Sports and Recreation - Golf

Saturday, November 25, 2006

5 Tips To Improve Your Golf Game With Golf Swing Drills


When people first join a sport, the instructor will not just let the individual play the game. This is because the person has to be taught everything in theory first to be able to understand the basics before moving on.

One lesson that amateurs and professionals will always have to practice when playing golf is the drills. This serves as the basis for going through the motion until the follow through to ensure its smooth travel close to the hole as possible.

Teeing off is the most important part in golf. This is because a good swing will bring the ball closer to the intended target making it easy to putt then move on to the next hole.

Golfers who have a hard time hitting either hit a block or slice through it. In both cases, the ball will not travel that far.

A block to the right is caused by a swing path that is too shallow or flat while a slice could be an open club face at impact or an out to in swing path.

If the person has this problem, here are a few tips that can change that.

1. The player should first check on the grip. This is because this controls the club face. The person should make sure that the letter "V" is formed with the thumb and the forefinger on each hand pointing toward the trailing side shoulder.

It is advisable not to hold it tight because this keeps the face of the club open making it impossible to get a good shot.

2. Doing golf swing drills should not only be done in the range or the golf course. It is best to also practice this at home in front of the mirror.

The individual should stop the follow through halfway to the finish to see if this correct making sure the toe of the club points up in this position and that the trailing side is released over the lead hand. If done properly, this can be the slice and block from happening.

3. Some golfers are not in the right position when taking a shot. This can be avoided by being not too far or too close and checking if the alignment is in the shape of a square. It is best to practice this in front of a mirror so the distance can be noted when this is already being done in the green.

4. The golfer should also check on the divots. If this is too shallow, then the person is coming into the ball too much from the inside. This can be avoided by practicing with the ball on a side hill below the feet.

While some may not have a problem of being too shallow, the individual could be having a problem by doing this too deep. This can also be corrected by practicing some shots on side hills with the ball above the feet.

5. Some people also have a problem with the flat swing. It is best to do some drills with the back 6 inches away from a wall then make some swings.

The person will know this is done correctly if the body does not make any contact with the wall. This will enable the player to get the golf club higher and get the right of effort needed in making the back swing.

People say practice makes perfect. By working on these drills, people will surely see some improvement when the individual plays another game.

Improve Your Game Through Golf Instruction Videos


There are many methods of golf instruction, from one-on-one training with a professional to group lessons. Golf instruction videos have many advantages over face-to-face classes or other learning methods such as books or audiotapes. You can both see and hear the instructions as you perform the task. The instructor on the video becomes your personal teacher taking you step-by-step through each skill. You can set your own pace and repeat the video over and over as needed. You can watch certain sections at any time of the day or night. If you are embarrassed about the weaknesses of your golf game, you can work on improving them in the privacy of your own home.

With thousands available you should have no problem finding the golf instruction video best for you. As with any training tool, you need to choose one that addresses your specific needs.

While some video ads make outrageous claims about its ability to improve your game, take it with a grain of salt. Look at your golf instruction video as a guide, not a guarantee. A golf instruction video will not magically transform your game. Watch the video several times, however, to make sure you have extracted all the tips and advice offered. Several small pieces of advice can add up to a big difference and big improvement.

A golf instruction video visually presents methods to improve your golf. Compare the visual examples provided with what you do yourself. Get someone to videotape your swing, putt or whatever you are working on with the video so you can see where you differ from the advice in the video. Look at posture and stance, backswing and follow through, and look for differences. It?s not easy to see and correct your faults without taking a very close look.

Consider your fitness level. You can?t take advantage of everything a golf instruction video has to offer without having muscles fit for golf. Try doing golf-specific exercises so that you can be sure that your muscles are ready to be trained for improved golf.

Ask other golfers if they have used a golf instruction video that has been helpful. While your needs may differ, you might find a different video from the same company if you get a good recommendation.