Golf is a seductive, frustrating and beautiful game that entices you to play again and again. I know I was hooked from my first game and became fascinated at how difficult it can be to play well. Like so many players I've searched for the magic ingredient to play consistently well, investing in the latest technology in equipment and fitness regimes in the hope to find the elusive answer. I'm not decrying the benefits of fitness training and equipment, they have their place and benefits. However, failing to understand how to score your best when you're not playing your best is more crucial to shooting lower scores. After all the object of the game is to shoot the lowest score you can. Sounds simple right? In reality this is what sets good golfers apart from your average Joe. Lets be absolutely honest here, we all enjoy the game far more after playing a round and shooting a score below our handicap. No one can say hand on heart they enjoyed playing if they come off the course with an horrendous score. This may sound obvious, but do you truly know how to score low? Have you ever sat down and focused on how you could play your course well? I know I'm guilty of this and have recently been asking myself this question. I'm hitting the ball well but my score is not reflecting this. To be honest this forced me to review my game and create a new program to help golfers out there facing this same issue. So many players become captivated in swing mechanics, hitting the ball as far as they can but give no attention to how to PLAY the game. Players who are able to shoot low scores regularly fully appreciate the elements of scoring low. The good news is this can be adopted by all players, regardless of your handicap, its about getting the most out of your skill, playing to your strengths, knowing when you can attack with confidence and knowing when to back off to eliminate the risks. To score low all you need is good attitude and mental strength and an understanding on the percentages of your game. How well do you know your game? If I sat down with you and asked you some questions about your game, how well do you think you would be able to answer? Be Honest, how well do you really know your game?
How far do you exactly hit the ball? - I'm not talking longest, I'm talking about everyday play on the course. Can you tell me how far you hit each club with accuracy, the carry and roll out? So many players lose out on shots simply because they under club. I'm not talking about mishit shots, they take a club expecting it to go further than in reality
How often do you strike the ball solidly? - Being able to consistently hit the sweet spot will eliminate pulled shots or the dreaded shanks. How often do you have to chip out of the trees because of a mishit shot for example?
What does your natural shot shape look like? Is it a fade, draw, low or high flight? - Knowing your flight pattern will help you navigate a course, giving you more opportunities to hit your target and reduce errors
Which clubs do you hit consistently well? Your favourite clubs will tell you a lot about your game and swing, understanding what these are will help you become a better player. Typically players who prefer woods off the fairway, have a slower swing speed and tend to hit shorter, understanding these mechanics will help you play to your strengths
What skills do you have around the greens? - Are you good at chipping, bunker play, how good is your technique and touch. So many shots can be saved in this area and players who hone these skills shoot lower scores
How well do you putt? - 3 ft, 6ft 20ft? So many players beat themselves up over their putting ability, expecting to nail 6 footers. You might be surprised on the stats for PGA pros whose average for sinking 6 footers is only 50%!!
What is your mental approach to playing? - Do you set yourself high expectations each time you play and then beat yourself up when you don't live up to them? Do you drop your head if the fist few holes don't go well? Do you put extra pressure on yourself to perform in the closing holes?
When do you practice? - How do you practice, what do you practice and how do you assess your regime?
This is just an insight into knowing your game, understanding your strengths and weaknesses is the starting point to shooting lower scores. If you would like to learn more on how to improve, please get in touch and book a session
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