Global Sports: How To Develop The Mental Game Of Golf

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

How To Develop The Mental Game Of Golf

By Anita Ortega


Golf, one of the more popular games or sports of the world can be classified as a mental game. Many believe that it is more a mental game than a physical sport, which some may say may be a bit of an exaggeration. There is no denying however, that many coaches today do try to have their players improve their mental game of golf so as to improve their overall performance and outcome.

Rounds of golf are almost always comprised of players of differing temperaments. Some are hot headed and moody when something in the round goes wrong, while others exhibit an almost inexplicable gentlemanly calm. More often than not, it is the calm player that wins or gets the better of the round.

The sport of golf is most often described and attributed to in terms of the physical properties rather than the much touted mental aspect. This is so because one can easily see the physical aspects of this sport. One can easily see the swing, the backswing, the grip and stance for example and so these are the ones most commented on and analyzed more often than not.

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.

The best way to develop good mental prowess in this game is for one to get to know him or herself better first. By accepting what one can or cannot do, one can focus more on what can be done and will tend to become a lot calmer. Accepting the fact also that gameplay and results change on a day to day basis can also make you more humble not hot headed on any given time or day.

Learn how to do visioning before playing or taking a shot. This is done by closing your eyes and visualize everything that you want with the shot. Imagine how it will look like and imagine how it will feel like. When you are satisfied with the result make the actual shot. You will be surprised that what you just imagined in your head comes close to if not actually what happens on the course itself in reality.

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.

Most importantly of all, go ahead and enjoy the game. Enjoying golf and having fun will do wonders to your mental processes. So go ahead, smile, laugh and swing. Golf is a fun pastime after all. Remember that a positive attitude will do you more wonders than one thousand dry swings to improve your overall handicap.




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