Let me know if you have a favorite teaching professional you'd like to hear from. I'll do everything I can to get them on the show and let you know when they are on the air with me.
Remember, the mynegm LESSON TEE Internet/Radio Show is on Wednesday from NOON-1pm ET and is followed in 19 states and Canada and streams LIVE at mynegm.com and wnri.com
CHEERS!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Women’s Breasts Impact On Their Golf Swing
This is a reprint of an article I wrote for a woman's online magazine. Useful information for men too.
A high quality website for women (http://www.parexcellence.com/). Their golf section is but a fraction of the entire site. Enjoy the article.
My goal as a teaching professional has always been to help my clients better understand and improve their swing. To do this effectively, I have always felt it my responsibility to sometimes touch upon some delicate topics. In particular, a common discussion point I bring up with some of my female students relates to their chest, and how it might actually be getting in the way of their golf swing. While most of my peers agree the topic is germane, most simply will not talk about it with women students. Further, some female students simply are not comfortable discussing this issue unless with an LPGA or woman teaching professional.
I by no means encourage this discussion with every female student, as this topic does not always apply. If I think it would help the client, I will bring the subject to light. There is often a sense of relief that someone is actually willing to talk with them about this issue.
When it comes to beginners and average players, many women will often state they have problems getting comfortable over the ball. Terms used by students have included “jammed up” or “crowded” across the chest. The student generally doesn’t offer input until an honest discussion is engaged about why they seem to have continuing problems getting comfortable with the set up and the swing motion.
One of the biggest reasons the average woman golfer has problems with distance is tied directly to the issue of being tense and uncomfortable across the chest which then negatively impacts the swing motion. As any teaching professional will tell you, tension radiates and actually diminishes club head speed. Loss of momentum, resulting from this issue also leads to a loss of distance.
A characteristic of this dilemma can be observed when a woman consistently takes the golf club into the backswing on a path that is outside the target line. Much of the time she is literally swinging around her chest. Also, you will occasionally see a woman start the club away from the ball by first cocking their wrists then lifting the club the rest of the way into the backswing with the arms.· If you watch closely, you will see they tend to take the club away on an outside swing path.
The fix is to get the upper arms on top of the outside of your chest allowing for more freedom and comfort during the set up. Also, this position allows the arms to move freely into the back swing as well as though impact and follow through.
In the privacy of your bedroom or bathroom in front of a full length mirror, before getting fully dressed, take a 5, 6 or 7 iron and get into the set up position. Look at the situation in the mirror to see if, in fact, you are jammed up or crowded. Seeing this is half the battle of correcting the situation. You may notice your upper arms are situated on the side of your breasts, crunching everything between your shoulders which is what tends to make the set up uncomfortable for women golfers.
View the situation from three angles; head on, facing the mirror, off your left or lead side, (the side of the body that is closest to the target, the left side for right hand golfers, or the right side for left hand players), and off the trail side, (the side of the body furthest from the target.) You need to literally see the situation from all sides. Once you have done this, you can set about remedying the situation.
Next, back far enough away from the mirror to literally raise and extend your arms and the club in front of you and slightly above your chest. As you return the club to the set up position, watch what happens. You will see how the upper arms come down on top of the breasts.
As you finish lowering the club into the set up position, use your legs and knees to adjust for what you have just accomplished. This will keep your spine straight.
Note: Do not use your back to accommodate for the change in arm position. Should your upper back become curved or rounded, spend a little time getting the spine back into a straight position. This is accomplished by pulling your shoulder blades toward one another which can only be done by relaxing the shoulders as well as any tension in your hands and arms. If you are using your back to achieve this new arm position, you are simply trading one problem for another.
I suggest you practice this new set up, every other day, for a week or so to ingrain this new position. With repetition, the entire process should take no longer than 30 seconds per day. You will see this seemingly new arm position, in fact, is not as strange as it initially feels when you see the results in a mirror. Hence, your comfort level will improve. In the event you are having problems relaxing the shoulders or upper spine, check with your teaching professional. If you don’t have one, it would be worth 30 minutes of your time and money to have a teaching pro help you get the upper body to relax.
Another benefit of mirror work is you will become comfortable with a routine that allows you to clear your chest, getting your arms on top of the breasts. Another thing that will help is to watch better lady players as they go through their pre shot routines. Like Fred Couples adjusting his arms in those seemingly oversized golf shirts, better women players do similar things with their arms as they are getting set up. They are positioning the arms to allow for a comfortable set up and free swing motion.
In closing, note that I am not talking about swing theory, ONLY about getting comfortable and lessening that feeling of being all jammed up or crowded between your shoulders. You can still stay and feel connected but with much more comfort and freedom, not to mention now being on the road to generating more power in your golf swing, which will go a long way to your creating distance between clubs, not to mention better ball striking.
A high quality website for women (http://www.parexcellence.com/). Their golf section is but a fraction of the entire site. Enjoy the article.
**************************************************
For over thirty years, I have dedicated my life to helping golfers of all skill levels gain a better understanding of the golf swing in general and their swing in particular. To that end, the topic covered in this article, while sensitive, is one that I have discussed with countless ladies over the years. I have yet to have a single woman express being offended by the information I have covered with them.· I only hope you will read this piece with an open mind and consider its relevance to your golf swing and game.My goal as a teaching professional has always been to help my clients better understand and improve their swing. To do this effectively, I have always felt it my responsibility to sometimes touch upon some delicate topics. In particular, a common discussion point I bring up with some of my female students relates to their chest, and how it might actually be getting in the way of their golf swing. While most of my peers agree the topic is germane, most simply will not talk about it with women students. Further, some female students simply are not comfortable discussing this issue unless with an LPGA or woman teaching professional.
I by no means encourage this discussion with every female student, as this topic does not always apply. If I think it would help the client, I will bring the subject to light. There is often a sense of relief that someone is actually willing to talk with them about this issue.
When it comes to beginners and average players, many women will often state they have problems getting comfortable over the ball. Terms used by students have included “jammed up” or “crowded” across the chest. The student generally doesn’t offer input until an honest discussion is engaged about why they seem to have continuing problems getting comfortable with the set up and the swing motion.
One of the biggest reasons the average woman golfer has problems with distance is tied directly to the issue of being tense and uncomfortable across the chest which then negatively impacts the swing motion. As any teaching professional will tell you, tension radiates and actually diminishes club head speed. Loss of momentum, resulting from this issue also leads to a loss of distance.
A characteristic of this dilemma can be observed when a woman consistently takes the golf club into the backswing on a path that is outside the target line. Much of the time she is literally swinging around her chest. Also, you will occasionally see a woman start the club away from the ball by first cocking their wrists then lifting the club the rest of the way into the backswing with the arms.· If you watch closely, you will see they tend to take the club away on an outside swing path.
The fix is to get the upper arms on top of the outside of your chest allowing for more freedom and comfort during the set up. Also, this position allows the arms to move freely into the back swing as well as though impact and follow through.
In the privacy of your bedroom or bathroom in front of a full length mirror, before getting fully dressed, take a 5, 6 or 7 iron and get into the set up position. Look at the situation in the mirror to see if, in fact, you are jammed up or crowded. Seeing this is half the battle of correcting the situation. You may notice your upper arms are situated on the side of your breasts, crunching everything between your shoulders which is what tends to make the set up uncomfortable for women golfers.
View the situation from three angles; head on, facing the mirror, off your left or lead side, (the side of the body that is closest to the target, the left side for right hand golfers, or the right side for left hand players), and off the trail side, (the side of the body furthest from the target.) You need to literally see the situation from all sides. Once you have done this, you can set about remedying the situation.
