HumanGolf Article Bank

Will Golf Schools Improve Your Golf Game?

2007-05-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

By Tim Hathaway

Are you serious about your golf game? Do you work hard and always look to improve? Have you taken golf lessons before? If you are serious about lowering your golf score and improving your game, and you have the time and money, you may want to really consider going to golf school. But what will you learn there?

All golfers can tell you what a complicated game golf can be. Even people like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson use coaches to help point out flaws and make adjustments and improvements in their game. So if two of the best players in the world can still benefit from instruction, chances are you can too. And a great way to get instruction that sticks with you is to attend a quality golf school.

Golf lessons are great. But most people don't take them consistently (they're quite expensive). Instead, they take one or two, usually on vacation, that last about a half hour. While you may pick up some pointers, it's tough to make permanent and positive changes in your game that way.

But by attending a golf school, you'll get one on one instruction with people who can work with you over a longer period of time. This way, then can critique your swing and help you make adjustments, while giving you enough time to work on those changes so that they become more of a habit and part of your game.

If you really want to improve your golf game and want your next golf vacation to be even more enjoyable, consider enrolling in a golf school.

Avid golfer and freelance writer Tim Hathaway writes about ways to improve your golf game for Golf Tips Made Easy where you can find more free golf articles and grab a free report, "Your Perfect Golfing Vacation."

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Golf School: 4 Questions You Must Ask Yourself

2007-05-17T16:30:00.000-07:00

By George Kerr

If you’re fed up with loosing every game and feeling that it is time to give up golf for good, then perhaps it is time to head for a golf school. But before you hand over your credit card, you must first of all think of four things when selecting your school.

What is My Goal?

All top sportsmen, whatever sport they partake, have a goal. This is something that most people overlook however it is a crucial step that shouldn’t be ignored. Think carefully about what aspect of your game you would like to see better results in. There are schools that specialize in specific aspects of the game.

Some golf schools will, for example, concentrate solely on your swing whilst others will look to improve every aspect of your game. Think carefully about this because it will affect your decisions on which school to attend

What Budget Should I Set?

Like it or not, chances are you are not a millionaire. Thus, you will have to select a course with price in mind as prices can vary considerably, anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. The price can vary due to the following:

Who provides tuition – big names attract bigger prices.
Location
Accommodation
One-on-one or group tuition
Video analysis of your golf swing

Should I Combine Lessons with a Vacation?

If you already go on a golf vacation every year then this is an ideal opportunity to combine the two as it will keep your costs to a minimum. Many people love the ability to enjoy the golf lessons by day but then have the freedom to explore outside and experience the local nightlife

Am I Prepared?

To get the most out of your golf tuition make sure you have done your homework. Have all of your needed tools and equipment with you and remember you can only get out of your schooling what you put in.

In order to improve your game, constructive criticism is a must. Don’t be afraid of asking questions, you are there to learn, not pretend you know everything to fellow students.

Want to know how to achieve a 20-yard gain after just one adjustment? Learn how now by visiting HPGolf.

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Do You Need Golf Lessons?

2007-05-17T16:11:00.001-07:00

By Matt Robinson

If you’ve been thinking about taking up golf, or if you’re a golfer in search of a better game, you may have considered golf lessons. But are golf lessons really beneficial? And how do you find a pro who will offer good advice?

There are some who swear that lessons are vital and others who say that practice is the only thing that will improve your golf game. The truth seems to lie somewhere in the middle. But before you drop your coach or sign up for lessons, consider what it is that you hope golf lessons will accomplish. Outlining your goals may help you decide whether you truly need lessons or simply more time on the course.

If you play with others who play exceptionally well, you may want to find someone to give you some help with your game. Whether that’s a paid coach or merely a friend who plays well is strictly a personal choice. Getting some pointers and tips may be a good way to ensure that you don’t totally embarrass yourself in front of other players.

If you’re serious about the game, you’ve probably been involved long enough that you don’t need advice on whether to get a coach. But if you’ve only recently discovered the joy of golfing, you may find yourself looking for a way to improve your game. Golf lessons could very well be the answer.

Some people say that lessons give them a set time to practice and an opportunity to completely focus on the game. You’ll typically be less interrupted than if you were playing on your own, stopping to chat with friends along the way. But others say the simple fact of having someone scrutinizing every move and offering constant advice is more distracting than helpful. Decide whether you’re one of those who accept direction and works well in that situation. That’s a major clue as to whether golf lessons are a good idea.

Remember that a golf coach’s job is to teach you to golf correctly. That means that there are some habits that he (or she) will be trying to ingrain and others they’ll be trying to break. While golfing correctly is a terrific goal, many golfers have some bad habits that they tout as benefiting their game. Changing your grip, adjusting your stance or even using different equipment may be among the “must do” list from your coach. You may resist those changes. You have two options. You can do your best to follow the instructions, or you can explain that you aren’t planning to change that particular habit. If you don’t plan to change, you may need to reexamine your decision to take lessons. Without following directions, lessons may become a waste of time and effort on both parts, and money on yours.

Golf lessons are great for some people. It’s a personal decision whether you are one of those who will benefit from a coach – formal or informal. But remember that the most important thing to improve your golf game is simply practice.

Matt owns ultimate golf tips that helps people drop 7 to 10 shots per round of golf using online golf lessons.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Discover the Benefits of Attending Golf Schools

2007-05-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

By John Peace

Golf schools are getting more popular and many people are attending it. They provide people who are interested in the sport an opportunity to learn it the right way. Starting on a wrong footing may develop bad habits later which are difficult to correct. For a beginner who wants to start learning the sport, enrolling in a course in a golf school is a good start. In a golf school, the learner receives proper training, guidance and direction. The golf school will teach learners a broad understanding of all aspects of the game, focus on sound golfing principles and provide unique insights that allow learners to appreciate some ways of developing their skills. Learners certainly need to acquire a good knowledge base about the swing, how to make certain shots, how to use and apply the rules of golf and how to strategize in a game. The golf schools have incorporated all these essentials in the programs they offer.

Taking lessons from a qualified golf trainer expedites the learning process. Trainers are knowledgeable in all aspects of the game and able to identify each individual learner’s strengths and weaknesses. The common problem with many poor players is that they do not know how to execute some shots and tend to repeat the same faults over and over again. If these mistakes are not correct at the onset, it may be difficult to correct it later. Qualified instructors from golf schools can offer sound instruction and help the learners to avoid the usual pitfalls. Besides teaching good golf techniques, the trainers also provide valuable feedback to learners on their performance. The trainers help to identify their mistakes and teach them how to correct them. As golf involves a wide range of skills, the learners need to know which specific areas they are weak in. They will then be able to focus on those areas that need the most attention and make improvement in those areas. Being aware of their weaknesses and strengths, they can keep a close track of their progress. A reliable source of feedback is important for the learners who seek to make progress. This in turn would greatly enhance the quality of their practice sessions and their enjoyment of the game. It is indeed beneficial to learn from a qualified professional. Learners should find a good golf school with qualified instructors and invest in a series of lessons in order to learn golf more effectively.

The golf school organizes programs which has a course structure with a clear set of objectives that offer direction and motivation. The course content covers all the aspects of golf the learner needs to know and the program allows the overall learning to be progressive. Each program consists of a fixed number of lessons in which all participants need to follow. The participants will learn according to the content set out in each lesson. As it is a structured learning program, there is little risk of missing anything out. The school creates an environment in which learners are motivated to improve their standards and performance levels.

As golf schools are aware that players now demand higher personal standards to satisfy their golfing goals, many of them have made available the use of up-to-date facilities and equipment to keep up with the advancing standards in golf teaching. If the surroundings do not contain the right learning facilities then the trainer’s role of identifying and setting out areas of improvement for the individual will be more limited and less effective. The teaching environment has to offer the maximum opportunity for progress and development.

In a golf school, the practice and amount of work and study can be rigorous. If you are interested to start taking lessons, it is good to get yourself prepared to undergo a period of intense practice. You will be required to hit a lot of balls in a short period. The schools’ sessions can run from one to seven days. As group size varies, you may need to check the school’s student-teacher ratio. It is a good idea that you choose a school that has a program which suits you. Nonetheless, you need to make a commitment to work hard. You should be ready to work with your trainer and alongside your peers in enhancing your own personal capabilities and building your competitive skills. In golf schools, there are players who make good progress in a fairly short time.

It is preferable that a beginner seek the help of a professional early, so that sound golf principles could be adopted in the early stage. That makes it easier for both the learner and the trainer. For those who are playing well and are not enrolled in any golf school, it is a good idea to begin lessons now and take the quality of the game to the next level. Golfers who seek to enhance their skills get greater satisfaction and pleasure from their game. For more information, please visit Golf Schools

John Peace is a freelance writer with a great interest in golf. He writes for the golf schools site where you can get more information on golf schools, courses and golf news.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Find the Best Golf Training Aid

2007-05-17T15:08:00.000-07:00

By Staffan Moritz

It’s time to improve your golf game so listen up!

Have you ever considered getting a golf training aid? If so, you want to get the best golf training aid available but you may not always know where to find them. Every golfer knows that there are many great training aids on the market to help improve your game. There is absolutely no shortage. However, the problem lies in finding the best golf training aid that fits your specific needs.

They all claim to sell the best golf training aid products and they might be but that necessarily make it the best for you. Every golfer is different and therefore, each player has different needs when it comes to a training aid.

When researching to find the best golf training aid, you should first begin by looking at the different products that are currently available on the market. Do a search on the internet or in a local sporting store near you. This will give you a good idea of what's available out there. Doing the research is crucial if you don't want to waste money on the wrong training aid.

If you are shopping for the best golf training aid for yourself, you need to be able to honestly evaluate your playing skills and where you need help. First, it is important that you know your weaknesses. Do you have a hook, a poor grip or do you have sloppy swing? Are you a professional player or an amateur? Are you a left-handed golfer? These are all very important points to think about when finding the best golf training aid for you. The more you know about your weaknesses, the better decision you can make when purchasing a golf training aid.

Do your research to find the best golf training aid that fits your specific needs and you can be playing like a pro in no time. Your golf buddies will come to you for advice.

Staffan Moritz publishes the Golf Secrets News site. If you want a shortcut to finding the best golf training aid, sign up for your free golf newsletter.

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Master the Golf Stance — Tips to Improve Your Golf Swing!

2007-05-17T14:44:00.001-07:00

By Mike Allen

One of the key foundations to any good golf swing is the golfers stance at address. If you have a good stance than your chances of delivering a solid blow to the back of the golf ball increase.

If you perfect you stance than you will be in balance with the golf swing and good balance will give you a controlled swing. You can work on your stance at the driving range so that when you get on the tee box you will feel comfortable when you address the golf ball.

Make sure you have a comfortable stance because if you feel uncomfortable that you will more than likely end up hitting a bad shot. Also, getting in a comfortable stance will make you tension free and no tension in the golf swing is a good thing.

The correct way to have a golf stance is to have your arms hanging loosely from your body and your hand should be below you chin. Bend from the hips not your back because bending from the hips will allow you get maximum rotation in your backswing.

