I do not know about you, but I am a morning person. I enjoy getting up at oh-dark-30 and experiencing the morning sunlight spread joy effortlessly to the world. As a golfer, when the sun is shining we are ready to play. I understand that there are exceptions, but I choose to stay in my nirvana for as long as possible. My affinity for mornings also transcends into my golf game where I have enjoyed the rounds most when playing in the early morning. The serenity of looping a golf course with very little sensory interruptions (except for nature of course) I actually feel my game and relish that for a few stolen moments I am in my bliss. Unfortunately, this zen type scenario does not always equate into my best scores. Actually, it rarely does and the morning glory is not best for my scores!
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Mental Breakdowns Can Be Avoid Or Can They
Slowly dropping my handicap index came with many challenges, both mental and physical. The physical challenges were overcome (for the most part) through training, practice and more practice. I do not consider myself and elite golfer even with a low index, but I think I have some game. Most of my successes can be attributed to physically changing my swing, grip, stance, and tempo. As I stated in previous articles, many of these physical skills are intertwined and one cannot be changed without affecting the others. The mental side of my improvement was not as simple or as easily defined. I often wonder if my mental breakdowns were avoidable or was it part of the journey to a lower handicap index.
Continue readingOuch! A Golf Swing That Hurts!
Have you ever hit a golf ball that hurt? I have many times and I have to say that it is not my favourite time on the golf course. There were several times when I had no choice because I hit a hidden rock, root or loose impediment. These shots usually damage my club a bit and are shots I hope I will never do again. The other shots that hurt are associated with playing conditions. There is more to this story because my preparation for playing might have been a bit ill conceived.
Continue readingOur First Dusting Of Snow
Winter is officially here! Up until now we have experienced higher than normal temperatures that allowed for more golf (for some) and comfortable temperatures for winterizing our property. I still have a few more chores, but that is normal because there is always something to do around here. Having said all that, with the first dusting of snow a switch changes in my brain that directs my thoughts to keeping my golf passion alive for the next six months. Mostly, I will write, train and hit balls in my DIY driving net. This transition is the same as every other year with one minor exception, I am looking a hickory golf more and with great interest. Hickory golf is not all encompassing, but it allows me to focus on other golf related things as I nestle down for a long winter’s nap.
Continue readingRushing Your Golf Swing For No Reason
Golf is a game of tempo. There is no one correct tempo that fits everyone’s game, but there is that one correct tempo that fits your game. I have one as well and I know when I am in the groove by how I feel hitting through the ball. To be fair, my tempo does fluctuate slightly from round to round, but for the most part it is very consistent. What I do find frustrating during a round is when I rush my shot for no reason. It dumbfounds me when it happens because this wayward shot comes out of left field and usually disappears as quickly as it arrives. Regardless, any rushed shot for no reason has no place in my game and I forbid it from ever coming back!
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The Grateful Golfer 