Next, back far enough away from the mirror to literally raise and extend your arms and the club in front of you and slightly above your chest. As you return the club to the set up position, watch what happens. You will see how the upper arms come down on top of the breasts.
As you finish lowering the club into the set up position, use your legs and knees to adjust for what you have just accomplished. This will keep your spine straight.
Note: Do not use your back to accommodate for the change in arm position. Should your upper back become curved or rounded, spend a little time getting the spine back into a straight position. This is accomplished by pulling your shoulder blades toward one another which can only be done by relaxing the shoulders as well as any tension in your hands and arms. If you are using your back to achieve this new arm position, you are simply trading one problem for another.
I suggest you practice this new set up, every other day, for a week or so to ingrain this new position. With repetition, the entire process should take no longer than 30 seconds per day. You will see this seemingly new arm position, in fact, is not as strange as it initially feels when you see the results in a mirror. Hence, your comfort level will improve. In the event you are having problems relaxing the shoulders or upper spine, check with your teaching professional. If you don’t have one, it would be worth 30 minutes of your time and money to have a teaching pro help you get the upper body to relax.
Another benefit of mirror work is you will become comfortable with a routine that allows you to clear your chest, getting your arms on top of the breasts. Another thing that will help is to watch better lady players as they go through their pre shot routines. Like Fred Couples adjusting his arms in those seemingly oversized golf shirts, better women players do similar things with their arms as they are getting set up. They are positioning the arms to allow for a comfortable set up and free swing motion.
In closing, note that I am not talking about swing theory, ONLY about getting comfortable and lessening that feeling of being all jammed up or crowded between your shoulders. You can still stay and feel connected but with much more comfort and freedom, not to mention now being on the road to generating more power in your golf swing, which will go a long way to your creating distance between clubs, not to mention better ball striking.
Monday, November 8, 2010
GOLF DVDs: Three steps to maximize learning from a disc
Millions of golf instructional DVDs are sold every year, especially during the Holiday Season. Millions of golfers purchase DVDs looking for that Holy Grail of the golf swing in their search of improvement and perfection.
I urge caution when it comes to attempting to learn the golf swing from a golf DVD. However, if this is your preferred method of instruction, I would like to suggest you consider something, and that is…when it comes to learning about motion, it is very difficult to learn on visual, static and auditory levels at the same time. This is exactly what golf DVDs do, which ultimately serves to confuse and minimize their message.
Mixed, varied and often times inconsistent messages sum up why golf DVDs, while a good way to provide an overview of a particular swing method or theory, fall short on delivery of a quality message and often content when it comes to any type of effective instruction. While there is no substitute for hands on professional golf instruction, still, people seem to flock to DVDs for advice and wisdom when it comes to the golf swing. These ‘lessons on a disc’, generally wind up in a pile with similar DVDs collecting dust in a corner of your office or under the entertainment center in your den.
In order to be completely effective, these products would have to be customized for each golfer because no two people see or hear the same message the same way, not to mention the difficulty of learning about motion on visual, auditory and static levels at the same time.
That said you can increase what you take away from golf DVDs as sources of information if you follow a few very simple, and seemingly bizarre, steps. These steps can make using DVDs much more productive for you than they probably have been up to now.
When you consider the process of learning about motion and the importance of visualization, the steps become obvious. While I will not guarantee results, I will promise you that your understanding of the information contained on a golf DVD will be greatly improved.
Here we go.
1.) When you receive your DVDs, sit and watch them from beginning to end. Put one after another in your DVD player, watch and listen to the message being conveyed as if you were watching a movie. Do not sit in your chair and try to figure out what is going on. Just watch and listen.
2.) Watch each DVD in the set WITHOUT SOUND. See if you can figure out what they are presenting for your consideration. In fact, from here on, when you refer back to the DVD, try NOT to turn the sound up. Why? Because, it is very difficult to learn via the auditory and visual systems at the same time when it comes to motion. Your unconscious mind is fed information visually and the conscious mind simply gets in the way of learning when it comes to motion.
3.) Turn the picture off and LISTEN to the presentation. This tests your ability to visualize what is going on during the presentation. Also, you might be surprised to find that what is going on visually and in print vs. what is being said does not necessarily match up. I call this a dichotomy of message. It often happens, and this is the only way you are going to figure it out.
I challenge you to try this with one of your old tapes or DVDs. Try it with one you have watched before. You might be surprised at how skewed the message actually is when applying the method of learning I have outlined. It could explain why you have had trouble deciphering the information in the past.
And for those of you thinking of getting the latest and greatest golf DVD for that special golfer on your gift list this holiday season. You might want to put a copy of this article with that gift. Someone will thank you, I am sure.
Cheers!
I urge caution when it comes to attempting to learn the golf swing from a golf DVD. However, if this is your preferred method of instruction, I would like to suggest you consider something, and that is…when it comes to learning about motion, it is very difficult to learn on visual, static and auditory levels at the same time. This is exactly what golf DVDs do, which ultimately serves to confuse and minimize their message.
Mixed, varied and often times inconsistent messages sum up why golf DVDs, while a good way to provide an overview of a particular swing method or theory, fall short on delivery of a quality message and often content when it comes to any type of effective instruction. While there is no substitute for hands on professional golf instruction, still, people seem to flock to DVDs for advice and wisdom when it comes to the golf swing. These ‘lessons on a disc’, generally wind up in a pile with similar DVDs collecting dust in a corner of your office or under the entertainment center in your den.
In order to be completely effective, these products would have to be customized for each golfer because no two people see or hear the same message the same way, not to mention the difficulty of learning about motion on visual, auditory and static levels at the same time.
That said you can increase what you take away from golf DVDs as sources of information if you follow a few very simple, and seemingly bizarre, steps. These steps can make using DVDs much more productive for you than they probably have been up to now.
When you consider the process of learning about motion and the importance of visualization, the steps become obvious. While I will not guarantee results, I will promise you that your understanding of the information contained on a golf DVD will be greatly improved.
Here we go.
1.) When you receive your DVDs, sit and watch them from beginning to end. Put one after another in your DVD player, watch and listen to the message being conveyed as if you were watching a movie. Do not sit in your chair and try to figure out what is going on. Just watch and listen.
2.) Watch each DVD in the set WITHOUT SOUND. See if you can figure out what they are presenting for your consideration. In fact, from here on, when you refer back to the DVD, try NOT to turn the sound up. Why? Because, it is very difficult to learn via the auditory and visual systems at the same time when it comes to motion. Your unconscious mind is fed information visually and the conscious mind simply gets in the way of learning when it comes to motion.
3.) Turn the picture off and LISTEN to the presentation. This tests your ability to visualize what is going on during the presentation. Also, you might be surprised to find that what is going on visually and in print vs. what is being said does not necessarily match up. I call this a dichotomy of message. It often happens, and this is the only way you are going to figure it out.
I challenge you to try this with one of your old tapes or DVDs. Try it with one you have watched before. You might be surprised at how skewed the message actually is when applying the method of learning I have outlined. It could explain why you have had trouble deciphering the information in the past.
And for those of you thinking of getting the latest and greatest golf DVD for that special golfer on your gift list this holiday season. You might want to put a copy of this article with that gift. Someone will thank you, I am sure.
Cheers!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Follow my weekly articles all winter about off season practice and everything relevant to the learning process
I am starting a new service for readers of golf website mynegm.com.
