Golf psychology tips for improvement

Golf psychology is not only about managing your mind better; it is also about using a common sense approach when the pressure is on. 

There are so many amateur golf players that do not utilize golf psychology to help them perform better, this is what the world’s best players concentrate on regularly, getting themselves in the right frame of mind before games by monitoring both their bodies and emotions. Obviously they have caddies and professional coaches to keep an eye on them. 

Golf takes place in the mind, and it’s not just a matter of positive or negative thoughts, in every shot there is a crucial time period where any thought could ruin your game. The key to Golf is controlling your mind and expectations effectively. When a pro golf is playing under pressure, the worst thing he can do is allow even the smallest of doubts into his mind. Any form of doubt will ruin your shot because this is a conscious thought and any conscious thought whether positive or negative will have  a bad effect when it comes to the swing portion of your shot. 

Try this breathing exercise

If you start to notice physical tension on or off the course, take a few 4 or 5 short inhalations, approximately one per second, do this until your chest is filled. Hold your breath for 5 seconds, then slowly exhale for 10 seconds and try your best to relax, just think about relaxation. From these small exercises you will notice your body becoming increasingly relaxed, this is the tension leaving your body. I recommend that you repeat this exercise 5 times, each time strive to deepen your relaxation.

Below are some tips to help you get in the right frame of mind for a big game. 

Eat and drink well

You should never underestimate the importance of fuelling your body with correct food and fluids, both before and during your round. Tiger Woods’ pre-round meal consists of just egg white omelet and vegetables, the vegetables contain antioxidants, these help protect the body’s cells from harmful chemical reactions.  Another suitable option would be some fruit and a small sandwich. Avoid eating heavy foods like a bowl of pasta or a burger and ensure you drink plenty of water, not fizzy drinks or coffee. Before a long round of golf it’s important that you choose nourishing foods that don’t add needless calories.

Relax and enjoy the game

It is worth remembering that golf is just a game, unless it’s your career then there is no point in getting frustrated and upset about it.  However, this is easier said than done, even the smallest of negative reactions can create stress and tightening of your muscles. Before every shot you should think “I am feeling positive about this shot, I know where it’s going, and if it goes wrong I will just relax and concentrate on the next shot”. Even professionals hit the ball into the trees and in the water, the only difference is they forget about and get straight back to a positive mindset; it is all about the present moment.

Monitor your breathing

One of the most effective ways of keeping calm is to monitor your breathing, and the great thing is that you can practice this whenever you feel like. Although you may not have realized it, most golf players have started breathing quickly on the first tee in a tournament. Monitor your breathing in the house when you are in a relaxed state and you will notice the pace of your breathing and if you are breathing from the higher area of your stomach or the lower area.

Have a consistent routine

Having a consistent shot routine is probably the most important part in playing with confidence, its important you just focus on the basics, and do this the same way every time, the rest of your swing will just happen automatically.  The key to having a consistent golf swing is to remember what those basics are, below is an example:

1. Address yourself – address your grip, alignment and balance

2. Takeaway - ensure your arms are relaxed; your shoulder should be turned to start your backswing.

3. Shift of weight – Most players move about too much during their downswings, the correct weight shift will keep the weight between your feet.

4. Rhythm – Rhythm is often neglected by golfers on their quest for a consistent swing, in my opinion if you don’t have rhythm you don’t have consistency.

Author byline:

This tip is brought to you by David, a keen golfer from South Wales that has a deep interest in golf and sports psychology. He regularly plays Golf at The Vale Golf Resort Wales and enjoys sharing tips with other golfers in his spare time.