Bend your knees slightly so that you feel you have and athletic stance. Also keep your chin up but not so high that you have a hard time seeing the ball.

Depending on the club you are playing the ball should be in the middle of your stance for higher lofted clubs move the ball back in your stance. For lower lofted clubs move the ball foward in your stance.

Once you have a comfortable stance it is now time to swing away. Get a comfortable stance and you will give yourself a great chance at hitting a solid golf shot.

Mike Allen writes for Golf Obsession which provides a free download of the best putting tips around.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

How Do the Wrists Release in the Golf Swing?

2007-05-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

By Will Robins

The perfect golf swing is not just in the shoulders or the arms. The way your wrists release during your golf swing can have a major impact on the ball. So, how do the wrists release in the golf swing?

If you don't release the swing at the wrists just right, you may end up with a slice. This is what most beginners, and quite a few pros, often do. Of all the culprits that might be ruining your game, you may not think to blame those harmless old wrists. Let's take a look at the way you release that swing...

Perfect Timing Means Perfect Results

Here's the perfect release: Make a good backswing turn. As you start your swing, shift your weight to your left foot, the forward foot of your swing. As you swing, you unwind, starting with your legs and torso, then moving on to your shoulders and arms.

But wait a minute! Keep those wrists locked up. Until the very last part of the downswing, keep those wrists locked. Then, let them go and watch that ball fly.

Wait!!! Not Yet!

Most golfers release their wrists too soon in the swing. You just can't wait to send that ball flying, so you start to swing your shoulders and arms down too early, instead of letting it start naturally with the torso. You end up swinging the club down and then you have to release the wrists in the middle of that downswing.

You've really got to wait until the final nanosecond of the downswing to let the wrists go. The timing is something that you have to work on. You shouldn't have to force it; if you let yourself unwind just right, your wrists will know when to release.

Usually, when you release your wrists too early, you end up hooking the ball. If you get lots of hooking, you should take a closer look at your wrist release.

What Happened?

Some golfers don't release the wrists at all. This is most often due to nerves, or trying to force the ball right into the target area. You might be uncertain of your shot, and this will make your shot stiff and frozen. It sounds bad, but even very good golfers do this.

If you don't release the wrist at all, or not enough, you'll end up hitting the ball much shorter than you intended to. You probably will be closer to your intended target, but you'll lose yards and yards on it.

Get it Right!

Here's a good tip for you when you're practicing: Relax. Let all that tension go. Being nervous about your shot is the number one cause of improper wrist release. Twist your body, put your weight on your forward foot, and do it. It should be a natural motion, and you just can't be natural with it if you're whole body is tense.

Here's another way to think about it: You are using the rotational force of your body. Black belts in karate rotate their torsos in the same way to add power to their punch.

Getting the right wrist release is a Zen thing; it happens when you don't think about it. Sound esoteric? Sorry about that! Put another way, you shouldn't have to consciously release your wrists. If you twist your body just right and let the natural rotation do its thing, your wrists will know when to go.

A good grip, a good set up, a natural swing and you don't have to do anything at all. Just let those wrists go!

Will Robins writes for Get Good at Golf where you can find more golf driving distance and golf improvement information.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Tips for Improving Your Golf Swing Timing

2007-05-17T14:32:00.001-07:00

By Anthony Lee

To be good in golf, the person will not just swing as hard as possible to get the ball to land near the hole. The most important factor is timing because the body and mind has to work together to make it happen.

The player has probably heard this line said a million times but is this put into practice? Not all the time perhaps because the muscles are probably weak after going through a few holes with only a little energy left towards the end of the tournament.

The only way to be consistent in each swing is through practice. This is done not only with the club in the hand but also with stretch and strength exercises. The objective of this is to improve the build endurance and give flexibility to execute food golf swings.

The back swing is where everything begins. Since the player holds this with both hands and this appears heavy, many just release it too soon thus executing it purely. The person can improve here by holding it in this position for 10 seconds without moving then going through the motion until the follow through.

It is best to have someone observe the technique to check for errors or do this in front of the mirror. If this is too difficult, perhaps getting a video cam to record it then watching it later can help make the necessary connections.

Another exercise is called the overhead stretch. This is also important since the motion starts at the top of the head. Holding the club with the hands shoulder length apart and with the armpit-facing front is the proper way to do this.

It is also advisable to let the legs stand 2 feet from each other to promote balance. The individual must do this ten to fifteen times for about five to ten seconds each before bringing it down and doing it again.

The shoulder is the most part of the body that gets injured in golfers. This may happen due to overuse, which can be avoided by stretching properly. The player will roll the shoulder a number times forward and the same on the opposite arm.

This will prove to be useful for both arms as the individual will swing from one side to the next in getting the ball off the ground and into the intended target.

There are two other things that will help in the timing during each swing. The first is a good shoulder turn that will create a coil and guide the ball in the direction where it is supposed to go.

The second is the position of the chin is also important during each swing. It is advisable to keep the chin up ad not down because this allows the left arm to move freely across the chest. Studies have shown this will provide the player a wide arc that is needed in hitting the ball.

When the individual has developed strength in the upper body, it is time to do some practice swings. It is best to do a few slow ones first then increase the tempo later on.

If the ball is able to go in the same direction as the previous ones, then the individual has got it. This should be practiced as often as possible so that this will be easy when it comes during the tournament.

Anthony Lee writes for Improve-Golf-Game.info where you can learn more swing techniques for improving your golf game.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

How Do I Swing a Golf Club?

2007-05-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

By Wade Robins

Here it is! Your first, most basic step on your way to the golfing hall of fame. The first thing to learn is how to swing a golf club.

Now, we can talk about the biomechanics of the golf swing; about resistance and G-force, the single plane vs. the double plane approach, go into detail with the physics and equations of the golf swing... but first, the most basic and universal piece of advice anybody can give you for your golf swing:

Relax

The golf swing is actually a natural motion, and once you know how to do it, it's just like breathing. Don't get intimidated by all the jargon and mathematics. The most important thing, as any pro golfer will tell you, is to take a deep breath, relax and let the golf swing do its thing.

Having said that, let's look at how you swing the golf club, step by step and broken down.

Get a Grip

First, hold the club straight in front of you, just about perpendicular, with your right hand. Now, wrap your left hand around it. The club should be resting on the pads of the inside of your fingers, the digit closest to the palm, and the palm. You may hold your left hand at a little bit of an angle, so that the middle digit pad of your index finger is in contact with the club. Do whichever feels most comfortable to you. Your thumb should rest on top, pointing along the shaft of the club.

Now, re-wrap your right hand above your left hand on the shaft. You have your left hand wrapped around the shaft with your palm and base finger digits, right? Well, you should be holding the club with the right hand chiefly with your fingers. It should be just above the left hand and your right thumb should stick a little to the right.

The grip is a little tough to master, and there are a variety of ways to do it. There isn't really a "right" way, just go with what's best for you.

The Right Golf Stance

If your stance isn't right, your entire swing will be ruined. You have to get the stance just right, and it takes practice. If your stance (also called "address") is good, the swing will be a natural fluid movement. It will take some work at first, but over time, you can work on perfecting your stance.

For starters, make sure you're balanced. You should have your weight evenly distributed on both feet. Have you ever seen golfers wiggle their butts back and forth before taking a shot? They look stupid, but they're checking their balance. Make sure it's as even as possible!

Your front foot should be just ahead of where your ball is. Your legs should be shoulder-length or a little further apart. If you drew a line across the tips of your toes, it should lead directly to your target.

Keep your back straight, but relaxed. Keep your chin up. Most importantly, be comfortable.

It's Go-Time!

Now, twist at the torso and lift the club with your arms. You should coil up like your body is a spring, and you should be swinging down at the ball.

Most importantly, don't swing with your arms. Wind up, and then gently unwind your body, starting with the lower back and torso, then the shoulders, and finally let the wrists release a little bit at the end.

Don't swing too fast! Faster doesn't mean farther. Your swing should be smooth and natural, not forced and tense.

The swing is really just the final part. The grip and address are considered by most golfers to be much more important in determining a swing's success.

It's really hard to get the right swing without some one on one training. Go golfing with some buddies and don't just spend your time practicing and getting whipped; pick their brains on strategies and swing technique, and most of all, be observant.

Finally, keep track of your mistakes and always look for ways to improve. That's how the pros did it.

Wade Robins writes for Get Good at Golf where you can find more golf driving distance and golf improvement information.

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Learn the 3 Components of an Effective Golf Swing

2007-05-17T14:02:00.000-07:00

By Tim Hathaway

How the heck do I swing a golf club properly? That's what goes through a lot of people's mind when they first take up the game of golf. Let's face it, a proper golf swing is not a natural movement and many golfers struggle with it, even golfers that have been playing the game for years. So how do you develop a consistent, quality golf swing?

If you can narrow down all the rules and techniques involved in a golf swing to a few key components, you'll find it a lot easier to swing the golf club effectively. One of the biggest problems most people face when learning a new skill, whether it's golf, baseball, basketball, or anything else that involves a number of different 'rules.'

Your mind focuses on all these different things, making it very difficult for you to turn those rules into reality. For golf, you're talking about grip, stance, wrist cock, arm extension, shoulder turn, and on and on.

By whittling this down to a few key components of a golf swing, you'll free your mind up from all these different tips, so you can focus on what's really important which is the golf swing itself.

By breaking it down into backswing, downswing, and follow through and focusing on one at a time it will make it a lot easier to produce a good golf swing.

Backswing

The backswing is one fluid motion. Focus on bringing your club back with arm extension, trying to keep your front arm as straight as possible. This will naturally force your body rotation. Let it happen. If you can do this, you'll have a consistent, smooth backswing.

Downswing

The downswing starts with your legs. Your body has naturally rotated due to your backswing. It has coiled itself. Now let it naturally uncoil, transferring your weight from back to front.

Follow Through

When the club face impacts the ball, the club face should form a straight line with the forward arm. Your weight, as your body uncoils, should naturally transfer to your front foot. Your wrists should rotate over, which brings the club face square to the ball at impact.

There are a lot of factors involved in a proper golf swing, even when trying to break it down to the barest of the fundamentals. However, you have to start somewhere. Keeping things as simple as possible in the beginning will keep you from getting overwhelmed with all that's involved in a good golf swing.

Avid golfer and freelance writer Tim Hathaway writes about ways to improve your golf game for Golf Tips Made Easy where you can find more free golf articles and grab a free report, "Your Perfect Golfing Vacation."

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

What Clubs are Most Important?

2007-05-17T08:45:00.001-07:00

By Rick Hart

Golf requires many kinds of shots — drives, long approach shots, short approach shots, pitches, chips, sand shots, putts and a variety of so-called trouble shots. To play all these shots you can choose, per the rules of golf, up to 14 clubs to have in your bag. Of those 14 clubs which are the most important?

By far the most frequent shot is a putt. For an average golfer, the putter is used more than twice as much as any other club. If a golfer shoots a score of 100, 35%- 40% of those strokes will be putts. So based on shear numbers, the putter is the most important club. It certainly is the one club that can make up for bad shots very quickly.