Starting Wednesday 11/3 I will be posting articles weekly in the mynegm LESSON TEE area of the website under the INSTRUCTION section at the top of the page.
I will be writing about GOLF TRAINING AIDS, DVD LEARNING, EFFECTIVE INDOOR PRACTICE and much, much more.
Membership has its advantages.
While anyone can read and follow this weekly feature, FREE membership of mynegm.com gives you access directly to me. You can ask swing questions and winter practice questions. Members can contact me through my profile page as you progress this winter to improve your golf swing making the 2011 golf season your best ever!
The announcements have gone out and the first article will be up on Wednesday 11/3.
Cheers.
Starting Wednesday 11/3 I will be posting articles weekly in the mynegm LESSON TEE area of the website under the INSTRUCTION section at the top of the page.
I will be writing about GOLF TRAINING AIDS, DVD LEARNING, EFFECTIVE INDOOR PRACTICE and much, much more.
Membership has its advantages.
While anyone can read and follow this weekly feature, FREE membership of mynegm.com gives you access directly to me. You can ask swing questions and winter practice questions. Members can contact me through my profile page as you progress this winter to improve your golf swing making the 2011 golf season your best ever!
The announcements have gone out and the first article will be up on Wednesday 11/3.
Cheers.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
TLTGOLF: Golf Tip: Let's get specific about off season prac...
TLTGOLF: Golf Tip: Let's get specific about off season prac...: "Indoor golf practice facilities have become popular around the country and are gearing up for the winter practice season. This does not incl..."
Golf Tip: Let's get specific about off season practice
Indoor golf practice facilities have become popular around the country and are gearing up for the winter practice season. This does not include outdoor driving ranges retrofitted with gas heaters for winter practice and those facilities that offer what I call ‘gaming’ situations, or Golf Simulators.
Winter practice will lead to a better golf game and a better golf game leads to more enjoyment on the golf course.
It is important to understand that habits, good and bad, are part of your perception when it comes to swinging the golf club, much like the fear of hitting over water or a sand trap. That said, when you put your clubs away for the season, know that any and all bad habits are put away as well, and will remain waiting until the next time you play golf even if it is several months before you play.
Below are a few simple suggestions golfers might consider if they want to improve their golf swing and hence have more fun playing golf.
First, go ahead and take time from your golf swing/game. Enjoy the fall, the holidays and all that brings
• While watching football, take a pad and jot down those things you know about your swing that need to be addressed. Doing this will help you isolate and focus on swing problems once you start your winter practice.
• Take a little time when you are out running errands and find an indoor practice facility near your office or home and pay them a visit. It’s not a bad idea to add a range gift certificate to your Christmas ‘wish’ list. Note: you may not like the facility that is closest to you, so check around to be sure you get the best fit for you and your swing needs. It is important you are comfortable with the environment.
See what they have to offer in the way of range ball membership programs. Most facilities deeply discount the price of range balls when you sign up for a range membership program.
• Check out the teaching staff. Find out their rates for private lessons, their teaching philosophies and the like.
• Ask questions: I offer this for your consideration. You need a sense of what the teaching pro espouses, their communication skills and whether or not YOU feel they can help you. Note: It is not necessary to take lessons at the same place where you practice, so don’t fall into that trap While it may be convenient, it may actually be self defeating.
• Avoid signing up for any ‘winter instruction program’ until you are sure the person you are signing up with is a good fit for what you are looking for.
• Make a date to start working at the facility you chose after the holiday season is over. Sometime in mid January would be perfect.
• Schedule going to the range twice a week. This would include any trip you might make to take a lesson. Your personal hitting sessions should take no more than 45 minutes or involve more than say a medium or large basket of balls.
• Should you sign up for and start taking lessons, space them out to give you time to practice between sessions. I would suggest a lesson every two weeks. This gives you plenty of time to work on those swing issues you and the professional have discussed.
Finally, check in with your teaching pro to let him know how you are doing and if you are having any difficulty with what you are working on. They might say something, in passing, that causes it all to make sense to you.
You may not realize it, but having a teaching pro help you monitor your progress is a valuable tool to improving your golf swing.
Do your research, make a plan and stick to it. In the spring, when you hit the links, your efforts will be rewarded.
Have a great winter practice season!
Winter practice will lead to a better golf game and a better golf game leads to more enjoyment on the golf course.
It is important to understand that habits, good and bad, are part of your perception when it comes to swinging the golf club, much like the fear of hitting over water or a sand trap. That said, when you put your clubs away for the season, know that any and all bad habits are put away as well, and will remain waiting until the next time you play golf even if it is several months before you play.
Below are a few simple suggestions golfers might consider if they want to improve their golf swing and hence have more fun playing golf.
First, go ahead and take time from your golf swing/game. Enjoy the fall, the holidays and all that brings
• While watching football, take a pad and jot down those things you know about your swing that need to be addressed. Doing this will help you isolate and focus on swing problems once you start your winter practice.
• Take a little time when you are out running errands and find an indoor practice facility near your office or home and pay them a visit. It’s not a bad idea to add a range gift certificate to your Christmas ‘wish’ list. Note: you may not like the facility that is closest to you, so check around to be sure you get the best fit for you and your swing needs. It is important you are comfortable with the environment.
See what they have to offer in the way of range ball membership programs. Most facilities deeply discount the price of range balls when you sign up for a range membership program.
• Check out the teaching staff. Find out their rates for private lessons, their teaching philosophies and the like.
• Ask questions: I offer this for your consideration. You need a sense of what the teaching pro espouses, their communication skills and whether or not YOU feel they can help you. Note: It is not necessary to take lessons at the same place where you practice, so don’t fall into that trap While it may be convenient, it may actually be self defeating.
• Avoid signing up for any ‘winter instruction program’ until you are sure the person you are signing up with is a good fit for what you are looking for.
• Make a date to start working at the facility you chose after the holiday season is over. Sometime in mid January would be perfect.
• Schedule going to the range twice a week. This would include any trip you might make to take a lesson. Your personal hitting sessions should take no more than 45 minutes or involve more than say a medium or large basket of balls.
• Should you sign up for and start taking lessons, space them out to give you time to practice between sessions. I would suggest a lesson every two weeks. This gives you plenty of time to work on those swing issues you and the professional have discussed.
Finally, check in with your teaching pro to let him know how you are doing and if you are having any difficulty with what you are working on. They might say something, in passing, that causes it all to make sense to you.
You may not realize it, but having a teaching pro help you monitor your progress is a valuable tool to improving your golf swing.
Do your research, make a plan and stick to it. In the spring, when you hit the links, your efforts will be rewarded.
Have a great winter practice season!
Monday, October 11, 2010
Have more fun playing golf next year. Work on your swing this winter.
I know I keep harping about this, but being dedicated to helping golfers help themselves, I simply cannot stay away from the topic; Improve your swing in the winter months so you can improve your game next year.
Indoor golf practice facilities have finally come of age and are gearing up for the winter practice season. This does not include heated/covered outdoor ranges and those facilities that offer what I call ‘gaming’ situations, or Golf Simulators.
Winter practice will lead to a better golf game and a better golf game leads to more enjoyment on the golf course.
When you put your clubs away for the season, know that any and all bad habits are put away as well, and will remain waiting for you until the next round, even if it is several months before you play.
Below are a few simple suggestions you might consider if you really want to improve that golf swing and hence have more fun playing golf.
First, go ahead and take time from your golf swing/game. Enjoy the fall, the holidays and all that brings
• While watching football, take a pad and jot down those things you know about your swing that need to be addressed. Doing this will help you isolate and focus on swing problems once you start your winter practice.
