Wednesday, April 16, 2014

The Benefits Of Having A Good Mental Game Of Golf

By Anita Ortega


Golf, as many would say is more of a mental sport than a physical sport. Many attest that it is over 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical, which sounds a lot like exaggeration. However, many do believe that if you do develop a good mental game of golf for yourself then you would succeed greatly in golf.

Many experienced golfer will say that a player is defined by the way he composes his mind game rather than by his swing. An example can be had after viewing many a round of golf with differing players. Some players have great swings but very poor composure, going into expletives and tantrums when something goes wrong. Some are very composed and calm whatever their round outcome. And more often than not, it is the latter player that beats the former in a majority of situations.

Many tend to see the physical aspect of golf more often than not on the course. This is because it is the more visible and salient part. One cannot see the brain at work in whatever situation. Thus the sport will more often be described in terms of the physical aspects, such as in terms of swing, backswing, the stance and so on.

The importance of having a good mind and attitude towards the sport can never be overstated enough. Though plenty still do not see much importance in it, developing it can do wonders for when developed and strengthened. Those people who have developed it properly see much improved handicaps, stroke reductions and overall satisfaction on a per round level.

For starters, develop it by starting the very first basic step, knowing yourself. Know and accept you are not necessarily the best player in the world like Tiger Woods or Gary Palmer. Know your overall abilities and limitations so that you do not ruin your round or your day when you shoot a crappy round. By accepting what you can or cannot do, you can focus more and keep calm.

Learn to visualize the shots before you play them. This is a great process by which others also call visioning. See the shot in your mind and imagine everything about it. Include all the little details like how far, how high and even how you feel when you have hit it. Once you have visualized the shot go ahead and take it. You will be surprised that more often than not, your actual play approximates the one in your head more often than not.

Your mental game is maximized and at its best if you are physically well rested and relaxed. Make sure you get plenty of rest and sleep before any important round. Also make sure that you do not drink at all or drink too much. Being sober also contributes much to you being able to vision properly.

And most importantly enjoy it. It is just a game after all so do not dwell on mistakes or failures during the rounds. Just take a deep breath, smile, enjoy the moment and swing on. Having this positive attitude will do wonders in developing your abilities than all of those physical tips you find.




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