Nina Caldwell
Golf is a complex sport that requires a lot of practice and dedication to master. It can be challenging to return to the game after taking a break, whether it's due to work, family, or other commitments. Returning golfers often experience a loss of touch and feel for the game, especially in their short game and putting skills. Nerves and anxiety about performance can also affect the mental aspect of the game. However, there are several strategies that can help golfers get back into the swing of things, such as focusing on fundamentals, practicing grip and swing mechanics, and adopting a relaxed mindset. With patience and persistence, golfers can regain their skills and confidence even after an extended break.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Feelings | Hands and arms feel weak |
| First steps | Work on mechanics at home |
| Practice | Hit higher lofted clubs first |
| Short game | Putting and chipping |
| Drills | Tee up five balls in a row on the range |
| Swing | Lighten your grip |
| Anxiety | Get to the course early |
| Warm-up | Focus on holing at least 20 short putts |
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What You'll Learn
Work on your short game, including putting
If you haven't golfed in a while, your short game, especially your putting, will likely have suffered the most. Here are some tips to help you work on and improve your short game:
Drills and Practice
Before you head to the course, try this simple drill: find a tennis shoe and place it on the floor. Address the shoe's heel with your putter and try to "putt" the sneaker, giving it a good pop to move it forward a few inches. This drill will help you feel a solid strike, promoting a forward-leaning shaft and a flat left wrist upon impact. Spend time on this drill, and your feel for proper impact will improve significantly.
Technique and Strategy
When executing shots near the green, each shot requires a different strategy and technique. Understand the basic rules and guidelines for each shot type. For instance, distance control is crucial; the length of your backstroke directly impacts the speed and distance of your shot. Keep your body and weight still and balanced throughout the stroke.
When you need to hit the ball high, allow your body to follow through so that your back heel comes up. This pivot will help the clubhead glide underneath the ball, launching it high with spin. Conversely, when trying to get the ball airborne, you must hit the ground. Hit down on the ball to make a divot, which will get the ball up in the air.
Calibration and Consistency
It is beneficial to chart your distances with each club. Calibrating your short game shots can make a significant difference, allowing you to rely on precise numbers instead of just feel. Consistently practice your short game, but ensure you practice with purpose and focus. Mix up your practice sessions, trying different shots and clubs to improve your overall performance.
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Focus on your grip and swing
If you're getting back into golf after a long break, it's important to focus on your grip and swing. Here are some tips to help you get back into the swing of things:
Grip
The grip is crucial as it's your only link to the club. There are three standard grips: the overlapping grip, the 10-finger grip, and the interlocking grip. Try each to see which suits you best. The right grip will depend on your body and range of motion, so take time to find your natural grip.
To find your natural grip, stand erect with your arms at your sides and grip the club. This is your most natural lead-hand position. Point the club out in front of you and rotate the handle as if turning a doorknob. You should feel increased comfort and range of motion.
Double-check that your lead-hand grip matches your lead-hip mobility. Place your trail hand on the handle, get into a "dynamic impact" position, and check your results. You want to see if there are any gaps between your fingers—there should be none.
The finishing touch is to shift your index finger down the grip slightly, which will act as a trigger. The grip pressure should be light, just enough to stop the club from moving during your swing.
Swing
Before playing, tee up five balls in a row on the range. Hit the first at 40% of your maximum, increasing your speed with each ball until you're swinging hardest and fastest at the last. Hold your finish for a count of one or two before moving on to the next ball.
Remember to relax and swing the club without fear. Take a deep breath and let go—it's fun!
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Practice with higher lofted clubs first
If you haven't golfed in a while, it's a good idea to start practising with higher-lofted clubs. Loft refers to the angle of the clubface, which determines how the ball will behave when struck. Higher lofted clubs have a more horizontal face, which produces a higher shot with more backspin and a steeper angle of descent. This results in a higher shot that doesn't roll out as much upon landing.
Higher lofted clubs are generally easier to use and more forgiving, making them ideal for beginners or those who haven't played in a while. They can help you get the ball in the air more easily and improve your launch conditions. For example, a 5-wood or 7-wood can be a great alternative to long irons, offering better spin characteristics and ball flight. Hybrids are also higher-lofted and can be easier to hit, making them perfect for longer courses.