• Take a little time when you are out running errands and find an indoor practice facility near your office or home and pay them a visit. It’s not a bad idea to add a range gift certificate to your Christmas ‘wish’ list. Note: you may not like the facility that is closest to you, so check around to be sure you get the best fit for you and your swing needs. It is important you are comfortable with the environment.
See what they have to offer in the way of range ball membership programs. Most facilities deeply discount the price of range balls when you sign up for a range membership program.
• Check out the teaching staff. Find out their rates for private lessons, their teaching philosophies and the like.
• Ask questions: I offer this for your consideration. You need a sense of what the teaching pro espouses, their communication skills and whether or not YOU feel they can help you. Note: It is not necessary to take lessons at the same place where you practice, so don’t fall into that trap While it may be convenient, it may actually be self defeating.
• Avoid signing up for any ‘winter instruction program’ until you are sure the person you are signing up with is a good fit for what you are looking for.
• Make a date to start working at the facility you chose after the holiday season is over. Sometime in mid January would be perfect.
• Try to schedule going to the range twice a week. This would include any trip you might make to take a lesson. Your personal hitting sessions should take no more than 45 minutes or involve more than say a medium or large basket of balls.
• Should you sign up for and start taking lessons, space them out to give you time to practice between sessions. I would suggest a lesson every two weeks. This gives you plenty of time to work on those swing issues you and the professional have discussed.
Finally, check in with your teaching pro to let him know how you are doing and if you are having any difficulty with what you are working on. They might say something, in passing, that causes it all to make sense to you.
You may not realize it, but having a teaching pro help you monitor your progress is a valuable tool to improving your golf swing.
Do your research, make a plan and stick to it. In the spring, when you hit the links, your efforts will be rewarded.
Cheers!
Indoor golf practice facilities have finally come of age and are gearing up for the winter practice season. This does not include heated/covered outdoor ranges and those facilities that offer what I call ‘gaming’ situations, or Golf Simulators.
Winter practice will lead to a better golf game and a better golf game leads to more enjoyment on the golf course.
When you put your clubs away for the season, know that any and all bad habits are put away as well, and will remain waiting for you until the next round, even if it is several months before you play.
Below are a few simple suggestions you might consider if you really want to improve that golf swing and hence have more fun playing golf.
First, go ahead and take time from your golf swing/game. Enjoy the fall, the holidays and all that brings
• While watching football, take a pad and jot down those things you know about your swing that need to be addressed. Doing this will help you isolate and focus on swing problems once you start your winter practice.
• Take a little time when you are out running errands and find an indoor practice facility near your office or home and pay them a visit. It’s not a bad idea to add a range gift certificate to your Christmas ‘wish’ list. Note: you may not like the facility that is closest to you, so check around to be sure you get the best fit for you and your swing needs. It is important you are comfortable with the environment.
See what they have to offer in the way of range ball membership programs. Most facilities deeply discount the price of range balls when you sign up for a range membership program.
• Check out the teaching staff. Find out their rates for private lessons, their teaching philosophies and the like.
• Ask questions: I offer this for your consideration. You need a sense of what the teaching pro espouses, their communication skills and whether or not YOU feel they can help you. Note: It is not necessary to take lessons at the same place where you practice, so don’t fall into that trap While it may be convenient, it may actually be self defeating.
• Avoid signing up for any ‘winter instruction program’ until you are sure the person you are signing up with is a good fit for what you are looking for.
• Make a date to start working at the facility you chose after the holiday season is over. Sometime in mid January would be perfect.
• Try to schedule going to the range twice a week. This would include any trip you might make to take a lesson. Your personal hitting sessions should take no more than 45 minutes or involve more than say a medium or large basket of balls.
• Should you sign up for and start taking lessons, space them out to give you time to practice between sessions. I would suggest a lesson every two weeks. This gives you plenty of time to work on those swing issues you and the professional have discussed.
Finally, check in with your teaching pro to let him know how you are doing and if you are having any difficulty with what you are working on. They might say something, in passing, that causes it all to make sense to you.
You may not realize it, but having a teaching pro help you monitor your progress is a valuable tool to improving your golf swing.
Do your research, make a plan and stick to it. In the spring, when you hit the links, your efforts will be rewarded.
Cheers!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
ENOUGH RYDER CUP.....NOW, MOVING ON...TO THE SWING
O.K. ranting is done for the Ryder Cup, at least until 2012.
It's time to move on to the golf swing.
Actually, I am putting my latest article to bed for New England Golf Monthly's Holiday issue and will be posting part of it on the TLTGOLF blog later in this weekend.
In the meantime I am soliciting you, the readers, to suggest golf swing topics you would like covered in the weeks and months ahead as many of you set in earnest to improve your swing over the winter months with an eye on improving your game in 2011.
Be sure to give ME a little background including: Your age, years playing, how often you play/practice, any lessons, past and present sports, (and I mean WAY back to high school), injuries or surgeries, occupation, education, right or left handed and handicap.
Also, if you would like me to reply to you 'privately' please let me know that too and I will do so.
Cheers and let me hear from you.
Thanks for following the TLTGOLF blog.
It's time to move on to the golf swing.
Actually, I am putting my latest article to bed for New England Golf Monthly's Holiday issue and will be posting part of it on the TLTGOLF blog later in this weekend.
In the meantime I am soliciting you, the readers, to suggest golf swing topics you would like covered in the weeks and months ahead as many of you set in earnest to improve your swing over the winter months with an eye on improving your game in 2011.
Be sure to give ME a little background including: Your age, years playing, how often you play/practice, any lessons, past and present sports, (and I mean WAY back to high school), injuries or surgeries, occupation, education, right or left handed and handicap.
Also, if you would like me to reply to you 'privately' please let me know that too and I will do so.
Cheers and let me hear from you.
Thanks for following the TLTGOLF blog.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
TODAY'S SHOW
I spent most of the hour talking about the impact of poor putting on the Ryder Cup today on my Internet/radio show.
My main point is, once you are 'in the saddle', ready to make your stoke, you don't second guess or even change up the normal pace of your putting routine. I saw this almost all weekend from a majority of American players. Who by the way, are regarded by most as the best putters on the planet!.
The timidness, apparent insecurity brought on by all the second guessing seemed prevalent on the U.S. team
Now, I can only imagine the amount of pressure one is under during a Ryder Cup event. However, when under this type of pressure, one needs to stick with what works...and if it doesn't work.....you don't try to fix it during an event....and you most certainly don't change your routine thinking somehow that is going to make a difference.
I feel for the American Team. I know they went to Celtic Manor hoping to keep the Cup. I do not doubt that they gave it their best shot.
That said, I am haunted by what Jim Furyk's father said to him before the final round of Players Championship a couple short weeks ago: "Go play golf."
This simply means to relax and focus on playing the game. The rest will take care of itself.
Well, we did that. Only thing is we waited 'til Monday's singles matches to 'let go and play golf'.
And finally, almost in spite of themselves, team America STILL almost pulled out a victory! ...In spite of all the over thinking going on.....
I am still in favor of a 'Flat Stick Seminar' and a couple Ryder Cup Match Play summer camps for the players from the U.S.....Who knows, with a little more trust in our ability, we just might bring one home from the 'old sod' in a few years!!!
My main point is, once you are 'in the saddle', ready to make your stoke, you don't second guess or even change up the normal pace of your putting routine. I saw this almost all weekend from a majority of American players. Who by the way, are regarded by most as the best putters on the planet!.
