golf imperatives web pdf

TECHNIQUE V MENTAL
The closer to an un compromised technique you are, the better you play. An example is 'golf
course management'. To play competitive professional golf 'course management' as it is
generally taught , does not exist. You either play well or you miss the cut, there is no room to
'lay up' or 'take an iron for safety'. This is one reason why good players sometimes under
perform when playing away from home. The golf course must be attacked and to do this you
need a safe technique. A draw that turns into a hook under pressure will weaken the
performance of a top player. Sure they will play well at their home club in their comfort zone,
but instead of improving when it becomes more important, they struggle because they cannot
rely on their swing.
The classic example is a hook shot proving much worse in a tournament than at the driving
range or playing with friends. The logical correction is to swing the club head more to the
right of the target to stop the ball going left, but this only compounds the problem and adds a
push to the hook which will result in few fairways hit. Scores will be very erratic because when
the short game is good, you will score low, but with an average short game the score will
mount quickly. Sometimes a player will not recognise their technique is failing them as they
blame poor scores on bad luck, concentration or poor course management.
I see the problem as technical and not mental. The following changes will cure the hook and
push to the right.
1. Grip more neutral (previously too weak)
2. Less wrist cock
3. Swing plane (divot) more left
4. Shoulders square (previously closed)
Learning a trusted technique is the first stage of playing to a high level. Once learnt,
performance can be improved by both mental and physical training. When looking for
reasons behind a poor performance always begin with technique.
16 GOLF IMPERATIVES