Here are a couple of golf tips to help players get ready for spring from Chris Bernard, the PGA of Canada director of golf at Emerald Links Golf and Country Club.
Tip One
If you aren't planning a trip down south to play some golf, you can help your upcoming spring game by doing some swing exercises now. Use a club and take some easy practice swings. This will help keep your muscles in "golf shape" and you will be less prone to injury when you do start playing in the spring.
Begin by taking slow small swings for about two minutes and then slowly increase the speed and the length of your swing. If you can do this even a few times a week for 10 minutes, it will make you feel less uncomfortable when you step onto the first tee in the spring.
Tip Two
All golfers hit bad shots and have bad rounds – even with years of practice. Remember, thinking positively can go a long way toward improving your ball striking and lowering your scores. Think one shot at a time and do not let a few bad shots shake your confidence.
Step 1 - Start the round with a positive attitude. Clear your head of any poor performances. You’re on a golf course to have fun playing a game outdoors where you’ll spend time with friends, meet new people or get the opportunity to think by yourself.
Step 2 – Envision the shot you want to hit before you swing. Don’t pay attention the narrow fairway, the water hazard or the sand trap. Instead, think about making the perfect swing and imagine watching the ball soar into the air and then fall perfectly in the centre of the fairway or on the green.
Step 3 – Avoid being too aggressive on your shots. Take each shot slowly and reduce the power you swing with. This may cause your shots to fly a little shorter, but they will be more accurate, setting you up for easier second shots.
Step 4 – Avoid discouragement. Everyone, event the top-ranked players in the world, hit horrible shots. Golf is a challenging game for all players. Some of your shots might end up in the rough or a hazard. Look at the next shot as a chance to redeem yourself, instead of getting discouraged. Adding pressure and disappointment while playing will result in more bad shots. The next great shot will more than make up for any bad shot.
For more details or to book lessons this season, e-mail proshop@emeraldlinks.com or call 613.822.4653.
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