The timidness, apparent insecurity brought on by all the second guessing seemed prevalent on the U.S. team
Now, I can only imagine the amount of pressure one is under during a Ryder Cup event. However, when under this type of pressure, one needs to stick with what works...and if it doesn't work.....you don't try to fix it during an event....and you most certainly don't change your routine thinking somehow that is going to make a difference.
I feel for the American Team. I know they went to Celtic Manor hoping to keep the Cup. I do not doubt that they gave it their best shot.
That said, I am haunted by what Jim Furyk's father said to him before the final round of Players Championship a couple short weeks ago: "Go play golf."
This simply means to relax and focus on playing the game. The rest will take care of itself.
Well, we did that. Only thing is we waited 'til Monday's singles matches to 'let go and play golf'.
And finally, almost in spite of themselves, team America STILL almost pulled out a victory! ...In spite of all the over thinking going on.....
I am still in favor of a 'Flat Stick Seminar' and a couple Ryder Cup Match Play summer camps for the players from the U.S.....Who knows, with a little more trust in our ability, we just might bring one home from the 'old sod' in a few years!!!
Monday, October 4, 2010
RYDER CUP WRAP!
I'm not sure but I think it has been a 17 year drought for the Americans winning the Ryder Cup on European soil......
I am more convinced than ever THIS Ryder Cup could have been ours IF and only if the putting would have been 'marginally' better for team U.S.
I mean when you look at it, the Titans for the Americans must have been holding something back the way the played the singles matches today. Woods, Stricker and Michelson played the game 'for real' today. It was like looking a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde compared to their performances the previous two days!
I will eat only 'half my words' about TW and his play being not up to par, pardon the pun, for Ryder Cup play. He showed me absolutely nothing the first two days...NODDA.....Except, of course, his team spirit....rooting for the others on the U.S. team....but heck, the way he played....and putted....it is really all he had.....and to his credit, it is a good thing...
His play today looked like Earl, (his dad), must have invaded his room at Celtic Manor last night and told him to 'get over it'...and play....because THAT is exactly what he did....PLAY. And today, at least, Tiger Woods proved himself worthy of Ryder Cup team membership, and for that I am greatful!
Phil and Steve? Again, were we to eliminate the previous two days of poor putting from these two and TW....Team U.S. would have buried Europe!!! But that is why the term 'golf' can be a four letter word from time to time.....
We gave em heck today and, again, had the flat stick not let Hunter Mahan down, as it has ALL WEEK, we just might have pulled another one out of the can and broken our losing streak in Europe.
Now, let's see if we all can stay out of trouble and the news for the next two years, keep everyone in our player's families healthy, and perhaps have a PGA Match Play Training Camp before the next Ryder Cup PLUS a Flat Stick Seminar or two.... and we may just find a way to end this drought and win on the 'old sod' in 2014..
Now, go practice your putting!
Cheers!
I am more convinced than ever THIS Ryder Cup could have been ours IF and only if the putting would have been 'marginally' better for team U.S.
I mean when you look at it, the Titans for the Americans must have been holding something back the way the played the singles matches today. Woods, Stricker and Michelson played the game 'for real' today. It was like looking a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde compared to their performances the previous two days!
I will eat only 'half my words' about TW and his play being not up to par, pardon the pun, for Ryder Cup play. He showed me absolutely nothing the first two days...NODDA.....Except, of course, his team spirit....rooting for the others on the U.S. team....but heck, the way he played....and putted....it is really all he had.....and to his credit, it is a good thing...
His play today looked like Earl, (his dad), must have invaded his room at Celtic Manor last night and told him to 'get over it'...and play....because THAT is exactly what he did....PLAY. And today, at least, Tiger Woods proved himself worthy of Ryder Cup team membership, and for that I am greatful!
Phil and Steve? Again, were we to eliminate the previous two days of poor putting from these two and TW....Team U.S. would have buried Europe!!! But that is why the term 'golf' can be a four letter word from time to time.....
We gave em heck today and, again, had the flat stick not let Hunter Mahan down, as it has ALL WEEK, we just might have pulled another one out of the can and broken our losing streak in Europe.
Now, let's see if we all can stay out of trouble and the news for the next two years, keep everyone in our player's families healthy, and perhaps have a PGA Match Play Training Camp before the next Ryder Cup PLUS a Flat Stick Seminar or two.... and we may just find a way to end this drought and win on the 'old sod' in 2014..
Cheers!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
You CAN over prepare...when it comes to putting
So you don't think individual pace and overall tempo of an player is important?
Well, just recall the putting clinic put on at the Ryder Cup Saturday and Sunday by Team U.S.A.
It got to a point, for me, that I was timing the players for both teams and I found that TW, Phil and Stricker were taking 30% more time over putts than normal, (this is some of the stuff we teachers do-what can I tell ya?). Anyway, Graham, Westwood, Kymer and MacIlroy, on the other hand, appeared to be 'normal' in their overall approach to their putting.
Sure the Ryder Cup is important....but come on, to a degree, you have to play your own game and that includes your own pace on the green.....
The Rush Limbaugh of the golf world, Johnny Miller,commented on both Saturday and Sunday that he felt the Americans were taking too much time with their putts....
For me, it was like watching grass grow waiting for them to stroke their putts, (Cinck's head games at one point notwithstanding). It really seemed out of the ordinary for most all of them. Most golfers know that when you are in a routine, your pace and timing and tempo will be virtually the same....all the way round the lot. And I have to say that we were 'off time' when it came to our pace out on the putting surface and it cost us. It's not too late, but the guys have gotta get back into their routine's!
O.K. the first couple days were right up the alley for the European Team. Now let's hope the individual matches can get Team U.S.'s blood flowing again......GO U.S.A. We can do it...!
Well, just recall the putting clinic put on at the Ryder Cup Saturday and Sunday by Team U.S.A.
It got to a point, for me, that I was timing the players for both teams and I found that TW, Phil and Stricker were taking 30% more time over putts than normal, (this is some of the stuff we teachers do-what can I tell ya?). Anyway, Graham, Westwood, Kymer and MacIlroy, on the other hand, appeared to be 'normal' in their overall approach to their putting.
Sure the Ryder Cup is important....but come on, to a degree, you have to play your own game and that includes your own pace on the green.....
The Rush Limbaugh of the golf world, Johnny Miller,commented on both Saturday and Sunday that he felt the Americans were taking too much time with their putts....
For me, it was like watching grass grow waiting for them to stroke their putts, (Cinck's head games at one point notwithstanding). It really seemed out of the ordinary for most all of them. Most golfers know that when you are in a routine, your pace and timing and tempo will be virtually the same....all the way round the lot. And I have to say that we were 'off time' when it came to our pace out on the putting surface and it cost us. It's not too late, but the guys have gotta get back into their routine's!
O.K. the first couple days were right up the alley for the European Team. Now let's hope the individual matches can get Team U.S.'s blood flowing again......GO U.S.A. We can do it...!
Saturday, October 2, 2010
RYDER CUP....NERVES? AN OBSERVATION
Well, almost the first day of the Ryder Cup is in the can....
Who'd of 'thunk' it....rain in Wales! Who knows. It may SNOW today!
The one thing that struck me watching a little of the Cup on Friday was something I don't recall seeing. Maybe it is my 'old age' reflective nature.
I noticed that most, and I mean almost ALL the players looked nervous.
While there is nothing I can put my finger on, it looked to me like they, (players), were all a bit nervous.
It's kind of nice to see players at this level suffering from a case of the nerves.
