Make practice more fun over winter
Editorial Department • Published 22 Dec 2011 13:00
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Liam McCool says making practice more fun is the key to winter training that will pay benefits in summer
Getting motivated to practice during the winter can be tough, however it may help if you see it as making a deposit into your golf account so there is more to withdraw next season when you really want it. Here are some ideas to help make your practice more fun.
Matchplay vs The Driving Range
A great way to improve your tee shots. Pick out two points at the far end of the range to define your target area (approx 50 yards apart).
Play two balls, to win the hole each ball must be within the target, but the second ball has to finish to the right of the first ball. If you are successful you go one up, if not you're one down. Play the front nine in this fashion, then for the back nine change the rules so the second ball has to finish left of the first.
If you can learn to beat the driving range you will hit more fairways with more regularity.
Play "Virtual Golf" on the Range
Make your practice more interesting by playing an imaginary round of golf, its great for your visualisation skills as well.
Picture the first hole of the course laying in front of you, see the fairway straight ahead, the green in the distance and imagine the location of any trees or bunkers.
When you have done this, play the hole - hit your tee shot, estimate where it finished and play your second with the appropriate club.
If it missed the green play a chip and then estimate how many putts you would take.
Play each hole in this style, pick a definite target and remember to use your routine on each shot.
Practice With A Friend - Penalty Shoot Out
Agree which clubs you want to improve i.e. Driver, 5 Iron and Pitching Wedge.
Starting with the driver, define a target area as a goal and play five shots each scoring a goal for each shot on target.
If you are tied after five balls, go to sudden death (just like real football). This creates an edge and trains you to deal with the pressure of hitting a good shot when you really want it.
When the Driver champion is established move to the next club and repeat the game.
May I take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. For next year's golfing season we will be putting together further game improvement articles that can definitely help improve your golf.
To book Golf lessons/Gift Vouchers or any other enquires about Christmas Golf Gifts/ Golf Equipment: Call Enniskillen Pro Shop on 028 66325250 or email liam@thegolfcabin.co.uk
This article appeared in Impartial Reporter 22 Dec 11
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