Thursday, April 17, 2014

How To Develop The Mental Game Of Golf

By Anita Ortega


Golf, as many would say is more of a mental sport than a physical sport. Many attest that it is over 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical, which sounds a lot like exaggeration. However, many do believe that if you do develop a good mental game of golf for yourself then you would succeed greatly in golf.

Many experienced golfer will say that a player is defined by the way he composes his mind game rather than by his swing. An example can be had after viewing many a round of golf with differing players. Some players have great swings but very poor composure, going into expletives and tantrums when something goes wrong. Some are very composed and calm whatever their round outcome. And more often than not, it is the latter player that beats the former in a majority of situations.

The sport of golf is most often described and attributed to in terms of the physical properties rather than the much touted mental aspect. This is so because one can easily see the physical aspects of this sport. One can easily see the swing, the backswing, the grip and stance for example and so these are the ones most commented on and analyzed more often than not.

The importance however of developing your mental strategy cannot be understated. And although not many people or players really rely on it, there are still ways of strengthening it to benefit the overall game and overall performance while on the course.

The best way to develop good mental prowess in this game is for one to get to know him or herself better first. By accepting what one can or cannot do, one can focus more on what can be done and will tend to become a lot calmer. Accepting the fact also that gameplay and results change on a day to day basis can also make you more humble not hot headed on any given time or day.

Learn to visualize the shots before you play them. This is a great process by which others also call visioning. See the shot in your mind and imagine everything about it. Include all the little details like how far, how high and even how you feel when you have hit it. Once you have visualized the shot go ahead and take it. You will be surprised that more often than not, your actual play approximates the one in your head more often than not.

Your mental game is only as good as how relaxed and rested you are. You can only develop a good mind game if you are fully rested and relaxed before playing. You should also be sober. So avoid the sleepless nights and the bottle before any round of golf.

Most importantly of all, go ahead and enjoy the game. Enjoying golf and having fun will do wonders to your mental processes. So go ahead, smile, laugh and swing. Golf is a fun pastime after all. Remember that a positive attitude will do you more wonders than one thousand dry swings to improve your overall handicap.




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