Don't misunderstand. For years, I've told my clients if they were not suffering a case of the butterflies when they step on to the first tee in an event, something is wrong with them, or they have an ego that is too big to play the game.
No, I'm talking about a general sense of timidness that seemed present in their golf swings.
It's one thing to 'get lost' in the field of a 144 man field in an event and quite another to be one of, say, 16 golfers under the microscope of the entire world.
I actually expect this case of the nerves to wane as Saturday's rounds get underway. That said, and again, it is refreshing to see players at this level 'walking on eggshells'. More later.
Enjoy the Ryder Cup!
Who'd of 'thunk' it....rain in Wales! Who knows. It may SNOW today!
The one thing that struck me watching a little of the Cup on Friday was something I don't recall seeing. Maybe it is my 'old age' reflective nature.
I noticed that most, and I mean almost ALL the players looked nervous.
While there is nothing I can put my finger on, it looked to me like they, (players), were all a bit nervous.
It's kind of nice to see players at this level suffering from a case of the nerves.
Don't misunderstand. For years, I've told my clients if they were not suffering a case of the butterflies when they step on to the first tee in an event, something is wrong with them, or they have an ego that is too big to play the game.
No, I'm talking about a general sense of timidness that seemed present in their golf swings.
It's one thing to 'get lost' in the field of a 144 man field in an event and quite another to be one of, say, 16 golfers under the microscope of the entire world.
I actually expect this case of the nerves to wane as Saturday's rounds get underway. That said, and again, it is refreshing to see players at this level 'walking on eggshells'. More later.
Enjoy the Ryder Cup!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
ARE YOU SERIOUS?...ABOUT IMPROVING YOUR BALL STRIKING?
If the answer to the 'title' question is YES....then now is the time......unless you are still playing during the absolute best time of year in the northern tier of states....
FIRST: The season us officially 'over'...NOT....after Labor Day. The biggest secret for those who don't play during the summer citing slow play as the biggest reason, the Fall of the year is the best time of year to play. The leaves are changing making the vistas beautiful and, figuratively speaking, 'no one is home'....meaning the golf courses, other than golf outings, are vacant. You can zip around a course, generally, in 4 hours or less!
Yep while most golfers have hung up their clubs to watch football, the World Series and other sedentary things, those who love the game are still playing the game and enjoying 'fast' play! O.K. enough! Now about swing improvement.
If you are really serious about turning over a new leaf when it comes to breaking those old swing habits and finally getting your golf swing to the point where you can actually trust and rely on it to deliver the scores you've always known you were capable of.....the Fall and Winter is the time to work on swing improvement.
The proliferation of indoor practice facilities and the increase of teaching professionals teaching at those venues, there is no longer any reason to put your golf swing on the shelf for the winter only to collect dust.
Simply by hitting a basket of range balls, say 2 or 3 times a week and finding a professional who can help you the way you process can and will almost certainly transform your game making your 2011 golf season one of your best.
I did not set out to hit 140,000 balls over a year and a half. As I've said, when I think about it, I get REALLY tired! Nope, I simply set out to hit a basket or two of balls a day, six days a week.....That's me! I am in the profession. You don't need to hit anything near that number to improve your ball striking and hence your game....
The only caveat; you really should find a teaching professional you can trust and work with who can make suggestions that will help you gain a better understanding of and trust in your golf swing.
I honestly believe if you check around you are going to find at least one indoor practice facility within, say, 30-45 minuets of your home or office.....maybe closer!
Look into it, do your research and in my next post I'll be a bit more specific with tips to consider in seeking out a good teaching pro.....for you...
Cheers!
FIRST: The season us officially 'over'...NOT....after Labor Day. The biggest secret for those who don't play during the summer citing slow play as the biggest reason, the Fall of the year is the best time of year to play. The leaves are changing making the vistas beautiful and, figuratively speaking, 'no one is home'....meaning the golf courses, other than golf outings, are vacant. You can zip around a course, generally, in 4 hours or less!
Yep while most golfers have hung up their clubs to watch football, the World Series and other sedentary things, those who love the game are still playing the game and enjoying 'fast' play! O.K. enough! Now about swing improvement.
If you are really serious about turning over a new leaf when it comes to breaking those old swing habits and finally getting your golf swing to the point where you can actually trust and rely on it to deliver the scores you've always known you were capable of.....the Fall and Winter is the time to work on swing improvement.
The proliferation of indoor practice facilities and the increase of teaching professionals teaching at those venues, there is no longer any reason to put your golf swing on the shelf for the winter only to collect dust.
Simply by hitting a basket of range balls, say 2 or 3 times a week and finding a professional who can help you the way you process can and will almost certainly transform your game making your 2011 golf season one of your best.
I did not set out to hit 140,000 balls over a year and a half. As I've said, when I think about it, I get REALLY tired! Nope, I simply set out to hit a basket or two of balls a day, six days a week.....That's me! I am in the profession. You don't need to hit anything near that number to improve your ball striking and hence your game....
The only caveat; you really should find a teaching professional you can trust and work with who can make suggestions that will help you gain a better understanding of and trust in your golf swing.
I honestly believe if you check around you are going to find at least one indoor practice facility within, say, 30-45 minuets of your home or office.....maybe closer!
Look into it, do your research and in my next post I'll be a bit more specific with tips to consider in seeking out a good teaching pro.....for you...
Cheers!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Another show 'in the can'
Internet/Radio Show is now 'in the can'. A long show for me as the doctors have, once again, changed my medication....telling me ONLY upon inquiry that there is an adjustment period...MAN....this has been a tough day.
Anyway, a lot of interesting Ryder Cup trivia of interest plus I was able to chat about the decisions facing young ladies considering turning professional and joining the LPGA or getting that college degree BEFORE making the leap.....
This post is brief for reasons as outlined in para #1...
However the topic broached this day really gets me going and I plan a more detailed post once this darn adjustment period re my med regimen is FINALLY over!!! Cheers!
Anyway, a lot of interesting Ryder Cup trivia of interest plus I was able to chat about the decisions facing young ladies considering turning professional and joining the LPGA or getting that college degree BEFORE making the leap.....
This post is brief for reasons as outlined in para #1...
However the topic broached this day really gets me going and I plan a more detailed post once this darn adjustment period re my med regimen is FINALLY over!!! Cheers!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
JOIN THE REST OF THE GOLF WORLD ON MY SHOW
If you want to know what an old broken down, 30year veteran, teaching professional sounds like and get some 'hard to swallow' realistic swing wisdom, listen to the show every Wednesday via the internet at either:
mynegm.com or wnri.com from 12:05-1pm ET. Yep join me on the mynegm LESSON TEE!
mynegm.com or wnri.com from 12:05-1pm ET. Yep join me on the mynegm LESSON TEE!
Monday, September 27, 2010
WHO IS THIS GUY STEVE RIGGS GOLF PRO?
Having been remiss in getting this blog going due to health issues and time constraints, I felt THIS might be a good way to 'get the ball rolling'......by giving readers a thumbnail of just 'who this guy is'.....Here we go!
I have been teaching for over 30 years around the U.S. and Caribbean, consulted on training aids, infomercials and teaching facilities as well as designing golf training aids over the years and co hosting a USGA national golf event. To say my background is varied and colorful would be a very mild understatement.
Originally form central Ohio, I was considered a natural swinger of the golf club from the age of 8 years. Unfortunatly, I had 'other' issues which prevented me from developing into a good competitor. In retrospect, however, my 'issues' turned out to be a blessing in later years as I came to realize my true 'lot in life', namely, teaching and communication of the golf swing to clients of literally all skill levels.
