Shaving Strokes with 3 Tips for Your Mental Game

It’s no secret that golf is a game where going lower is better. Every shot counts the same regardless of whether it’s a 300 yard drive or a 1 foot putt. With that in mind, it is important to consider where you’re losing shots. Though staying fit and honing your swing are important in improving your game, a little guidance for the mental game can very easily help you shave strokes off your score and improve the health of your game on the whole.

John Ondrush is an expert at keeping amateurs and pros in top physical condition, but he’s also got some invaluable insight when it comes to improving your mental approach and strategy. Here are a few of Ondrush’s tips for keeping your golf score as low as the Pros:

1. Visualize the Shot and Focus On Producing It: The key to great golf lies firmly in your focus. It’s important to prepare yourself for each shot before stepping in and firing away. You should always think about where and how you want to hit the golf ball as part of your pre-shot routine. We encourage you to take your time and even step away from the shot to regroup if you need to; it’s very easy to become distracted over a golf shot. It’s quite common for amateurs to take a whack at a ball without even considering the shot ahead or the swing they want to make. Even pros can have a tendency to hastily approach a shot without taking a long hard look at the obstacle in front of them and visualizing the shot they want to hit. First, imagine the shot, and then focus on making a good, fluid swing. After that, step in and execute.
2. Keep it in the Short Grass: Course positioning and strategy are key! You always want to select the club that’ll keep you in a favorable position and swinging from the fairway. Most times, it is better to take the high percentage shot and keep it in play than risk playing the ball from a more difficult position, like from in the trees or tall rough. Positioning alone can often save you 4-5 shots a round. This rule applies to Pros and amateurs alike: Though it may feel heroic to play the impossible shot, it could also be a very costly mistake that leads to a big number on your scorecard. Every stroke counts!
3. Know What You’re Capable Of: The enthusiasm of a golfer new to the game is a special thing, but it’s also a dangerous variable and can leave amateurs straining muscles left and right by either swinging too hard or trying to do too much in an awkward stance. A simple way to keep your golf score low is to avoid attempting shots that only Tiger Woods can hit. Basically, keep your ego in check to avoid wrecking your score and your swing. “Don’t try to hit a shot that’s a ridiculous distance away, or that you’ll swing out of your shoes trying to hit,” says Ondrush. “Likewise, sometimes it’s best to simply ‘take your medicine’ and punch the ball back into play when in an awkward lie.” As your skill level develops you will be better equipped to attempt such theatrical shots.