When choosing a golf club, it's important to consider your skill level and swing speed. Beginners and those with slower swing speeds often benefit from higher lofted clubs, as they can achieve optimal launch conditions more easily. Additionally, if you're playing on soft fairways, a higher lofted club can prevent the ball from digging in.
Practising with higher lofted clubs can help you regain your feel for the game and improve your impact. It's a great way to build confidence and break out of a slump. By starting with higher lofted clubs, you can focus on your technique and gradually work your way back to a lower loft as you improve.
Remember, the key to improving your golf game is to relax and have fun. Don't be afraid to swing the club; you might be surprised at how well you can play even after a long break. Combining a relaxed mindset with the right choice of clubs will help you quickly get back into the swing of things.
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Get to the course early
Getting back into golf after a long break can be nerve-wracking. One of the best things you can do is get to the course early and give yourself plenty of time to warm up and calm your nerves before teeing off. Aim to arrive at least an hour early to give yourself time to check in, get settled, and practice before your game.
Start your warm-up by heading to the putting green. Focus on holing short putts to build your confidence. You can also try a drill recommended by Golf Digest: place a tennis shoe on the floor and use your putter to try to "putt" the sneaker, giving the back of it a good pop to help you feel a solid strike.
Next, tee up five balls in a row on the range and hit them in succession, starting at 40% of your maximum power and increasing your speed with each ball until you're swinging at almost full power on the last ball. Hold your finish for a count of one or two before moving on to the next ball. This will help you find a tempo that will serve you well on the course.
If you're still feeling nervous, try to quiet your mind by focusing on your grip. As Ben Hogan said, "Good golf begins with a good grip." While you're warming up, pay attention to your grip pressure and make adjustments as needed. For example, if you're hitting from the bunker, try an ultra-light grip, and if you're in the deep rough, grip the club more firmly.
By getting to the course early and taking the time to warm up and center yourself, you'll set yourself up for a more enjoyable and successful round.
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Try to relax and not overthink
Golf is a game that requires a lot of practice and precision. It is natural to feel anxious about your performance if you haven't played in a while. Here are some tips to help you relax and not overthink when you get back to the golf course:
Relax your mind and body
Take several deep breaths before you start playing. Deep breathing slows down your heart rate, which helps to calm anxiety and allows you to focus on the present moment and what is right in front of you.
Redirect your focus
Simplify your pre-shot routine and stick to it. Once you make a decision, commit to it and let go of any doubts or fears. Focus on the shot at hand and try to quieten any thoughts about potential outcomes or past mistakes.
Practice a pre-shot routine
Develop a consistent pre-shot routine to help you focus on the present moment and minimise fears about potential outcomes. This could include visualising your shot, taking a few practice swings, or simply taking a moment to centre yourself before taking your shot.
Let go and have fun
Golf is a game, and games are meant to be fun! Remind yourself to enjoy the process and not take it too seriously. This can help you relax and play with more freedom and creativity.
Start slowly
If you're getting back into golf after a break, start with some basic drills to help you regain your feel for the game. For example, try teeing up five balls in a row, starting at 40% of your maximum swing speed and gradually increasing to 100%. This can help you find a tempo that works for you and build confidence.
Remember, it's normal to feel some anxiety and self-doubt when returning to golf after a break. By practising relaxation techniques, simplifying your routine, and focusing on the present moment, you can quieten those negative thoughts and start enjoying your game again.
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Frequently asked questions
If you haven't golfed in a while, it's important to get to the course early and give yourself plenty of time to warm up. Focus on your short game, including putting, as this is the part of your game that will be most affected by your break.
Before you leave for the course, place a tennis shoe on the floor and use your putter to try and move it forward a few inches. This will help you to feel what a solid strike is like and promote a forward-leaning shaft and a flat left wrist at impact.
Practise your grip and your swing. When watching golf, have a club near you and practise your grip as you watch. When you get to the course, tee up five balls in a row, starting at 40% of your maximum and increasing your speed with each swing.
Try to relax and not overthink things. Learning to take a deep breath and swing the club without fear could transform your golf.