My training? Well, I think the call it the 'school of hard knocks'. There is no better teacher than experience and reality. I have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to pick the brains of some of the most renown teaching pros, tour players and club manufacturers over the years. This, along with my own rebuilding efforts after being forced out of the golf profession after a fall during a golf tournament left me partially paralyzed. It was simply one of those freak things that happens.
My rebuilding efforts over 18 months which included hitting over 140,000 balls, (I did NOT set out to do that----just thinking about it makes me tired!!!). Yes, I did rebuild my swing but what happened along the way proved to be the greatest gift of all, for me. I actually learned about the golf swing, mine.
I realized that trying to put every player into a particular swing mold is pure folly. We all feel motion differently.
Oh, I did play college golf, briefly, at Indiana University. Actually, during my college days I was on permanent 'recess'.....and THAT was far more important than getting an education or golf.....at the time..
That is a little about this guy who keeps writing these 'generic' sounding articles about the golf swing on the Internet and magazines as well as my weekly Internet/radio show, aptly named, THE mynegm LESSON TEE which can be heard streaming live at either wnri.com or mynegm.com every Wednesday from 12-1pm ET. The show, from a little AM radio station in Woonsocket, RI has a following after just over a year on the air, in 18 states and Canada.
I commit to those who begin to follow this blog straight talk about the golf swing, non glamorous as it may seem at times. It may bore you BUT I will almost guarantee if you will simply give what you read and hear from me a little thought....you might just wake up finding you are having more fun playing the game because you understand YOUR golf swing. And, when that happens I have found your balance improves and hence your ball striking...
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. Remember, the only question that is a dumb one is the one not asked.
I have been teaching for over 30 years around the U.S. and Caribbean, consulted on training aids, infomercials and teaching facilities as well as designing golf training aids over the years and co hosting a USGA national golf event. To say my background is varied and colorful would be a very mild understatement.
Originally form central Ohio, I was considered a natural swinger of the golf club from the age of 8 years. Unfortunatly, I had 'other' issues which prevented me from developing into a good competitor. In retrospect, however, my 'issues' turned out to be a blessing in later years as I came to realize my true 'lot in life', namely, teaching and communication of the golf swing to clients of literally all skill levels.
My training? Well, I think the call it the 'school of hard knocks'. There is no better teacher than experience and reality. I have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to pick the brains of some of the most renown teaching pros, tour players and club manufacturers over the years. This, along with my own rebuilding efforts after being forced out of the golf profession after a fall during a golf tournament left me partially paralyzed. It was simply one of those freak things that happens.
My rebuilding efforts over 18 months which included hitting over 140,000 balls, (I did NOT set out to do that----just thinking about it makes me tired!!!). Yes, I did rebuild my swing but what happened along the way proved to be the greatest gift of all, for me. I actually learned about the golf swing, mine.
I realized that trying to put every player into a particular swing mold is pure folly. We all feel motion differently.
Oh, I did play college golf, briefly, at Indiana University. Actually, during my college days I was on permanent 'recess'.....and THAT was far more important than getting an education or golf.....at the time..
That is a little about this guy who keeps writing these 'generic' sounding articles about the golf swing on the Internet and magazines as well as my weekly Internet/radio show, aptly named, THE mynegm LESSON TEE which can be heard streaming live at either wnri.com or mynegm.com every Wednesday from 12-1pm ET. The show, from a little AM radio station in Woonsocket, RI has a following after just over a year on the air, in 18 states and Canada.
I commit to those who begin to follow this blog straight talk about the golf swing, non glamorous as it may seem at times. It may bore you BUT I will almost guarantee if you will simply give what you read and hear from me a little thought....you might just wake up finding you are having more fun playing the game because you understand YOUR golf swing. And, when that happens I have found your balance improves and hence your ball striking...
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. Remember, the only question that is a dumb one is the one not asked.
It's your swng. Just ask Jim Furyk!
For over 30 years I have watched thousands of swings. Many of the more unconventional worked for students but they were not satisfied as they felt they were not 'doing what they were supposed to'...
This from even low handicap players and even aspiring tour players.
My comment to them has always been to encourage their unique golf swing while tweaking it.
Why? As you saw on Sunday's win by Jim Furyk of both the Players Championship and the FedX Cup, there is NO unorthodox swing.....so long as YOU understand it AND the club is on plane and square at impact.
What IS important is that you understand how balance relates to your swing motion and how your golf swing/balance affects your rhythm, tempo and timing.
Swing the club the way YOU understand it. Should you have balance issues, seek out a professional who can help you with THAT....and your swing...the way YOU understand it.
This from even low handicap players and even aspiring tour players.
My comment to them has always been to encourage their unique golf swing while tweaking it.
Why? As you saw on Sunday's win by Jim Furyk of both the Players Championship and the FedX Cup, there is NO unorthodox swing.....so long as YOU understand it AND the club is on plane and square at impact.
What IS important is that you understand how balance relates to your swing motion and how your golf swing/balance affects your rhythm, tempo and timing.
Swing the club the way YOU understand it. Should you have balance issues, seek out a professional who can help you with THAT....and your swing...the way YOU understand it.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
PRACTICE vs WARMING UP
I spent the majority of my time this year on the practice range and around the putting green at the Deutsche Bank Championship watching the players practice on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday then warming up during the event Friday through Monday.
On Thursday as I walked past the putting green, I saw Charlie Hoffman, this year’s winner, practicing 4-6 foot putts. That is to be expected. What struck me on this day was Charlie being so immersed in his putting practice. I used to see a lot of what Hoffman was doing years ago but not so much anymore at venues.
Charlie had set up tees off the toe and heel of his putter and one each to check the length of his take away and follow through. Watching him on the range then the putting green, I can tell you he spent as much time working on his putting as he did on his full swing that day.
I watched as he worked on the putting green for almost an hour. When I left, he was still at it. While I did not realize I was watching the eventual winner, I did have a sense I was observing one of the top 10 finishers of the event. It was his dedication to the flat stick and his stroke that, as a teacher, I took note of.
As the tournament got underway on Friday, I checked back on Charlie, and he was warming up on the range, like everyone else, under the silent and watchful eye of his coach, Sean Callahan. When players are warming up prior to the start of a tournament, generally the words from coaches to their players are words of encouragement.
After hitting balls and a little chipping, Hoffman went to the putting green where he practiced 4-10 foot putts without any putting aids. He hit a few long putts to get the feel for the speed of the greens. However, it was time to play the game, and he was tending to re-enforce his feel prior to the day’s play.
The point is to know when to work on your swing and when to simply warm up letting the swing take shape as you loosen up and get the feel of your swing before you play a round of golf.
Trying to practice as you warm up generally will turn a round of golf into a round of ‘golf swing’, where you are more focused on your swing and not the game.
On play day, put simply, “what you take to the range you take to the course.” As you warm up, you are looking for the feel you have been working on. No, you cannot make that feel occur. Either your practice has paid off or it hasn’t, and you are not going to fix the problem on play day.
To illustrate, as you go through your warm up routine, you find you simply cannot seem to find that feel you have been practicing. Or, your ball striking and feel is perfect on the range but disappears on the golf course.
I would submit to you, in either case that you are trying to force your swing motion, creating tension, throwing you out of sync, making feel nonexistent.
Trying to swing the club a particular way with no sense of feel, creates tension and your rhythm, tempo and timing go out the window. Remember. Less is more. Lighten up, warm up and go play the game. Feel the freedom of a balanced swing motion, relax and enjoy your round.
