It always amazes me how many golfers don't spend time on practicing their short game. Have you ever stopped to think, the aim in golf, is to play the game, in as few shots as possible - right? So that being the case, why do I see people regularly at the range hitting ball after ball, trying to out drive the back of the range. But those same golfers then don't dedicate the same effort to their short game?
Each shot is as equally important as the last one, in reality, a simple 3 foot putt is equivalent to a 300 yard drive. For those of you wanting to improve their game, or reduce their handicap, spending time on your short game will give you the results you're looking for - guaranteed. So especially for you, here's a great short game practice routine I came across recently. Not only will it improve your technique, it also creates a competitive element to replicate playing in a competition, thereby working on your mental game too.
It's called Par 18. You will need your wedges and a putter to play. Simply place 9 balls at random around the chipping area, giving you different distances and stances. The idea is to hit each ball onto the green and then putt the ball into the cup. You are aiming to par each one, that's one chip followed by one putt to score 18. Using a scorecard write down each score to replicate playing in a competition. You can chose to play against a friend, to introduce a competitive element, or you can take your score and try and improve next time you practice.
You will be amazed how many shots this will save you over a short period, give it a go and let me know how you get on.
If you would like to learn more about the mental side of the game please get in touch or check out our other blogs, there's something in here for everyone.