For better golfers, the driver is used the next most often—a possible 14 times from the tee, or roughly 12-20% of the time depending on ability level. That first shot from the tee sets the tone for the hole, so that makes it a very important club. A good drive makes the rest of the shots on that hole easier. A bad drive means ...well trouble. Making sure you have a driver that you have confidence in is critical to good golf.

Having a back-up to your driver is also very important. For those holes where length is not critical, having a club that you know will put you in the fairway is just smart golf. This could be a three wood, a five wood, a hybrid or a 5 iron. It's more important to know you have a club in your hand that will find the fairway.

For beginners, who have a hard time hitting the green in a regulation number of strokes, the wedges may be the second most used category of clubs. On a good day a beginner may hit 1-4 greens so they spend a lot of strokes around the green (15-20). Practicing with a wedge from 25 yards and in will take strokes off a beginners score very quickly. In fact, at any level having confidence in your wedges makes golf a lot easier.

The remaining strokes in a round are spread among the rest of the set. It is likely that no one club will be used more than a few times. So in terms of frequency of use the putter, driver and wedges are clearly used the most frequently with the rest of the clubs bringing up the rear.

On the other hand, the importance of a club has a lot to do with it's effect on our games. A club that has the potential to cause problems (strokes) must be given added weight. The more difficult a club is to hit the more likely that it may cause disaster. The driver, the long irons, and fairway woods are the most likely culprits to cause that errant shot that never is heard from again. Good bye ball.

It’s no coincidence that these problem clubs are also the longest clubs in the set. We can all agree that the longer the club, the harder to hit. As our abilities improve we can begin to take advantage of what the longer clubs offer (distance) but to help our games now, finding forgiving versions of these clubs is a priority. Thankfully, we have many new possibilities with higher lofted drivers, fairway woods and the new hybrid clubs.

The bottom line is confidence. Build a club set that has clubs that you have trust in. Knowing you have a favorite club, or clubs that you can hit consistently will make the game more fun and give you something to fall back on when your swing goes south. I guess the you could say the most important club is the one you have the most confidence in...no matter what it is.

Rick Hart is a long time golfer and owner of Golf Club Revue where he puts the spotlight on golf clubs.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

How to Turn Your Golfing Pastime Into a Ticket to College

2007-05-15T03:40:00.000-07:00

By Gregg Hall

Do you love the game of golf? Is being out in the sun trying to capture that elusive hole in one, a dream come true? Why not put your skills to use and gain a scholarship to the college or university of your choice?

Did you even know that many colleges and universities offer golf scholarships? You are not alone. Few realize that a passion for golf can help gain affordable entry into a college or university that meets and exceeds many dreams. It is not hard to receive one of these scholarships, but it does take a little marketing.

Golf scholarships are usually only partial scholarships. They will not cover the entire cost of your education, but every little bit helps. The good news is that because they are only partial, there are more of them. It is easier to get a golf scholarship than it is a baseball, football, or hockey scholarship. Odds are high that you can nab a partial scholarship to the school of your choice.

There are more than 280 colleges for men and around 215 colleges for women that offer golf programs at a division one level. For division two, there are around 185 colleges for men and 90 colleges for women that offer golfing. This means there are more than 3,500 scholarships available for both men and women.

Not every school offers a golfing program, so you will need to check carefully to see if the schools on your list have them. If not, you may need to be adaptable to where you get your college education.

The most important trick is to make yourself know to golfing scouts. Play golf in high school if possible, some schools offer golf as an extracurricular sport. Get to know the different coaches. Be subtle, but charm them into knowing and remembering your name. Play well and make sure they know you are excelling.

To gain a golfing scholarship, you will need to contact the colleges that make your list and then ask them for information on the program. You will need to pay attention to the rules of the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) and the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.) They have strict rules that must be followed, but they also keep detailed lists of all available scholarships and offer information for both students and parents.

When applying for a golfing scholarship, you will need to prove you excelled at both golf and in school. Read all applications carefully and provide all of the necessary forms. Failure to do so can lead to a declined application. If you have questions, always ask first before sending in your forms.

You can use your passion for golf to receive a scholarship that will help you gain a college education while enjoying your sport. Take time to thoroughly research your options and then enjoy the ride!

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. He writes for Scholarships Plus More.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Golf Betting Basics

2007-05-15T03:34:00.000-07:00

By RJ Bell

The key to golf betting is differentiating the two main wagering options, so we're here to serve as your gambling caddy and give you helpful tips on how to understand PGA golf odds. With golf, you can either bet on an individual to win a tournament or take part in "Matchup Betting" which involves wagering on artificially created golf matchups set by oddsmakers specifically for betting purposes.

"Betting to Win" an outcome event like The Masters is the most common way to wager on golf. Since golf has multiple tournaments over the course of a year, "Betting to Win" obviously offers numerous wagering opportunities.

Keep in mind that not all the competitors in a PGA golf tournament may be individually listed to win, so another golf betting option is the "field" bet which includes all other competitors not listed.

The PGA golf odds on a "field" bet depend on how many golfers are listed and how likely it is for the top golfers to win. In other words, if the same five or six golfers seem to battle it out for the top spots atop the leaderboard from tournament to tournament, the odds on the "field" will be much higher since there is less likelihood that one of the longshots in the "field" will win. However, major upsets seem to occur much more often in golf than other sports, so a "field" bet is typically comparable to a bet on the favorite odds-wise in order to protect sportsbooks from taking a big hit. In exchange for a lesser payout, field bettors do gain the advantage of having more than one entrant that can win for them.

Here's an example:

Favorites or top golfers = 5/1 to 10/1
36 or so other well-known golfers listed individually = 10/1 to 200/1
Field (collection of 36 or more not listed) = 10/1

Some sportsbooks will also allow you to bet futures on the four major PGA tournaments, which is yet another way you can "Bet to Win" that can offer you appealing odds because you are betting far in advance of when the event takes place. For example, betting on the 2006 Masters golf tournament now might get you much better value on Tiger Woods, who may be 10/1 at this moment but dip to 6/1 closer to the event if he is on a roll.

"Matchup Betting" offers an alternative to simply betting on a golf tournament's winner. Artificial head-to-head matchups are created by oddsmakers and involve golfers who are all competing against each other to win the tourney, with the bet specifically focused upon how one golfer finishes compared to another golfer in the matchup. Group matchups are another "matchup betting" option particularly popular in golf and auto racing events like NASCAR, where you can select how one golfer will finish compared to other golfers in the group. Both head-to-head and group matchup golf odds are based on the money line.

If you like a particular golfer going into a tournament, your best move is to compare matchups across multiple online sportsbooks and bet a larger amount on the biggest mismatch in your estimation. Then you can also put down a small wager on your favorite golfer to win the tournament in case he does come through and win the tournament. By betting your golfer to win the tournament and a matchup, you'll have double the fun knowing you've got double the chances to win!

Here are a couple final important tips to consider before picking your golfer:

It's advisable to stay away from betting the public's favorite golfers since you won't get much value there
Research the golfer's history, especially how he performs on a particular course since tournaments are typically played on the same course each year and some courses definitely play to a golfer's strengths better than others

If you are a knowledgeable PGA golf fan who has a good feel about how tournaments will likely turn out, you should most definitely trust your insights and use them to find strong bets. For those of you with less experience, several sports web sites have power rankings for golfers which should give you a good idea of who's hot on the links and who's not. Of course it's up to you to decide which golfer you want to bet on, but the more you learn about PGA golf, the more prepared you will be when placing your bet. Hopefully now at least you know the basics of betting golf and how to use golf odds to your advantage!

RJ Bell is the founder of Pregame.com - Where sports bettors get ready. RJ has been an expert contributor to Maxim Magazine, CNN.com, About.com, and ABC News - and has won 3 world handicapping championships! Located in Las Vegas, the Pregame.com team works at adding to your betting confidence with powerful game insights and sportsbook reviews. FreePicksByEmail.com, the biggest daily sports betting newsletter, delivers help from famous handicappers.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Golf Course & Waterfront Living: Live, Play, Relax

2007-05-14T18:23:00.001-07:00

By Teddy Jansen

With today’s planned lifestyle communities, golf and boating enthusiasts have an opportunity to purchase the home of their dreams just a chip shot away from the green or stone’s throw from the marina. In addition to an ideal home setting, golf and waterfront community residents enjoy an active and diversified lifestyle experience complete with first-class golf courses, marinas, beaches, spas, clubhouses, recreation areas, fine dining and countless other amenities.

Out of the 10,000 master planned communities across the United States, over 2,500 are built around golf courses and pristine waterfront property. Making sense of all the options can be mind boggling. If you are thinking about relocating to one of these golf and waterfront communities, it is imperative to be able to distinguish one community from the next and more importantly, know what to look for before you buy.

Community Types

In the past, golf and waterfront master planned communities catered to distinct segments of the housing market, namely middle to upper income empty nesters and retirees. Things have changed. Today, golf course and waterfront developments are designed to accommodate budgets of all levels and generally fall into one of two categories: multi-generational and age restricted.

The construction of multi-generational communities represents a recent trend in planned community home building. The underlying idea is to attract a diverse population of families including retirees and young professionals of varying income levels and backgrounds in order to establish a robust and vibrant community. After decades of building age restricted communities, builders and developers have recognized that the traditional elements of planned community living such as security, on-site amenities and low maintenance housing appeal to home buyers of all ages.

Most new communities are multi-generational developments. Vistancia situated in the beautiful Sonoran desert outside of Peoria, Arizona is a recently opened golf community attracting individuals and families of all ages. Since home sales began in March 2004, almost 500 families have moved into this scenic development with 1,700 total acres of open space and a 900-acre mountain preserve.

Conversely, age restricted planned communities are developed for the +55 home owner with amenities and facilities for today’s discerning empty nester and retiree. Typically, the age restriction requires one household resident to be at least 55 in order to qualify for home ownership. Over the last decade, an evolution has occurred with the age restricted community model of yesteryear making way for contemporary activity based developments complete with lavish amenities and world-class recreation areas, not to mention the conventional facilities required by the +55 demographic.

The undisputed leader in age restricted master planned community development is Del Webb. Since the 1960s, Del Webb has constructed numerous age restricted golf and waterfront communities across the United States. Del Webb’s Sun City developments are arguably the most recognizable line of age restricted communities stretching from coast to coast with Sun City Hilton Head in North Carolina and Sun City Lincoln Hill in California.

Location

The most important criterion in selecting a traditional home is location and the same is true when deciding on a golf and waterfront community. The old adage “location, location, location” aside, one has to consider whether the new property will serve as a primary residence, second home getaway or retirement abode. The final location decision is generally based on three primary factors: home use, surrounding area and local weather.

