MASTERING YOUR MENTAL GAME
By Chris Kasheta, Head Golf Professional at The International

As you may have ascertained from my previous columns, I am a strong believer that the game of golf is 90 percent mental. We are all capable of swinging the clubhead in a manner that will strike the ball. While we may always want more distance or finesse around the greens, we can still have an enjoyable round. I’ve described several drills that will hone your technique, but to truly improve your game, you must spend at least as much time preparing mentally for each foray onto the course.

How many times have you been late, running to the pro shop to sign in, and been rushed to the first tee with barely enough time to change your shoes? Not only will your body be unprepared, but it will likely take a few holes to get your head into the game and focused on shotmaking. Plan to arrive at the course at least 15 to 30 minutes before your tee time. In order to feel focused and confident before play, you must first spend time stretching, hitting a few shots on the range, and taking a few practice putts.

Practice on the range the same way you would approach the course. After you have loosened up by hitting some wedge shots, make some full swings. Use the club that you anticipate using on the first tee. See which way the ball is traveling. Is it fading or hooking? Remember the ball flight. This will be quite useful when you step up to open your round.

Finally, make certain that you are as comfortable as possible when you play. Set up to the ball and take a moment to sense your rigidity. Are your arms hanging from your shoulders or reaching for the ball? Are your legs locked out or in a stress free, athletic position? Always strive for that relaxed feeling as you play. Being self-aware will allow more focus to be placed on what you are attempting with each shot rather than the things that you cannot control, such as the bunker or pond directly in front of you.