How to improve your pre-shot routine

Welcome back golfers! Today's post will be based on the importance of a pre-shot routine and how developing the fundamental mind set in order to achieve the dream end result. The pre-shot routine will allow you to visualise and feel the stroke you are aiming to play and finish with the excellent finish with the correct tempo and rhythm when you step up to the ball.  

Do you stand on the driving range and hit incredible golf shots but on the course, you aren’t hitting the ball as well? This is down to you not overthinking on the driving range whereas on the course there is added pressure from other players and challenging shots which bring the ‘what if’s’ which can hinder any golfers mind set and not guarantee that desirable soaring score.

When standing on the first tee box you should try and develop your mind and body into the engagement phase, this means focus on your shot as well as your swing and don’t worry about those around you, imagining the trajectory and the ball stance which allows you to make that sweet connection between ball and club. During the practice swing, clearing your mind and swinging the club slow can relive the other thinking empowerment which the mind has. Within the game of golf, you need to be able to analyse the shot and also be creative, when doing this you unlock the power of your brain and the ability to use the right side (creative side) and the left (analytical side) which can separate you from the rest of the playing field. Unleashing that ‘athletic’ ability to portray that admirable swing can not only lead to a tremendous result but also walking away with the positive mindset of a good player.

Do you ever approach your shot and feel as if something doesn’t feel right? Take a step back re-feel your swing and visualise that shot, if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t! When standing up to take the swing, ensure that the ball is in the correct position in the stance and having the confidence to take those daunting approach shots with determination will allow your body to move freely through the ball and give you that more relaxed and stress-free finish.

As a golfer myself I enjoy getting out and walking around with other players and having multiple conversations but when it comes to my shot, I switch myself into the ‘golf mind set’ where its only me, the club and the preferred shot. For many golfers each pre-shot routine will vary to match their game and ability, making sure the pre-shot routine fits your game is crucial as well as knowing the distance and how far roughly you hit the ball, I recommend using a range finder or a Garmin to help you with this as they give accurate yardages to the green and will allow you to get comfortable with the club you have selected and how easy or hard you need to hit the ball to reach the pin, having a rough idea of how far you hit each club will allow you to judge and feel confident when coming through the ball and give you the opportunity to play to your best.

Hopefully this post will help you with your pre-shot routine and give advice on how to develop the crucial mind set of any golfer at any ability level, remember if you feel under pressure take a step back, get another feel for the swing and play that dream shot. Top tip - ‘pressure is only for tires!’