For most of us working folk, our primary residence is located within an hour or so of a major metropolitan center. Don’t fret, there are hundreds of golf and waterfront communities centrally located within driving distance from most major metropolitan areas. If by chance you live near Dallas, you have several options to choose from including Stonebridge Ranch in north Dallas and Black Horse Ranch which is only 25 minutes from downtown. Washington D.C. commuters are also in luck with conveniently located golf and waterfront communities in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware. Belmont Country Club, a Toll Brothers property, is a mere 40 minutes from Washington D.C. in Ashburn, Virginia. These examples represent only a fraction of the actual number of suburban golf and waterfront developments.

The location decision is a bit more complicated and not as clear cut when one considers purchasing a second home retreat or retirement residence. In this situation, other factors come in to play such as the activity and cultural richness of the immediate area and of course, local weather. If you are looking for a second home, would you like to be nestled in the woods away from the hustle and bustle of the city, located in a more suburban area or some in between?

Climate is also an integral factor to take into consideration when purchasing a home particularly if you are feeling abused by recent harsh winters. This may clearly point to a direction that takes you out of your home state or even to another part of the country. Conversely, the summer’s never ending heat may drive you to consider the cooler climates up north. Fortunately, there are 2,500 golf and waterfront communities spread out across the United States from Minnesota to Texas and California to Massachusetts.

What is clear in the case of retirement homes is that good local health care and transportation facilities are a must. For most retirees, living over 60 miles away from the closest hospital or airport is just not an option. In the end, it comes down to striking a balance between modern necessities and the beauty of the great outdoors.

Amenities

Once you have settled on a geographic location, the next area to focus on is amenities. These can vary greatly from one golf and waterfront development to the next. Typically, these expanded ‘goodies’ fall into two categories: conveniences and lifestyle enhancements. Conveniences include such things as security services, home maintenance, gardening services, concierge service, on-site retail and office space, cable television and high-speed internet.

Lifestyle enhancements relate to recreation activities and rest and relaxation befitting an enhanced life of leisure. One can find a mix of facilities at planned communities which support numerous activities like tennis, hunting, boating, skiing, and hiking. To balance the rigors of recreation, planned communities provide residents with rest and relaxation amenities such as spas, clubhouses, wilderness preserves, pools, beaches and fine dining.

With real estate opportunities for every budget, isn’t it about time you looked into moving to a golf and waterfront community that offers unbelievable vistas, year round activities, low maintenance living and first-class amenities?

Teddy Jansen writes for Golfidea where you can find more information on vacation and retirement real estate.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

How to Determine Your Golf Handicap

2007-05-14T18:15:00.001-07:00

By PJ Powers

Your golf handicap is calculated with a formula that averages how a player should be able to play better than par.

There are two slightly different ways to calculate your handicap which I detail below.

A wide spread belief amongst golfers is that a player's handicap is their average score, when in fact a your golf handicap is only the potential of your game. Most golfers play their handicap 25% of the time which is know as playing your "average best". So in a large, handicapped competition, the golfer who shoots the best with respect to his or her abilities and the normal variations of the score should win.

While there are many variations, handicap systems are generally based on calculating an individual player's playing ability from his or her recent history of rounds. Therefore, a handicap is not fixed but is regularly adjusted to increases or decreases in a player's scoring.

A golfer whose handicap is zero is called a "scratch golfer." A golfer whose handicap is 20 is called a "bogey golfer." It is possible to have a handicap below 0; these are referred to as 'plus' handicaps, and at the end of the round, a 'plus' handicap golfer must add his handicap to his score. A professional golfer plays off scratch, but has no actual handicap.

In the United States, handicaps are calculated using the player's most recent game scores, along with the course ratings and slopes from the courses played.

Here's how to calculate your golf handicap.

Step 1. Take the scores from the last five rounds (18 holes each) that you played.

Step 2. Get the rating and slope for each course that you played for each of these five scores. You can find this information on the the course's scorecard.

Step 3. Now subtract the course rating from the score you earned on that course.

Step 4. Then multiply that number by 113.

Step 5. Then simply divide that number by the slope of the course. This number is known as your differential.

Step 6. And last... Take the lowest of your five differentials and multiply it by 0.96, and you'll have your handicap!

Now as you may have figured out from the above, recalculating your handicap every time you play can be time-consuming and annoying. So you may want to look up some great Golf Handicap Tracker software packages that can do all the leg work for you in one single swoop.

Discover the little known scorecard secret top players use to consistently improve your game and lower your handicap. Calculate your golf handicap with a state-of-the-art golf handicap tracker. Limited time offer don't miss out. Check out http://www.golfintel.com

PJ Powers writes for Golfintel which helps you discover the little known scorecard secret top players use to consistently improve your game and lower your handicap: Calculate your golf handicap with a state-of-the-art golf handicap tracker.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Learn the Secrets of Buying the Perfect Golf Gift

2007-05-14T18:05:00.001-07:00

By Dane J Stanton

On that special someone's birthday, it's so hard to find the perfect present. Is your husband or boyfriend madly keen on his golf? What about a golf gift of some sort. There are literally hundreds of possible golf gifts to choose from and all of them I'm sure he'll love. You really can't go wrong buying your partner a golf gift, as long as you already know they're mad about golf that is? This article will describe a couple of the main types of golf gifts and what they are used for.

Golf Gift Number One – Golf Clubs

Of course no golfer is complete without a good set of clubs and if you know your partner's looking into buying a new set of clubs because the old ones are completely out of date, than why not get him a new set? First of all there's some things you need to know first before you decide to buy a set. There are almost too many brands on the market to choose from so you have to make sure you get the right set. First of all check to see what brand of clubs he already has. This will give you a clear indication that he likes that brand. All you have to do is get an up to date set for him of the same brand.

If he doesn't have a set of clubs already then you going to have to make a decision on how what type of clubs you want to buy him. You can easily spend over $1000 on a set of clubs, but if you don't want to pay that much then there are lots of brand out there that sell great quality clubs for half that price. If you know your husband doesn't care about brands then this option is the best one.

Golf Gift Number Two – Golf Gift Set

Golf gift sets are comprised of a whole bunch of golfing equipment such as golf balls, tees, gloves shirts and other apparel all combined into one package. Depending on the brand of gear in each set, pricing can range from $50 to $300. The reason why you can't got wrong with this particular gift is because it contains all the essentials for a keen golfer. As far as he's concerned, you can never have enough, tees and balls. You can be certain that this particular golf gift will be welcome with open arms and he's going to love you for it.

So if you are sure that all he wants for his birthday or Christmas is a golf gift, then going for these two particular presents is a great idea and you can be rest assured that he's going to be happy!

Dane J. Stanton writes for the Golf Shops Reviewed site where you can get more free golf information, reviews, and lots more.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Why Walking is Better Than Riding a Golf Cart

2007-05-14T17:46:00.001-07:00

By Juzaily Ramli

We might not realise this, but golf is good for your health. According to the United States Golf Association, that is. Their expert advice is for you to forgo the rides on the golf carts and walk the golf course.

Even though driving around in the golf carts is the easiest way to get from one hole to another, it will be even better for you if you decide to walk along the fairway. By walking, you get to exercise your heart, which pumps and circulates blood all over your body. Besides that, walking is also a great enjoyable workout.

According to David Fay of the United States Golf Association, walking makes the whole golf game more satisfying. He further commented that whizzing around in golf carts should be stopped.

Walking is the most basic way for you to get fit. It is good exercise because it is easy to do and anyone can walk. It improves circulation and strengthens your muscles. In a nutshell, walking is beneficial for all.

Some people believe that walking around the green while playing a round of golf is not a healthy thing to do, due to the nature of the game itself. On the other hand, research has shown evidence of many people who related their own experiences with walking through a game of golf. Many of these people told of the positive effects of walking.

In Sweden for example, researchers discovered that the benefits of walking through a game of golf is equivalent to about forty to seventy percent of intense workout in an aerobics class. This is on the basis of playing eighteen holes.

In a separate study done by cardiologist Edward Palank, it was found that golfers who chose to walk the greens were healthier than their cart-riding counterparts, as they had a lower level of bad cholesterol in their bodies. At the same time, the good cholesterol level in their bodies was normal. This cannot be said for golfers who opted for rides on the golf carts.

The Golf Science International also concluded that playing golf for four hours was equivalent to attending a forty five minutes fitness class. Another association, the Northern Ohio Golf Association testified that when a golfer chose to walk across the golf course, he is walking for a total of roughly three to four miles. This includes walking up and around hills, on the fairway, and over the greens and tees.

Still not convinced? Try out the following activities. That will give you a chance to see and feel the difference yourself. The next time you play a game of golf, try walking along alternative holes. That way, by the end of it all, you would have walked a total of nine holes. It is all right if you do not feel up to it. The next time, try walking a set of nine holes and riding the cart for the next nine.

If you golf with a partner and he insists on you riding the golf cart together with him, fret not. Just make sure that you ride only on the path meant for the cart. You can stop the cart and walk down the fairway to your ball. That way, your partner can bring the golf cart up.

Are you still not convinced? Then look at it this way. If you think your health does not permit you to walk around the course to exercise your legs and start your heart pumping, then look at this in another light. Consider the damages done by all those golf carts running around the fairways. Golf carts damage the areas around the greens and sand traps. Even though the golf carts are only supposed to be on the assigned golf cart path, this doesn't mean that they do. Most of the time, people will drive golf carts all over the course.

With the advent of new technologies, golf courses now boast magnificent looking grasses. These grasses are grown even on areas where they were not able to originally. That is why golf courses nowadays look fantastic. However, these courses are exposed to the wear and tear, more so from the roving golf carts. Driving the cart along the greens will damage the beautiful grass.

Now that you have all the facts, isn't it time for you to go green? Walk! Not only will you benefit from getting all that exercise, you'll also be saving the greens.

Juzaily Ramli and his friend Tommy Lehmann are golf enthusiasts and proud owners of Free Golf Tips and Free Golf Lesson websites.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Use Golf Instruction to Become a Star Player

2007-05-14T17:38:00.000-07:00

By Staffan Moritz

You might already think that you are Tiger Woods, but the only way you can really become a better player is to get some sort of golf instruction. Even professional players use golf instruction so it should be good enough for you too. We all have areas of our game that we need to work on, and it can be hard to be objective about your own game and your faults. However, having a good golf instructor help you iron out the problems in all areas of your game will make you a more consistent and complete player.

When looking for the best golf instruction, follow my advice to get the most value for your money.

Personal coach

Getting a private coach can be costly, but there is really no better way to learn. With a few lessons under the right coach you can see instant improvements in your golf game, with better consistency and lower scores. If you want to get a head start when you first start playing golf then getting a one-to-one instruction is a must. If you can get the basics right with a coach then you will be in a great position to improve your game in the future.

Videos and manuals

Although not as helpful as having a private coach, there are many good manuals and golf instruction videos on the market. It will often cost you much less than a private instructor. However, make sure you only pick videos that are recommended by official organizations or professional players. Don't expect to improve your game overnight from these videos, as it will still take plenty of self discipline and practice to get better.

Be your own golf instructor

You can learn a lot from being your own coach. Use the golf instruction you pay for to learn how to see problems in your game and improve them yourself. Also, watch good players and pay attention to everything they do well. Use these techniques in your own game and you can help to iron out the problems independently.

