If you want to improve your score, focus on improving your golf short game. This means becoming proficient with your wedge and short irons. While theory would suggest it is easier to hit your target from a shorter distance, in reality, many golfers struggle to get close to the pin when they are less than 100 yards away. A key ingredient to a good short game is your hands. Don’t grip the golf club too tightly and relax as you make contact with the ball. If you practice chipping and pitching, in time you will gain a feel for the ball. A smooth swing and follow through will give you better control and get you closer to your target.
Feb 11
No matter how you slice it, your ball loves to make that right hand turn and go off to parts unknown. Here are some techniques that will keep the slice to the sushi makers at your favorite Japanese restaurants.
1. Get a good grip with your fingers instead of the palm of your hand — when you come down with the swing, you should see a minimum of 2 knuckles of the left hand.
2. In golf, like in poker, knowing when to fold is a good idea. Right around the time of the follow-through, straight-arming it will make that ball turn right faster than Rush Limbaugh.
3. Shoulders right — move left. Don’t aim to the left! You’ll leave your shoulders open. Instead, tilt your shoulders to the right when it comes to the address. Surprisingly, the ball will be forced into the correct route.
Trying these is a crucial first step to solving the slice, and making that ball move straighter. You’re well on your way to saying “sayonara” to the slice!
Dec 08
Why learn to play golf? Golf is a game that tests your patience and determination but also rewards you with exercise outdoors and a great way to make new friends.
Get a set of clubs, new or used (thrift stores and garage sales offer good deals) or at least a driver, putter, 5, 7, 9 irons and sand wedge for practicing.
Check if lessons are offered at a golf course near you and learn some basic moves, such as how to properly grip the club, how to stand over the golf ball, how to swing the golf club and follow through, and how to putt.
Don’t scurry off to the course just yet. After learning the basics, head to the driving range in order to perfect your club and shot selection. Get familiar with the distances and trajectory you can expect from using certain clubs.
Now you’re ready for a 9 hole course, but don’t forsake practicing on the driving range as often as possible.
Perfecting putting and pitching skills, known as the short game, is essential for new golfers. When you feel confident enough, sign up at a local 18-hole golf club and get to know other golfers while you enjoy playing the world’s most popular game.
Oct 02
Whether you are new to the sport and looking for some guidance around the golf course, or simply a frequent golfer seeking out ways to improve your game, chances are you are considering a golf instruction school.
Getting some instruction is highly recommended for new golfers. It’s kind of like reading the instructions before assembling furniture. You want to go in to the task with as much knowledge as possible. However, if you understand the game but want to improve in specific areas, you should ask yourself where exactly you’d like to improve. Do you need to work on your drives? Can your short game be improved at all? What about once you’ve gotten to the green? Don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially when you have the opportunity to get better.
