Summer Golf Camp: Week 2
Hey hey hey, Golf Boot Campers. This week we’re working on course management and confidence on the putting green. Strategic distance management and putting confidence are two direct ways to create a present mind set out there and optimize score. I’m hearing about breakthrough rounds this summer. Keep working hard - I love hearing the success stories!
Week Two:
Game Strategy:
Course management - Play a round of golf and start thinking a few steps ahead on each shot. Instead of just hitting the ball as far as you can toward the green, do some yardage math and start choosing clubs that will leave you at specific yardages. To make this easy, try to get to 100 yards (or your favorite short iron yardage) for as many approach shots as possible. Keep track and see how many times you can make that yardage. This may mean hitting a different club off the tee, or laying up instead of going for a green with a fairway wood or hybrid.
Practice Drill:
In basketball, you’ve gotta make your free throws. In golf, it’s 3-footers. To optimize your scoring potential, you need to be comfortable standing over and converting EVERY short putt. This week, find a putting green or a smooth carpet at home and start draining 3-foot putts. In this drill, I want you to count and see how many you can make in a row and then try to beat your record. The counting and record-breaking aspect will add a little real-time game pressure.
Conditioning:
Lower body strength is a big deal for balance and power. Try to work some squats into your exercise routine. You can use weights or your own body weight. Don’t overthink it - just bust out 10 quick squats in your kitchen while waiting for your coffee or toast. HERE is a good article on the importance of squats for golfers.
Mental Game:
Before each round or match, and after you’re finished warming up, I want you to hit the putting green and make ten 3-foot putts in a row right before heading to the first tee. Take the little practice pin out so that you can see and hear the ball pour into the cup. Making these short putts will trick your brain into thinking you make every putt you look at. This is a huge confidence boost and a great way to begin a round.