid pre-shot routine:
1) Stand behind the ball looking from the ball toward your desired target area. Your target could be a part of the fairways, a spot on the green or a part of the hole when putting.
2) Visualize the shot trajectory and shape you want for the shot. (Even if you can’t work the ball do this!) It is essential that your subconscious get images of a desired outcome. Notice I didn’t say “words”. I said images. Pictures with feeling in them.
3) Feel the shot/swing needed to create that image. Your practice swing should replicate what your body feels is required to produce that shot. This builds a relationship between your conscious mind, subconscious mind and body which is the doorway to huge improvements in consistency.
4) Step into your address position taking the same number of steps (give or take step) and move at the same pace each time you step into your address position for every shot.5) Make sure you take a few looks at your chosen target. Not “glances” or quick unconscious nods towards the target. I want you to see your target. However feels right is fine but one thing is important: the last thing you do before you move the club away from the ball is take one last look at your target. So after that last look at the target your head and eyes return to the ball and you can begin the takeaway.
6) Although this last recommendation isn’t part of a pre-shot routine, it is a key to added consistency. I want you to finish in balance, regardless of where the shot goes. Just begin to feel the sensation of completing your swing balanced on your front foot. Hold it for at least 1 or 2 seconds. No need to pose for pictures. Just focus on balance.
By doing the above, which doesn’t take long to learn, your consistency will improve measurably. Remember, all my material is based on modeling excellence and doing what the best players in the world do. I began using the above process when I was shooting high eighties and went from a 14 handicap down to a 7 the following season. Then was a 4 handicap the season after that and I attribute it to developing, and using, a solid pre-shot routine exactly as described above.
Take your time and make it yours. Your game will move to a new level, guaranteed.
Wade Pearse
Mental Game Coach
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