Know when to pull out the training aids and when to leave them in your car. Given a little time, you may just wake up and find you are having more fun playing golf because your practice/warm up routines are a bit more in perspective.
On Thursday as I walked past the putting green, I saw Charlie Hoffman, this year’s winner, practicing 4-6 foot putts. That is to be expected. What struck me on this day was Charlie being so immersed in his putting practice. I used to see a lot of what Hoffman was doing years ago but not so much anymore at venues.
Charlie had set up tees off the toe and heel of his putter and one each to check the length of his take away and follow through. Watching him on the range then the putting green, I can tell you he spent as much time working on his putting as he did on his full swing that day.
I watched as he worked on the putting green for almost an hour. When I left, he was still at it. While I did not realize I was watching the eventual winner, I did have a sense I was observing one of the top 10 finishers of the event. It was his dedication to the flat stick and his stroke that, as a teacher, I took note of.
As the tournament got underway on Friday, I checked back on Charlie, and he was warming up on the range, like everyone else, under the silent and watchful eye of his coach, Sean Callahan. When players are warming up prior to the start of a tournament, generally the words from coaches to their players are words of encouragement.
After hitting balls and a little chipping, Hoffman went to the putting green where he practiced 4-10 foot putts without any putting aids. He hit a few long putts to get the feel for the speed of the greens. However, it was time to play the game, and he was tending to re-enforce his feel prior to the day’s play.
The point is to know when to work on your swing and when to simply warm up letting the swing take shape as you loosen up and get the feel of your swing before you play a round of golf.
Trying to practice as you warm up generally will turn a round of golf into a round of ‘golf swing’, where you are more focused on your swing and not the game.
On play day, put simply, “what you take to the range you take to the course.” As you warm up, you are looking for the feel you have been working on. No, you cannot make that feel occur. Either your practice has paid off or it hasn’t, and you are not going to fix the problem on play day.
To illustrate, as you go through your warm up routine, you find you simply cannot seem to find that feel you have been practicing. Or, your ball striking and feel is perfect on the range but disappears on the golf course.
I would submit to you, in either case that you are trying to force your swing motion, creating tension, throwing you out of sync, making feel nonexistent.
Trying to swing the club a particular way with no sense of feel, creates tension and your rhythm, tempo and timing go out the window. Remember. Less is more. Lighten up, warm up and go play the game. Feel the freedom of a balanced swing motion, relax and enjoy your round.
Know when to pull out the training aids and when to leave them in your car. Given a little time, you may just wake up and find you are having more fun playing golf because your practice/warm up routines are a bit more in perspective.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
FUTURES TOUR PLAYER MY GUEST WEDNESDAY 8/4/10
Don't miss MYNEGM LESSON TEE, streaming live, at either http://www.wnri.com/ or http://www.mynegm.com/ in addition to WNRI 1380 AM radio.
Our guest Wednesday August 4th is LPGA TOUR hopeful and rookie on the LPGA/DURAMED FUTURES TOUR, Chelsea Curtis, Mashpe, MA.
Tune in or log on to MYNGEM LESSON TEE Wednesday at 12:05pm for another edition. The show, now in it's second year is growing. At last check, we are being followed in 17 states and Canada via the internet!
Our guest Wednesday August 4th is LPGA TOUR hopeful and rookie on the LPGA/DURAMED FUTURES TOUR, Chelsea Curtis, Mashpe, MA.
Tune in or log on to MYNGEM LESSON TEE Wednesday at 12:05pm for another edition. The show, now in it's second year is growing. At last check, we are being followed in 17 states and Canada via the internet!
Monday, August 2, 2010
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Radio/Internet guest for 08/04/10 Show.
The MYNEGM LESSON TEE radio/internet show, with a current following in 17 states enters its second full year on the air with guest and Duramed LPGA Futures Tour Player Chelsea Curtis Wednesday August 4th.
Chesea is in her first year on the Futures Tour after graduating from Georgetown where she also played for the golf team.
Currently in the top 20 on the Tour, Chelsea is in the running for Rookie of the Year honors.
This young lady from Mashpe, MA is a very interesting testament to the young women and men working their way on to their respective tours through the developmental venues of both the Duramed and Nationwide tours.
So join us Wednesday August 4th at 12:05pm on the MYNEGM LESSON TEE show when we'll be talking with Chelsea Curtis on this new chapter of her life, namely competitive golf.
This first year has seen Gregor Jamieson, former TOP 50 & TOP 100 teacher as designated by Golf Magazine, Dir. of Golf, Lake Nona Golf and Country Club and Isleworth Club in Orlando and coach to many international tour players like Retief Goosen and Helen Alfredsson. Also, repeated TOP 100 teacher Donald Crawley, Dir. of Instruction at THE BOULDERS RESORT in Arizona. Donald was the Dir. of Instruction, almost from the beginning, of the John Jacobs Golf Schools for over 20 years. Donald also works with many young up and coming tour players in addition to his teaching duties at THE BOULDERS and his travel around the U.S. with his GOLF SIMPLIFIED golf message.
We have also discussed swing methods, gotten insight from a Sports Psychologist into your mind on the golf course and its impact on the swing. We have also gotten tips from a Chiropractor for effective exercise to avoid many golf related injuries, as well as discussing the latest in golf equipment with a respected golf retailer and PGA professional.
The MYNEGM LESSON TEE show streams live via either http://www.wnri.com/ or http://www.mynegm.com/ in addition to the radio at WNRI 1380 AM News Talk Radio.
Wednesday August 4th is Chelsea Curtis of the LPGA's Duramed Futures Tour, 12:05pm ET on the MYNEGM LESSON TEE show.
Chesea is in her first year on the Futures Tour after graduating from Georgetown where she also played for the golf team.
Currently in the top 20 on the Tour, Chelsea is in the running for Rookie of the Year honors.
This young lady from Mashpe, MA is a very interesting testament to the young women and men working their way on to their respective tours through the developmental venues of both the Duramed and Nationwide tours.
So join us Wednesday August 4th at 12:05pm on the MYNEGM LESSON TEE show when we'll be talking with Chelsea Curtis on this new chapter of her life, namely competitive golf.
This first year has seen Gregor Jamieson, former TOP 50 & TOP 100 teacher as designated by Golf Magazine, Dir. of Golf, Lake Nona Golf and Country Club and Isleworth Club in Orlando and coach to many international tour players like Retief Goosen and Helen Alfredsson. Also, repeated TOP 100 teacher Donald Crawley, Dir. of Instruction at THE BOULDERS RESORT in Arizona. Donald was the Dir. of Instruction, almost from the beginning, of the John Jacobs Golf Schools for over 20 years. Donald also works with many young up and coming tour players in addition to his teaching duties at THE BOULDERS and his travel around the U.S. with his GOLF SIMPLIFIED golf message.
We have also discussed swing methods, gotten insight from a Sports Psychologist into your mind on the golf course and its impact on the swing. We have also gotten tips from a Chiropractor for effective exercise to avoid many golf related injuries, as well as discussing the latest in golf equipment with a respected golf retailer and PGA professional.
The MYNEGM LESSON TEE show streams live via either http://www.wnri.com/ or http://www.mynegm.com/ in addition to the radio at WNRI 1380 AM News Talk Radio.
Wednesday August 4th is Chelsea Curtis of the LPGA's Duramed Futures Tour, 12:05pm ET on the MYNEGM LESSON TEE show.
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