 The truth for many players is that they
inadequately prepare for a round of golf,
unless it is a round during competition.
There is little excuse for this lack of
preparation. Far too many players show up
just a few short minutes before their tee
time, some literally lacing up their shoes on
the first tee box! No warm up, no plan of
action for the round today, no thought to
anything other than to get the ball off the
first tee.
Most players who are attempting to play their
best round of golf understand the importance
of a thorough physical warm up. Proper
stretching, getting the core body temperature
up to loosen muscle groups, and making swings
on the range and short game area all help the
preparation. Similarly, rolling some putts
on the putting green before hand helps as
well. There are many times, however, when
playing casual round that players forego even
these basic warm up elements.
What is also important is to warm up the
mental part of the game, and what is also
underappreciated are some things that can be
done in advance of the round that can help
enhance the quality of the experience on the
golf course.
On the way to the course, listening to music
that is of a smooth and slow tempo can help
create an internal environment that is more
conducive to a smooth tempo in one’s golf
swing. It is extremely difficult for most
people to be driven to the course at a fast
pace, talk or text on the cell phone, race to
the tee box and then be able to execute a
smooth and rhythmic golf swing. Music that
sets the tone can be helpful.
Having a specific warm up routine can also
help, as a player can step to the tee box
feeling as though the “boxes are checked” in
relation to being prepared to play. One of
the greatest causes of competitive anxiety
and loss of confidence is when a player feels
inadequately prepared. Standing on the first
tee knowing that the preparation has been
solid helps reduce first tee jitters and
helps keep confidence as high as possible.
Another important factor in getting the most
out of the round is for a player to have some
goal in mind before beginning the round.
Optimally, this goal would be one that is of
a process nature, rather than an outcome-
related goal. Process goals are things
like: “I will be thorough with all my pre-
shot routines today”, or “I will make sure
that I have full commitment before each swing
I take”, or “I will read my putts from at
least two sides before I choose my line and
speed”. This will put an emphasis on
something that is of value to the player’s
progress, without putting prominence on
outcome goals such as score.
Simply incorporating these very basic tips
can help a golfer prepare adequately, which
will reduce the potential for frustration,
and increase the likelihood of success and
enjoyment during the round.
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