Yes, there will be times when golf instruction is the only option, but you can save yourself money by learning how to identify minor problems yourself.

Staffan Moritz publishes the Golf Secrets News site. If you want a shortcut to finding the best golf instruction, sign up for your free golf newsletter.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

How to Get Back to Golf After a Lay Off

2007-05-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

By Bill Maitland

If you have not played golf for a period of time whether due to work illness or injury, the situation is the same.

You wonder how you are going to play.

How many trips to the trees on the side of the fairways.

How many bunkers are you going to visit.

Whether you can still get out of a bunker.

Whether you can get off the tee, and how is your putting going to be?

You are quite a serious golfer and you give much thought about how you should return to this wonderful game. What you decide to do is go to the practice fairway and hit a heap of balls.

You go through the routine of starting with your pitching wedge and then work up to your driver. So far so good and you will certainly benefit. This is a good plan, but there is a better one.

During your session which you no doubt enjoyed, you have probably hit too many balls and your muscles are not up to it.

You will know this by how you feel next day if you go out onto the course. The very fine muscles have to have time to recover. Until they do, you will play dreadfully.

OK, you still have to go out onto the course and get over the mental block that is probably affecting your game. Just feeling a bit negative.

If you are not feeling negative, you probably soon will be as you duff and hit with hook and slice into the trouble on each side. If you don’t do this, then well done. Most of us will.

Then again you may have a great round on your initial return to the game, but on your second, the wheels will fall off. Has this ever happened to you? It certainly has to me. You become a little disheartened and you begin to dislike the game a bit. All this is leading up to a suggestion that you may find to your liking.

You love playing golf don’t you?

Well, why don’t you go out onto the course straight away and have a good time. Don’t try to beat the world on this round. Just enjoy yourself. Just relax. However, take notice of where your weaknesses are. Where the changes in your game have crept in during your absence.

Have a couple of rounds and write down your weaknesses. THEN go to the practice fairway.

Now, you have a plan of attack. Have a look at your first weakness.

Perhaps you are duffing your chips a bit. Well, spend a practice session with your pitching wedge and hit short shots, long shots, hit over imaginary bunkers, hit high shots that stop quickly and so on.

Become totally confident with this important scoring iron again. Then on your next practice session, address your next weakness.

Spend time on it and do not go on to the next until you have mastered this aspect of your game to your satisfaction. OK, it takes a bit of time. So does learning any skill, and this one is one of the most difficult isn’t it?

The time spent will return huge dividends.

Also, having a plan will strengthen your mental attitude and you will play with much more confidence when you start competitions and more serious play.

You will be able to fill your mind with the good shots you hit at practice making it impossible for any negative thoughts to exist.

Bill Maitland is a thinking, inventive golf guru. He thought out and developed simple techniques and tips which enabled him to lower his handicap from 25 to 18, then from 18 to 15, and finally from 15 to 12. He is a passionate golfer, and delights in helping others with their game through his website, Online Golfers Handbook.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Golf: The Universal Sport With Proper Instruction

2007-05-14T17:04:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Richard Myers

Golf is an interesting and popular sport which originated in Scotland in the seventeenth century, although it had been in existence in one form or the other even many centuries previous to that. In most places of the world, especially the United States, it is very popular among the business community. It has long been thought that many a board room decision has actually taken place on the golf course and just endorsed formally at the meetings. Therefore, knowing golf is considered an extra skill in business circles. Many good universities even offer courses to teach golf to interested people. But everyone may not have the time or money to learn golf from a professional teacher either in person or through an institute.

A good alternative would be to watch a golf instruction video produced by professionals. Golf instruction videos offer the comfort of learning at one’s own convenience, pace and location. You may not even need to go to a golf club and still gain sufficient knowledge about the game by carefully watching and assimilating a set of good instruction videos. Even further on the plus side, one doesn't feel hesitant to watch a video ten times over if you are having a hard time grasping some concept. If you're shy about "owning up" to a shortcoming and dread facing an instructor to ask "what?" over and over, these are for you.

Videos can either be purchased in stores or online. There are many websites which provide golf instruction videos if one is serious about learning golf. Worth noting, in either case, is who is featured on the video. Check the instructor's professional profile; a player who has sufficient experience in the game is most likely to give better instruction than someone who has not had that much exposure on the course.

The upside to any instruction video is the motivation "knowing and understanding" lends to get you up and onto the golf course. Thus golf instruction videos provide an excellent complement to instruction, but never can replace the "real thing."

Knowledge gained and applied provides a great starting point for the beginner, and an increase of skill for the intermediate to advanced golfer. Independent of weather, proper instruction can increase your enjoyment and decrease your score for that perfect golf game.

Dr. Richard Myers provides the avid golfer with golf instruction video products to improve his or her golf game. Stop by Think and Reach Par and see what everyone is raving about!

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Improve Your Game Through Golf Instruction Videos

2007-05-14T16:59:00.001-07:00

By Dr. Richard Myers

There are many methods of golf instruction, from one-on-one training with a professional to group lessons. Golf instruction videos have many advantages over face-to-face classes or other learning methods such as books or audiotapes. You can both see and hear the instructions as you perform the task. The instructor on the video becomes your personal teacher taking you step-by-step through each skill. You can set your own pace and repeat the video over and over as needed. You can watch certain sections at any time of the day or night. If you are embarrassed about the weaknesses of your golf game, you can work on improving them in the privacy of your own home.

With thousands available you should have no problem finding the golf instruction video best for you. As with any training tool, you need to choose one that addresses your specific needs.

While some video ads make outrageous claims about its ability to improve your game, take it with a grain of salt. Look at your golf instruction video as a guide, not a guarantee. A golf instruction video will not magically transform your game. Watch the video several times, however, to make sure you have extracted all the tips and advice offered. Several small pieces of advice can add up to a big difference and big improvement.

A golf instruction video visually presents methods to improve your golf. Compare the visual examples provided with what you do yourself. Get someone to videotape your swing, putt or whatever you are working on with the video so you can see where you differ from the advice in the video. Look at posture and stance, backswing and follow through, and look for differences. It’s not easy to see and correct your faults without taking a very close look.

Consider your fitness level. You can’t take advantage of everything a golf instruction video has to offer without having muscles fit for golf. Try doing golf-specific exercises so that you can be sure that your muscles are ready to be trained for improved golf.

Ask other golfers if they have used a golf instruction video that has been helpful. While your needs may differ, you might find a different video from the same company if you get a good recommendation.

Dr. Richard Myers provides the avid golfer with golf instruction video products to improve his or her golf game. Stop by Think and Reach Par and see what everyone is raving about!

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Where to Land Your Ball When You Hit Your Bunker Shot

2007-05-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

By Bill Maitland

The first thing to do when your golf ball is in a bunker is to get out with your first attempt and to get the ball onto the green isn’t it?

The thinking goes a little further than this. O.K. you have to hit the golf ball quite a long way, middle distance or quite close. So you swing accordingly.

In each case, it helps to know how the ball will behave once it lands on the green.

So, you have a good look at the green before you hit your shot.

Remember how I recommended that you go into slow mode when you have to play a bunker shot? Well this is part of that. You remember that you have to hit the shot with a sort of slice that passes beneath the ball. Think that this cutting action or slice, is perfected by

Hitting your golf shot from out to in and
Keeping your club face open.

Keeping your club face open is the second big rule about getting out of a bunker. Remember, the first is hitting from out to in as just mentioned.

Now, such a shot if played correctly will cause your ball to fly a bit to your right, hence you line up to the left of the hole to allow for this.

The ball also will break to the right as well.

Therefore looking at the contours of the green where you intend to land your ball will allow you to hit a more accurate shot.

So the third rule of bunker play is to have a good look at the green slopes in the vicinity of the hole and read them accordingly.

Contours of the green that slope to the right will cause your ball to break and move to the right far more than if hit onto level ground.

Conversely, if the slope is to the left, away from the hole, the amount of ball movement to the right will be greatly reduced.

So, allow for these two elements when hitting your golf ball out of a bunker.

Bill Maitland is a thinking, inventive golf guru. He thought out and developed simple techniques and tips which enabled him to lower his handicap from 25 to 18, then from 18 to 15, and finally from 15 to 12. He is a passionate golfer, and delights in helping others with their game should they want his help. To receive a valuable weekly golf tip go to his web site and subscribe to his free Hole In One News Letter. You will be so glad that you did. Author of GOLF TIPS. An e-Book that takes you step by step to being the best golfer that you can possibly be. To learn about his tips and simple techniques And see his book, Online Golfer's Handbook.

Tips for Teeing Off

2007-05-10T08:19:00.001-07:00

By Robert Partain

Here's a driving tip that just about anyone could use and put into practice immediately. It has nothing to do with your swing mechanics, your club selection or even your mood. It has to do with geography and your own style of play (ie, do you normally fade or draw).

It's rare to come across a course that is all flat or all straight. Courses are laid out with turns and hills and hazards, which makes the game what it is. A key to solid play is to use that geography to your advantage while teeing off.

This tip begins even before you step up on the tee. As you're walking toward that tee, look ahead and get a sense of the layout of the hole. Is it straight, is it a dogleg? Once you determine how the hole is laid out, look for that far away spot that you realisitically feel your tee shot can travel. In other words, where do you want the ball to land?

When it's your turn to tee up, keep in mind that you do not have to place your tee in the center of the tee markers. You are allowed to use whatever room there is there and it's important that you do this.

If you watch the pros, you'll see they take the time to survey the hole and the teeing area. They will "see" where they want their ball to land on the fairway, and then they will tee up in an area that will help them reach that target using their natural swing and ball path.

Say, for example, that your natural golf shot is a fade. On most holes you should tee the ball up on the right side of the tee box, fairly close to the right side tee marker. If you then aim at the the left side of the fairway your fade will bring the ball to the middle of the fairway. If for some reason you hit the ball straight, you will finish on the left hand edge of the fairway. If, however, your fade turns into a slice you should still end up on the right edge of the fairway. Either way, you should still have a shot to the green.

Having that shot to the green, no matter how your ball flies, is crucial to lowering your score, hole by hole. In fact, this one little tip when used properly can shave as many a 8 or 9 strokes off the average player's score (on 18 holes).

As with everything in golf, this takes a little getting used to, but it's certainly worth the effort. It will also give you an enormous boost to your confidence when you play a new course for the first time as this tip works everywhere.

Robert Partain has been an avid golfer for over 40 years. He publishes a golf blogm Golf Tips Center, that is updated 4 times a week with golf tips, techniques, and information.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

Tips for Correcting a Golf Slice

2007-05-10T08:12:00.000-07:00

By Gary Gresham

Correcting a golf slice is the fastest way to shave strokes off of your golf game. Slicing a golf ball is one of the most common errors that an average player makes.

Some golfers remain frustrated for years because they never find out why they are slicing a golf ball. But if you are ever going to become a good golfer, correcting a golf slice is a must. These simple tips will show you how to cure golf slices just by practicing some basic golf swing tips and instructions.

