Golf Tips: Make It Routine

As an experienced player, you may think you have a preshot routine that works. But does it really? If not, it might be time for some routine refinements. Don't simply mimic what the pros do; an effective preshot routine should fit your temperament, game, and pace of play. The key is knowing what to include and what to avoid.

What To Include

According to GOLF Magazine Mental Game Consultant Dr. Richard Coop, there are three elements to all good preshot routines: an obvious physical signal, an intermediate target, and a deep, cleansing breath.

1. Start with a physical gesture, something to draw your concentration inward and tell you it's time to get started. It can be as simple as tugging at your shirt sleeve, tapping the clubhead on the ground, or reattaching the Velcro on your glove.
2. Select an intermediate target, such as an old divot lying between your ball and the target, and aim the clubface at it. Besides improving alignment, this step signals the first psychological commitment to the shot.
3. Take a deep breath just before making the swing. Involve your entire upper torso, which will relax the arms and reduce tension.

According to Dr. Coop, many golfers have perfected some common, but not very useful, preshot actions. If these sound familiar, purge them from your routine.

They include taking one or more practice swings without thinking about the shot; if it's not a true dry run, it's meaningless. Making your physical signal an unconscious gesture, such as flicking a cigarette butt aside, is also ineffective. Like tying your shoes or brushing your teeth, you do it without thinking, which disqualifies it as an action that sharpens your concentration.

Similarly, taking quick, shallow breaths does nothing for relaxation, and repeatedly looking back and forth at the flagstick does nothing to hone your aim. Kicking these habits will make your preshot routine a true asset to your game.