I was watching a video by Michael Breed who was a popular teacher on the Golf Channel. The video was about how to create solid contact and consistency. As I watched the video, I realized that I already make most of the adjustments Breed suggests, except moving my weight forward a smidge before starting my swing. I followed his video very easily, then it dawned on me that this video was not for the beginner and possibly for an intermediate player. The reason I think that this is an advanced video is because he has me changing no less than six things when hitting out of the rough. Here, take a look:

Much of what Breed talks about is valuable when wanting to play well out of the rough. However, there is no way a player, even an advanced one, can make six swing adjustments without hitting the range first to practice. I would suggest that once we do practice hitting out the rough, then it is possible to make solid consistent contact. This video is a great lesson for many players; when we change too many things at one time is virtually impossible to be successful.

I cannot not imagine making six swing adjustments without fully understanding what each adjustment is for. Actually, I cannot see me making two changes on the fly. The golf swing just does not work that way. I cannot imagine the number of swing thoughts that would be racing around in my head if I tried.

Don’t get me wrong, sometimes we need to make on the fly adjustments when playing. Usually, these swing changes are because we extricating ourselves from trouble. It is then that an imagination is required to be successful. Rarely, I would suggest that even in very difficult swing conditions will I adjust more that two or three things.

To be fair to Breed, he is not suggesting your implement this video without practice. He is a limited amount of time to get his point across and as such offers a condensed version of how to play out of the rough. My point is that I watch many amateurs try to make multiple swing adjusts just to fail. Then they wonder why things did not work out.

My advice to today is to practice any swing adjustments before taking them to the course. If that is not possible, try to limit the number of changes at any one time to increase your chances for success. As with many things in life, too many changes too quickly on the golf course is a recipe for disaster.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!