Whats your settle down routine?

[Mark_G]

After realising yesterday that it was another round where I played much better on the back 9, I think the reason is due to timing, going way too fast in my swing until I fall apart and decide to go much slower, and hole by hole it all comes together around the 10th hole. How can I get into the correct frame of mind to relax and play at the correct pace for me. The range seems fine before the round but as soon as I see the long fairway, I seem to rush everything. Any advice would be gratefully received. Thanks, Mark

 

[HawkeyeMS]

Since you only started playing last year I'd say a lot of it will just come with time as you get used to playing. However, my recommendations would be to do everything before your round at a leisurely pace, get up early so you don't have to rush out of the house, leave plenty of time to get to the course. For a comp I like to be there an hour early. Take your time warming up. Basically don't rush anything before your round.

 

[Imurg]

Breathe deep and slow. Take your time - not too much though!
Remember, Golf is primarily there for enjoyment - take the pressure off.

 

[MashieNiblick]

Arrive in plenty of time, not just at the course but on the first tee. Seen people arrive early, get distracted (chatting or putting on the pratice green) then have to rush to the tee and duff their drive (yes I do mean me). If I have to rush before that first tee shot it takes ages for me to settle into a good rhythm.

Also develop a pre-shot routine that doesn't take forever, that gets you calm and focussed and ready to hit and that you follow every time.

 

[drawboy]

Play your own game! even if in a 4 ball better ball, play your own game, don't go for shots you know you cannot play. If you cannot blast it over a certain bunker or if you cannot reach a par 4 in 2 then don't try. By playing to your strengths you will have more success and better scores without all of the stress.

 

[Region3]

I read a tip once saying that if you suffer from rushing your swing to approach the ball almost in slow motion.

I don't mean walking down the fairway, but if you look at your shot from behind the ball before you hit it, make that approach really slowly.

It gets your body into slow relaxed mode, and has worked for me if I ever notice I'm swinging to quick.

 

[AuburnWarrior]

One of the best tips I've read on here and one that I use myself is on the backswing count 1 - 2 - 3.

It really helps with tempo and rhythm.

 

[HomerJSimpson]

I tend to get there about an hour beforehand and try hit some practice balls. Not too worried about direction (it's not a practice session) but look only to loosen the muscles and find a rhythmn and tempo. Ironically in the roll up yesterday I didn't bother as it was raining and I played awaful and my swing was so quick and oput of kilter.

Once I've hit some balls I'll hit a few chips and putts, get my card (comps) and double check I've got everything I need and then get to the tee 10 minutes before the off.

On the course, try and find a pre-shot routine that works for you. It can't be a forced thing and has to be natural or it doesn't really work. Once you've found something (maybe play around with the idea at the range) stick to it regardless. It gives you something consistent on every shot.

I've also got a tour tempo CD which basically are musical trakcs with distinctive beats in a 3:1 tempo which is great for getting a long smooth takeaway and crisp downswing. I've neglected it recently and I'll be goig back to it again

 

[Mark_G]

Thanks for the advice Gentlemen, I am going to the range tomorrow and will try to use these tips to bring some inner control to my swing. I will let you know if it works on Saturday.

 

[Mark_G]

Well, just got back from the range and saw a big improvement in my swing, much more uniform and precise, the ball went straighter and longer so very happy. Now to try the same thing on the course.

 

[Mark_G]

Just back from a second night on the range, and absolutely fabulous results, thanks so much for the advice, looking forward to two rounds at the weekend.

 

[JustOne]

One of the best tips I've read on here and one that I use myself is on the backswing count 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10 - 11 - 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 - 16 - 17 - 18 - 19 - 20 - 21 - 22 - 23 - 24 - 25 - 26 - 27 - 28 - 29 - 30 - 31 - 32 - 33 - 34.....

It really helps with tempo and rhythm.

Fixed that for you Dave