Re-learn How You Play Golf

June 1, 2009 by Trent  
Filed under Baby Boomer Golf Blog

golfer visualizing shotYou may have heard of this swing tip before, but it’s worth repeating until you actually “get it”. I’m talking about playing the game in your subconscious. This is a cornerstone approach that all professional golfers know and practice.

You have probably heard someone throw this saying around, “playing the game is all in your mind”.  It’s something every golfer over 50 should strive to master and here is how to wrap your mind around the concept of playing in the subconscious.

Playing Golf in the Subconscious

Take a look at the breakdown of how you approach your shots: you set up your stance based on a target, take some practice swings…enter the subconscious.  After you have done your pre-shot ritual you can expect to have calculated for most of the potential risks of the shot.  That leaves only visualizing the shot and taking the swing.

Each and every time you swing the club you need to make sure that only one thing is in your mind clean and clear – the target.

Remember, you have already aimed and made adjustments.  Your muscle memory has kicked in from taking practice shots and duplicating that perfect swing should be effortless.  The only thing you need to think about at that point is the target.  Be confident in your technique and the shot will follow through.

This is the power of playing in the subconscious.

Turning Off Your Mind

To take advantage of your subconscious you must truly “turn off your mind”.  That seems like a difficult concept to grasp, but all of the pieces are in place.  You are on the golf course.  There are no distractions save maybe a crisp breeze and the sound of birds chirping.  You have already done your practice swing, you’ve worked out your stance and decided on a suitable target.  Let your surroundings help to quiet your mind.

Relax and take deep breaths.  Continue to visualize your target and you are ready to take your shot. You must remove the swing thoughts and latest tip from your golf magazine. Just play in the moment.

To really grasp the ability of playing golf in the subconscious you will need to practice quite a bit.  The benefits of mastering this skill are innumerable.  Having a strong mind is a decisive factor in winning golf, and a vital asset if you intend to take on competitive golf.

Speak Your Mind

Tell us what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!