Proper Golf Stance

A proper golf stance should be about as wide as your shoulders. Make sure your shoulders are aligned at your target. Point your right foot straight ahead and point your left foot slightly to the left. Keep your elbows as natural as possible to maintain a proper golf stance.

Even minor adjustments to your stance can make major changes in where your golf ball will end up. Practice the proper golf stance at the driving range and make small adjustments until you get the results you are looking for.

Proper Golf Club Grip

Another common way of correcting a golf slice is adjusting your hands for a proper golf club grip. Grip the golf club with your left hand and put your thumb along the shaft.

The line between your thumb and index finger should be pointing toward your right eye. Wrap your right hand over your left and rest your left thumb into your right palm.

A common mistake most right handed golfers make is gripping the club too tight with the right hand causing the ball to hook towards the left. But the opposite is true with a slice. A weak grip creates an open club face causing your ball to slice to the right.

The best way of correcting a golf slice caused by your grip is roll your hands back so that your non dominant back hand faces the target and your dominant back hand faces the opposite direction.

Practice the proper golf club grip at the driving range to determine if this is what's causing you to slice the ball. Take your time and make small adjustments to your grip. Even though a proper golf club grip seems simple, it is one of the most common ways of correcting a golf slice.

Correct Golf Swing Mechanics

Correct golf swing mechanics is another cure for correcting a golf slice. A proper golf backswing starts with your hands, is immediately followed by your arms and shoulders all in one smooth motion.

A proper golf downswing begins with your hips, keeping your eyes on the ball and your head behind the ball as you follow through. Once you practice the correct golf swing mechanics, you'll be amazed at how quick you will lower your golf score.

Becoming a good golfer is a matter of practicing and playing on a regular basis while developing good habits. Small changes can often make a big difference in your score. Once you practice correcting a golf slice you'll soon be hearing, "great shot!"

Gary Gresham writes for One Stop Shopping Online where you can find a great selection of new and used golf clubs, golf clothing, accessories and green fees at fantastic prices.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

The Art of Aiming a Golf Ball

2007-05-10T07:57:00.001-07:00

By Nicholas Sy

Golf is a game that is played with a variety of different physical skills and techniques. it is also a game that is played with the mind, your mind ultimately makes the final decisions and that tells your motor system where and when things will happen, hopefully this happens in some sort of dignified occurrence.

Some of the skills that the game of golf demands, and especially putting, are directly related to the golfers peripheral vision, depth perception, binocularity, eye-hand coordination, aiming accuracy,and visualization. These are skills that most golfers take for granted, because they are much more basic than grip, stance, and swing mechanics.

The problem with golf is that what a player perceives optically can be crystal clear and inaccurate at the same time. In the game of golf everything that a player dose is directly related to what the player sees and perceives. Having to stand off to the side of your target instead of behind it, really wrecks havoc on the players optics. Trusting what you are seeing in golf, can be equated to being in house full of mirrors, you can very easily be fooled if your precipitation doesn't match reality, then what you are visualizing is an illusion. When your optics are tricked you tend to view everything a little out of whack.

However it is possible to re-educate your optical perception. If you are taking up the game for the very first time this is an excellent place to start. With a few simple exercises can make all the difference in the world as you start off on your quest to perfect putting. Putting is a skill that doesn't involve a lot of mechanics, but it dose require excellent perception.

More experienced golfer will use a spot that is a few feet in front of the ball when they are aiming. When they place their putters behind the ball, they will aim the face of the putter or the lines on the putter towards the spot that they have chosen that is a few feet in front of the ball. Most player find that it is a lot easier to align the ball to a spot that is a foot or so in front of the ball than it is to align the ball to the hole which may be several feet away

Nicholas Sy writes for Playing Winning Golf where you can learn more about improving your golf swing.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

Golf Club Shafts: So Important to Winning

2007-05-10T06:56:00.000-07:00

By Peter Lenkefi

This article dwells into the importance of the golf club shaft in the game, and lists the most important considerations.

Steel or Graphite Golf Club Shaft?

The two most important parts of the golf club which can spell the difference between winning and losing are the head and the shaft. The shaft of the golf club connects the grip to the head. Most modern golf club shafts are made of either steel or graphite.

Most manufacturers rate their shafts in one of six degrees of stiffness. From least to most stiff these are: Ladies (L); Seniors (A); Regular (R); Firm (F); Extra Firm (X); and Stiff (S).

Most golfers prefer a shaft that is stiffer, and manufacturers can only oblige. If you make the shaft super stiff, however, you can begin to affect distance and strength negatively.

Then there’s the difference between steel and graphite golf shafts. Generally, if you have back problems or not very confident with the strength of your swing or drive, you should stick with the graphite variety.

Graphite golf club shafts reduce the weight of your club (you can really feel the difference if you’ve used steel shafts before). They weigh between 50-85 grams, while their steel counterparts generally start at 120 grams. Graphite shafts reduce the shock at impact. They also allow for longer clubs. But remember, longer clubs are good for distance, not for control.

Aldila graphite shafts are highly recommended. Their durability is proven. If you’re the type who prefers steel shafts, the most reliable brands are FM Precision, True Temper and Apollo. They are proven toughies in their class.

Peter Lenkefi writes for Golfschooltips.net where you can get more information on golf club shafts.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

Golf Club Components: Playing Golf the Lego Set Way

2007-05-10T06:51:00.000-07:00

By Jonathan Berry

To understand how to buy golf club components, you first need to know how these parts work and what they are in the first place. So let’s begin in this way. If you know the parts already, treat this portion as a short review of Golf 101.

The Grip

The grip of the golf club is important because it is the extension of the golfer's hands. According to the rules of golf, the grip has to be round, without obvious pockmarks which detract significantly from the roundness.

The Shaft

The shaft of the golf club connects the grip to the head and, like the grip, must also conform to accepted roundness rules. Most modern golf club shafts are made of either steel or a carbon-fiber and resin composite. Now it’s about time to explain the concept and the theory behind a golf club component. The operant word is assembly type. It’s like playing Lego set. So let’s say you want to fit your choice of shaft to the rest of the club components, you’ll be running into a vendor that sells a golf component kit. Now you’ve got to be careful about whom you trust in this business. It’s easy to ruin your investment. It can get scratched or worse, broken. It’s not a simple glue or Epoxy situation.

Some unscrupulous golf component vendors use a sacrificial laminate process, involving grinding the outside of the shaft. By cutting the fibers on the surface, energy and feel are lost. Solution: Look for a high grade modulus shaft fiber which results in very little loss of energy from your hands to the clubface.

Jonathan Berry has been publishing articles for over 20 years. He also writes for Golf-Clubs-Reviews.info where you can enjoy more golf-related articles.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

Beginner's Guide to Buying a Set of Golf Clubs

2007-05-10T05:59:00.000-07:00

By Jason Griffin

You walk in to a golf store and there are hundreds of woods, irons, wedges and putters to choose from along with clothing, balls and all kinds of accessories. When just starting out in golf, choosing a set of clubs can be an overwhelming task. What is one to do? What decisions need to be made when buying a set of golf clubs? This article aims to help you know what you need to know, so you can make the right call and save you a little dough in the process.

First, you need to know what makes up a set of clubs? Well there are four main parts to a set of clubs: Woods, Irons, Wedges, and a Putter. These days you also have the Hybrid Clubs. These are a cross between irons and woods. People who have trouble hitting their long irons, such as a 2 or 3 iron, tend to use these types of clubs instead. You are allowed up to 14 clubs in your bag and they can be in just about any combination you want. For example, in my bag I carry a Driver, a 4 wood, 3 thru 9 irons, pitching wedge, gap wedge, sand wedge, lob wedge and a putter. This arrangement of clubs fits my game and the types of courses I usually play.

Next, what options are out there when buying a set of golf clubs? To start out with you can buy new or used. Used can be a money saver over new, but can also come with some inherent problems, such as, worn grips, cracked shafts and other problems. When you are buying a first set, these are not things you want to deal with. So, I would recommend going the new route.

Now that you have decided on purchasing new clubs, the next option is buying a complete set or putting one together. Putting a set together yourself will be the more expensive option over buying a complete set. Also, getting a complete set takes much of the hassle and intimidation out of the decision making process.

As a beginner, you should buy a complete starter set. This will usually include a Driver, 3 wood, 5 wood, 3 thru 9 irons, a pitching wedge and a putter. Some may even include a sand wedge and a golf bag. This is only 11 or 12 clubs you say! What else should I get? Don't worry about this now. As you improve then you can think about adding another wedge, a 2 iron or a hybrid of some sort. Until then you are just wasting your money. You would be better off spending your coin on some lessons and improving your swing. Remember, expensive clubs won't help you play any better. Why spend $300.00 on a Driver when you can spend less than that and get everything you need to play except golf balls in one package. A complete set is a great way to save some money in the beginning, since you're going to be spending enough cash replacing a lot of those lost golf balls.

Jason Griffin is a regular golfer who loves playing golf and trying to help other golfers, hackers and weekend players get more enjoyment out of the game. He is the guide behind the Guide to Golf Equipment - Your Information Source for Equipment Used for Golf to give you a little help finding the right golf equipment.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

Beginner or Novice Golfers: Start With a "Pre-Owned" Set of Golf Clubs

2007-05-10T05:27:00.001-07:00

By Ernie Horning

As a beginner or novice golfer, you want to avoid the expense of purchasing a "New" set of golf clubs, and concentrate your efforts on finding a good set of "Used" golf clubs (also know as "Pre-Owned".)

Major golf club manufacturers introduce new lines of clubs almost every year. With the yearly advances in golf club technology, many golfers regularly upgrade their existing golf sets in pursuit of improving their game and lowering their handicap. This leaves the golf club market flooded with high quality, bargain sets of golf clubs. The trade-in market has become so huge, that a few major golf club manufacturers have launched their own sites to meet the demand, like Callaway Golf. The question is where, and how, do you find the best set of clubs for you?

Online is a great place to start. You want to get a feel for the market by comparing the prices of the "Pre-Owned" clubs offered by the thousands of sites advertising the sale of used clubs (Searching "Google" alone will bring up about 700,000 sites.) Surf a few sites and compare the quality and prices of numerous club sets. While you are on the internet, eBay may also prove to be beneficial in searching for your set of used golf clubs. The selection and variety of clubs available changes daily, so you will have to keep a close watch to find the best deal for your golf clubs.

Also, you may want to look for a "Beginner" golf set, which usually consist of the #3, #5, #7, and #9 irons. Beginner sets of clubs normally include a "Wood" or two, and a "Putter" as well. At this point in your golf career, you really don't need to purchase a "full" set of clubs. Mainly, because you may not be playing golf very long or very often. The best choice may even be a "Pre-Owned" beginner set of clubs. Don't confuse a set of "Beginner" golf clubs with "Kids" golf clubs, which come in smaller sizes and/or lengths for kids. If you feel like you are bending over too far to swing the clubs, they are probably too short. You should be able to stand fairly straight, with your knees slightly bent, and your arms should hang freely as you grasp the club.

