Simple tips to improve your striking
June 17, 2010 by publisher · Leave a Comment
- Set up – Without a proper set up, you will not strike the ball correctly. To achieve a proper set up, ensure that you stand with your feet apart at shoulder width. Keep your knees bent and keep the front shoulder higher than the back shoulder. The ball should be on an imaginary line that is perpendicular to the middle spot in between your feet.
- Grip – You are not holding a broadsword trying to hack down an enemy. Don’t be tense and try to have a light grip on the club. This will enable you to achieve a fluid swing and avoid errors like pushing or slicing.
- The Hit – Hitting the ball in the right place will give you maximum results. Your clubface needs to come into contact with the ball just below its equator. The motion should then continue downwards and forward. Ideally the leading edge should hit the turf just in front of where the ball used to be.
- The Lean – The shaft should not be vertical at the point of impact. In fact, it should be leaning forward slightly.
- Got a Divot? – If you followed the preceding steps properly, you should be staring at a short shallow divot. The divot should start just after where the ball was resting. If it begins before that point or is deep, then you are not striking the ball properly.
The Importance of Visualizing
June 4, 2010 by publisher · Leave a Comment
In any sport, visualization plays a key role in a sportsperson’s success. It not only prepares you for what you are about to go through, but it also helps to calm the nerves and assess the situation for what it is. You are more likely to sink a putt if you think of it as just another shot, rather thinking of it as the final winning putt in a golf championship.
Visualization begins at home. It is something that you can do while you are sitting down on your couch. Close your eyes and imagine the scene in front of you. Visualize how you will pick up the club and walk towards the ball. Think about how you should grip the handle, position yourself for the shot, how to assess the state of your body etc. You should also try to feel any changes in the wind and the weather. By going through these processes in the mind regularly, you will start doing it when you are out on the course.
As it becomes second nature for you, you will find that you game improves considerably because you are always getting into the zone. From here on, the improvement comes with better technique and experience. But the base for all this is the visualization in your mind which helps you every shot in the optimal frame of mind. Don’t get rushed or be bothered by anyone making fun of you for doing this, you will be the one laughing when your game hits a groove and the others fall behind.