How to Implement a Pre Shot Routine in Golf

Shakespeare once wrote, “To thine ownself be true.” Nothing makes greater sense when you assess your options on the golf course. It pays to have a good handle on your abilities and realize there are only a few people in the world who are capable of hitting shots like Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson. Keep this thought in mind as you implement a pre-shot routine in golf. Here are the steps you should take to make the most of your game as you prepare to make a golf shot.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Stand with the ball between you and the hole. With your abilities in mind, decide the type of shot you intend to make. Now, close your eyes and envision the flight of the golf ball. It makes sense that your body will only do what you have in mind.

2. Now that you have decided what type of shot you would like to hit, you need to choose what club you will hit. Above all else, make sure you are comfortable with the shot you have chosen. For example, let's say you are not at your normal distance for a particular club and you must choose to hit one club hard or the other more easily. Choose the club that you are more likely to hit well.

3. After choosing your club, your next task is to pick a target. If you are about to hit a tee shot on a par 4 or 5, there are two factors that come into play: hazards that will come into play if your tee shot is errant, and your tendency to hit the ball to the left or to the right. For example, if you generally hit a fade or slice, and there is water or out-of-bounds stakes on the right, pick a target on the left side of the fairway. If you are approaching the green, the theory is much the same. For example, if there is a yawning sand trap in front of the green, Hit an extra club to be sure you can clear the hazard. In both cases, after you have chosen your target, pick a spot about a foot in front of your ball that is between it and the target, which will help you properly align your club head.

4. It is important now for you to take your practice swings. Either behind or beside the ball, simulate the swing you want to make, given the type of shot you are trying to accomplish. For instance, if you're about to hit a high shot, practice that. If you envision a low shot, like hitting the ball into a headwind, make believe you're hitting that shot. If you do this, you will reaffirm your commitment to the shot.

5. It's time for you to address the ball. By now, you should be committed to the shot you're about to execute. Your set-up can include waggles, taking back the club to check for plane, whatever; but it is important that you do the same thing every time you step up to the ball. Then put the club next to the ball, line the ball up with your target, and let it fly.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!