Your local newspaper is also a great place to look for a set of clubs. All year-round you will find bargains on some quality sets of golf clubs. This also gives you the opportunity to see and swing the clubs. It helps to get a feel for the clubs before you buy the set. Check out the condition of the grips, shafts (steel or graphite), and the club heads. Compare them to other clubs you have seen for the same price. Many people are selling some very nice clubs because they have either updated their own set of clubs, or have given up the game of golf.

Local golf stores and sporting goods stores are a good place to shop for a "Pre-Owned" set of golf clubs. Many are now accepting trade-ins, toward the purchase of a new sets of clubs, and re-sale the use golf clubs at good prices. Many have an in-store practice tee or net for you to try the clubs before you buy them. Your nearest driving range or pro shop may also carry "Pre-Owned" sets. They might even give you a free bucket of balls while you try the clubs. They can also advise you on how the clubs fit your body type and swing.

Last, but not least, check with friends, relatives, co-workers, or any contact of yours (and your spouse if you have one.) Golf popularity is at an all time high, you might be surprised who you know that plays golf. Odds are, if they have been playing for awhile, they have an extra set or two in the garage that they might be willing to sale. They might even let you try them out for free, to see if you like the game. And wouldn't that be the best bargain of all!

Ernie Horning owes multiple businesses and is an avid golfer. He also writes articles for Golfgodz.com.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

5 Easy Steps to Replacing Your Golf Grips

2007-05-10T05:02:00.000-07:00

By John Bolt

Replacing your golf grips is like servicing your car; you must do it on a very routine basis to keep them in top working order. We suggest changing your grips at least once a season, maybe even twice depending on where you live and how much you play.

People think that you must have your grips replaced professionally. This is incorrect because it can get costly. Actually replacing your own golf club grips is a really simple job. You will learn a lot about your clubs and save you some money.

Below we will walk you through the quick simple steps to doing the job yourself. But first there are a few things you will need:

New golf grips
Exacto or sharp knife
Double sided tape
Cleaning solvent
Work bench vice

Follow these quick easy steps:

Place the club in the work bench vice and tighten with the grip being fully exposed. Take the exacto or sharp knife and cut the grip from the shaft up to the end of club, cutting away from your body.
Remove the old grip and clean the shaft of the club with the cleaning solvent using an old rag or brush. Then dry the club off completely.
Wrap the double sided tape down the shaft the length of the grip. Make sure that portion of the shaft is completely covered and remove the backing on the other side of the tape.
Pour some solvent over the tape. Line the grip up with the club and slip it towards the head of the club. Remove the club from the vice and place the head on the floor and make the minor alignment adjustments.
Let grips dry for a few hours (3).

Give this a try; it is a very easy process and simple task to do. It can be a great learning experience and a lot of fun. It will help you learn a little more about your golf clubs and save you some money. So get the things you need and get busy.

John Bolt is the full time owner of Golf Equipment Source. With years of competitive golf experience under his belt, he understands the importance of having properly fitted golf equipment.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

The Cost/Benefit Analysis

2007-05-10T04:04:00.000-07:00

By David Nevogt

There is a very useful method that many accountants use called "The cost/benefit analysis". You may be familiar with it. The analysis is done to cut the company costs that do not provide a specific benefit. It's done on all the different costs of the company, and then the accountants can then analyze which costs provide a lot of benefit, versus which costs provide little benefit. Then quite simply, the costs that provide little benefit are cut.

The golf swing is really quite complicated. The reason that I wrote The Simple Golf Swing was to get rid of all the unnecessary movements that end up causing many golfers trouble. To do this, I applied the cost/benefit method, but I did it in golf terms.

Just as an example, we'll use the wrist cock. In analyzing the golf swing, I found that the wrist cock at the top of one's backswing, produced great results for a few golfers. However, for the vast majority of golfers, it actually proved to cause MANY inconsistencies.

So it was simply cut out of The Simple Golf Swing. That may sound too simple of a solution, but it really works. You'd be amazed at the consistency that is added by removing this one small move. See, the difference is that golf magazines or videos, want you to spend countless hours of your time correcting this small move. You would have many disappointing rounds if you tried to do that. It's simply not worth it for most golfers.

I agree that you must have a significant wrist cock to compete on the professional tour. However, it has been proven to me many times over that you do not need a wrist cock to hit the ball 250 down the middle of the fairway. You do not need that extra 40-60 yards that professionals need. All you need to break 80 is to be able to hit the ball 220-250 yards down the middle of the fairway. More importantly, you need to be able to do this every time.

Other examples of what you could easily cut out of your swing would be the following:

Lateral (horizontal) movement to achieve the proper weight transfer
All lower body conscious movements. (The Simple Golf Swing will help you to make the correct lower body movements happen automatically, and cut out all the unnecessary actions)
Extended backswing

Those are just a few examples. The list goes on and on, but the point of all this is that "Simple is Better" for the vast number of golfers. I could write forever on this subject, but I won't take up all your time. If you would like to see the simple method I've been talking about please check out The Simple Golf Swing.

David Nevogt writes golf instruction material that helps golfers of all levels reach their full potential and lower their scores. David is the author of The Simple Golf Swing which guarantees to have you shooting 7 strokes lower in only 1 week from today.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Golf Strategy to Lower Your Scores

2007-05-09T17:25:00.000-07:00

By Les Ross

Golf strategy is seldom written about. I don’t know why this is. I guess it sounds like a boring topic compared to the “Add 20 yards to your drive in 2 weeks”…. now you are talking! Let me out there!

Yet, as dull as strategy sounds, it can save you countless strokes, and give you specific direction the next time you are on the range.

Go to any “19th hole” on a golf course and you will hear countless war stories, blow by blow of where golfers messed up. “If only I didn't have that one bad shot, I would have had a great round!” Sound familiar. I call this the “if only” syndrome.

Don’t get fooled into thinking it only happens to high handicap golfers. Golfers at all levels have experienced it… witnessed by the collapse on the final hole of at least two major tournaments in recent years.

Golf strategy is about matching your current playing ability to the difficulty of the course to avoid wasted strokes.

I want to make this statement to further the discussion on strategy. Wasted strokes during a round do not result from your inability, they result from “poor judgment”.

Let me give you an example. You are 245 yards out from the green, in light rough. How would you play the next shot?

Without even thinking, most golfers would pull out a 3 wood, or 5 wood and take a swing at it because of the distance from the hole. Those of you who have a chance of getting on the green from this situation are very few. Even if you have the length, there is a very high chance that you would end up in a trap or some hazard around the green.

For the golfing majority, this distance requires a minimum of 2 strokes. Yet, most golfers would approach this situation exactly the same way, go for distance regardless of their ability. Let’s take a look at the likely outcomes for golfers at different skill levels:

0 – 9 Handicappers:

First scenario: On the green in 1 with the wood – very few have this capability.
Most likely scenario: Short of the green or in a green side bunker with the wood, on in two with a chip shot or bunker shot.

10 – 18 Handicappers:

First scenario: Short of the green with the wood, 40-65 yard short approach shot to the green in two.
Most likely scenario: Short of the green with the wood in rough, missed 40-65 yard approach shot, on in three with a chip or bunker shot.

19 and Above Handicappers:

Most likely scenario: Miss hit 3 wood 50 yards, another 3 wood into light rough or a bunker around the green, miss hit bunker shot or green side chip, on in 4 or possibly 5.

Most golfers, when faced with the 245 yard situation fail to have a strategy. They take each shot as it comes, and deal with the next shot come what may.

Good golfers can get away without a strategy because they can execute a wide range of successful shots from many difficult situations. That takes hours of practice to be at this proficiency level. Not so for the rest, who are lucky if they are able to get in a single hour of practice a week due to the pressures of business or family commitments.

If you are in the latter category, recognize this fact and realize you have limitations with your game. If you cannot handle all situations with 100% confidence, you need to have a strategy that is designed around your strengths. Trying to execute a shot that is unfamiliar to you is “poor judgment”. That’s what destroys your scores.

To get you started in this process, think about the approach shot. This is the most important shot in golf from tee to green.

The preparation for this shot is vital. You need to position the ball in a good fairway location that gives you the best opportunity for a well executed shot. Coming out of rough, or carrying hazards or bunkers to the green are not examples of giving yourself a fighting chance.

Take a look at the following example to get your golfing minds thinking:

1. Decide that you will only use one of two approach shot strategies to every green. either:

Short approach shot of 50 – 80 yards with a pitching wedge.
or:
Medium approach shot of 135 – 145 yards with a 7 iron.

2. Now when you go to the range to practice, your limited practice time is going to be focused on these two clubs only.

3. Set yourself an accuracy goal of 25 feet or less from a target, aiming to be consistent 5 shots in a row with each club. If you miss the target before you get to 5, start the count again.

4. When you are able to execute both these shots consistently within 25 feet, increase the accuracy goal to 20 feet.

Adopting these strategies and armed with the specific skills to match, let’s see what they allow you to do:

1. You have focused your limited practice time to mastering those few clubs that will give you good scoring opportunities, instead of working on the whole bag and achieving very little.

2. If you are able to consistently get on the green using either of these strategies, you eliminate or reduce the need for a good short game.

3. If you can fire at the pin within 25 feet, you reduce your chances of 3 or 4 putting.

4. You can eliminate the pressure of using long difficult clubs that have a high chance failure, since your aim is not to go for distance, but to get the ball on the fairway within acceptable approach shot range, and in a position that opens up the green.

Armed with these strategies, let’s review how our golfers would fare in the 245 yard situation:

0-9 Handicappers:These guys have enough skills to make the green in 2 - No change.
10-18 Handicappers:165-170 yard 6 or 5 iron onto the fairway in an open position for the approach shot. 75-80 yard short approach to 25 feet or less from the pin. Possible strokes saved, 1 with high probability of good execution.
19 and Above Handicapper:120 yard 7 iron out of the light rough onto the fairway. 125 yard 7 iron into the green clear of bunkers. Possible strokes saved, 2-3 with high probability of good execution.

A little bit of logical thinking can go a long way to avoiding those wasted strokes. Develop a strategy and use it to direct your practice sessions and those “if only” conversations in the bar after your round will start to go away.

Think smart, good luck, and good scoring!

Les Ross is the Director of Highlander LLC School of Golf and author of the new ebook Breaking the Distance Barrier. Obtain a copy of the book and read more about his theories on golf strategy and his engineering approach to the golf swing.

HumanGolf.com — Golf for REAL People!

How to Overcome the Fear of Your Bunker Golf Shots

2007-05-09T17:11:00.001-07:00

By Bill Maitland

Most of us, especially if we are beginners, dread landing in a bunker.

Often the first thought is (or second after the swear word thought) is:- Goodness I hope I can get out and put the ball near the hole. I hope I don’t leave the ball in the bunker. I am not very good at bunker shots. I hope I don’ skull the ball over the green into that bunker opposite.

Here are some ideas that will help you develop a mental attitude to attack your problem.

Firstly, go into slow mode and think about what you are going to do.

Set up etc. has been mentioned in another article, so will not be repeated here.

So, just have the mind set that if you hit the ball one or two inches behind the ball, and hit some of this sand onto the green, the ball will explode out with enough force to get it onto the green.

Hitting the sand onto the green will make sure that you follow through and so you do not have to think of this aspect of your swing.

Take the club outside and then hit with an out to in swing.

The second thing to concentrate on is that you are not going to close your club face.

So do not let your right forearm cross over your left.

Do not let your wrists flip the club face closed. You want to be able to balance a glass of water on the open club face after you have completed the swing. OK, you may have swung beyond the horizontal, but you know what I mean.

Bill Maitland is a thinking, inventive golf guru. He thought out and developed simple techniques and tips which enabled him to lower his handicap from 25 to 18, then from 18 to 15, and finally from 15 to 12. He is a passionate golfer, and delights in helping others with their game through his website, Online Golfers Handbook.

HumanGolf: Golf for REAL People!

Zen and the Art of Golf as It Applies to the Golf Swing

2007-04-24T15:53:00.001-07:00

By William Higginbotham

Zen means action with awareness, being completely in the moment. While in this state; people have described it as in a state of timelessness, complete confidence, freedom from anxiety or doubt, complete focus on just one thing. Another way athletes have described it is “being in the Zone.”

A young man had read all the books he could find about Zen.He heard about a great Zen master and requested an appointment with him to ask for teachings. When they were seated, the young man proceeded to tell the master everything he had understood from his reading, saying Zen is about this and on and on at length about his studies of Zen.

After some time the master suggested they have tea. The master began to pour tea into the student’s cup. He poured until the cup was full and kept pouring. The tea was running down the sides of the cup onto the table. The master kept pouring and the tea began to run off the table onto the floor. Finally the student couldn’t contain himself any longer and shouted “Stop! The cup is full-no more will go in!”

The master stopped pouring and said, “Just like this cup, your mind is overflowing with your own opinions and preconceptions. How can you learn anything unless you first empty your cup?”

Many golfers have read volumes about the golf swing. They have so many preconceived notions that they hear little of what the instructor has to say. This does not mean to suspend your intelligence and blindly follow the instruction. Instead, withhold judgement until after you have tried it for a while. Shanrya Roshi, a Zen Master, said “In the beginners mind there are many possibilities; in the expert’s mind there are few.” A beginner’s mind is open, eager to learn. An open mind is a more receptive and fertile mind.

William Higginbotham publishes sports-barn.info where you can find more articles on mental golf techniques and golf vacations.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Pre-Owned Golf Equipment – A Real Option

2007-04-24T15:45:00.001-07:00

By Matt Robinson

If you are on a budget but golf is your sport of choice then you have many options to purchase pre-owned golf equipment. From gently worn items to golf cars that no longer suit the needs of fellow golfers there are countless ways to own high quality low priced golf items. And even if you are not on a set income there are many opportunities to find quality golfing items that are in great condition.

Golf clubs are a very intimate part of every golf game. Purchasing used golf clubs can be tricky but not impossible. If you are patient and have an idea what type of golf clubs suit you best, resale shops are a penny-wise approach to acquiring high quality low cost golf clubs. In looking for left handed clubs or other unique features you might be surprised how easily your search for used clubs will succeed in sound results. Whether you are on a budget or just like to spend your money in a wise manner used golf clubs are the ticket.

Gently worn golf shoes are not an uncommon purchase. Whether found at a yard sale, thrift store or a pre-owned golf accessory store, name brand and low cost shoes are an easy find. Here again patience will be a helpful tool in your search. There is a saying among resale shop patrons, “If you are looking for something specific, odds are you won’t find it until you have bought it new.” An open mind is also a very wonderful thing when shopping resale venues.

Used golf balls can be found by the bag at yard sales or thrift stores. These balls are a smart purchase and serve a great need by allowing the golfer a way to practice his or her golf swing without concern to the loss. Bags of tees can be found for minimal cost also. Ball washers, golf towels, and cleat wrench kits are all likely finds in the resale atmosphere. Head covers and other accessories are common among yard sales and in resale shops.

Golf cars and carts can be purchased used. Manual push or pull carts can easily be a high cost item. Purchasing gently used golf carts is another way to stay geared up with quality equipment while money remains in your pocket. There are websites available that make finding replacement parts for motorized golf cars a breeze. Even purchasing a golf car that needs a small amount of maintenance or possibly a new mechanical part or accessory is not an unusually bad decision.

Purchasing pre-owned articles is a great way to save money and most times you will find decent well taken care of products. In some cases there are safe guards to take into account so that you are not spending hard earned money on an item that will only cause you grief, give you a headache and cost you more money in the long run. More than likely your pre-owned, resold, or gently used equipment; accessories and personal golfing items will bring you years of happy use.

Matt Robinson publishes The Ultimate Guide to Golf that helps people drop 7 to 10 shots per round by using the correct golf equipment.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

The Perfect Golf Vacation in the Caribbean

2007-04-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

By James Penn

Caribbean is the destination to look out for the sun & sand lovers. Home to splendid beaches & palm groves, Caribbean also boasts of numerous enviable golf resorts.

Caribbean golf resorts are fast becoming all-inclusive vacation spots as resort owners revamp and restructure them to suit golfers’ and non-golfers’ needs alike. Hence, like other golf resorts in the United States, most Caribbean golf resorts are endowed with amenities and features that anyone would enjoy.

How to have an ideal vacation at the Caribbean Golf resorts?

If traveling alone, you can plan your vacation on your own, keeping in mind where exactly you want to stay. But if it’s a family vacation, then it’s advisable to rope in a travel agent to plan your trip. Moreover one should also consult his family before deciding upon the resorts one wants to holiday at so that one may find a package that fits everyone’s needs and expectations.

If you want an all-inclusive holiday package then go for the agency that allows customizing a vacation package. Shop around for the best deals to grab the budget-friendly packages. Things that you should consider for a package are that it includes all the essential things such as transportation, hotel accommodations, food, rental fees, and optional activities for you to enjoy. Know also other details like the duration of stay and other expenses in case you choose to extend your vacation. Check your travel papers, money, personal things, and etc. once you reach your destination.

Several golf resorts offer golfing lessons. So while you enjoy a vacation you can also sharpen your golfing skills. But to make your vacation a memorable experience be furnished with all the information necessary for one.

James Penn runs the highly informative Caribbean-Charm site which details how to find vacation packages and the 10 best activities in the Caribbean for families & couples.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

How to Handle Distractions in Golf

2007-04-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

By Wade Pearse

Distractions in golf are a part of the game. From the rattling of change in your playing partners pockets to the shadow cast across your line when you're just about to take the putter back.

It's difficult to recall a round where there wasn't at least something to get distracted by. Well, that is if we let it. What kinds of distractions get you a bit rattled? Are there certain scenarios that seem to take your focus off your shot more than others?

It's useful to make a note of these. This way you can apply some techniques I'll show you and remove the negative impact these "distractions" have on your game. The inner game must be developed to as high a degree as possible.

I want to offer a different perspective. This might fly in the face of conventional wisdom yet it has proven to be an effective shift in mindset. *Just like hockey, where the referees are a part of the game (like it or not), distractions are a fundamental part of the game of golf.*

Distractions disappear first with a change of mindset

Now this might sound strange I realize, but this "reframe" is essential. Once you get it, your overall perception of what influence these distractions will have, will change forever. So first begin to look at them as a part of the game.

By seeing them as simple elements inside the game, not as something that is destroying your concentration or ruining your good rounds, a mental toughness will develop in you. I will show you how things that previously distracted you can actually trigger increased focus in your shot or putt.

You see, by placing too much emphasis on removing distractions and "getting everyone quiet", or making sure things are just perfect before you make your swing, you are inadvertantly increasing the negative influnece these inevitable distractions will have on your performance.

Now let's be clear. There will always be something we can focus on and blame for our poor shot or bad round. It's the easy out. Do you recall the heat Colin Montgomery took years ago in New York when fans wouldn't quiet down for him and he refused to hit until things were quiet?

I don't support or encourage needless crowd noise or heckling, yet the increased attention he brought to himself caused more distraction than what was already present. It ended up becoming a multi-year issue for him.

How can you manage distractions?

I want you to look at the 3 ares of distractions.

1. What you see - This can be the shadow cast by a partner. Someone standing behind you in your peripheral vision (I'll admit this is one of the most challenging to overcome for me). Players moving across your view when standing over your putt. The list is endless of course.

2. What you hear - Poeple talking. (Have you noticed that sometimes whispers seem louder than someone talking at normal volume!) A horn going off in your backswing. Someone coughing just as you take the club away. I'll let you add to this list...

3. What you feel - This is more about your physiology. A little itch above your left eye you feel like scratching right when you are making your putt. Your blood sugar level. Your mood. Your sense of tiredness. Fatigue. Your attention drifting to how fast your heart is racing.

I've merely expressed a few in each area. You are undoubtedly aware of these and countless others. Which area tends to have the most inlfuence on you? There are mental game strategies you can use to reduce the influence of distractions in golf. It begins with building a solid mental game plan.

Wade Pearse is a Peak Performance Coach with a Masters in Results. He spent 7 years researching and applying the most advanced mental game techniques available and identified what actually produces lower scores and increases overall performance. Using these strategies he lowered his own handicap from a 26 to a 3 without any golf lessons or training aids. Visit his Golf Mental Game website.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Oversized Golf Driver or Not?

2007-04-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

By MaryAnne Davies

Do you really need an oversized golf driver? And what material should an oversized golf driver head been made of? When you're searching for this kind of golf clubs there a few things to think of.

Do you need a standard, midsize or oversized golf driver?
What head material?

WHAT SIZE?

Choose a standard head size of about 155 cubic centimeters if you are a good golfer who wants to have more control of the driver and who can also hit the ball well with a small sweetspot.

A midsize driver is a size bigger. The head is about 190 to 200 cubic centimeters and therefore, the sweetspot is also slightly larger. Very suitable if you are a mid handicapper and want to lower your handicap.

Oversized golf driver heads are between 200 and 250 cc. Characteristics: larger sweetspot, so fewer mishits, but harder to control as the weight has become heavier. The biggest golf driver heads have a volume of up to 400 cc, sometimes called oversized Jumbo heads.

WHAT HEAD MATERIAL?

The rule of thumb is: the harder the head material, the more your club forgives you. Although this also depends on the ball's compression or hardness. Aluminium and the different types of titanium alloys are nice to start with. But if you really want to have the top category, then choose golf heads of HST Aluminium, 17-4ph stainless steel or 431 stainless steel. The best are titanium, maraging metal, bi-metal or tungsten.

Titanium is the hardest and lightest head material. Many of the biggest driver heads are made of titanium. Ideal for beginners and high handicappers. But this material is more expensive than steel.

Pay attention: if you see a too cheap set with an oversized golf driver and fairway wood heads of, for example titanium alloy, be careful. The fact is that this head is not made of 100% titanium. It is even possible that there is only a small percentage of titanium in it!

Stainless steel is cheaper en heavier than titanium and titanium alloys. Oversized golf club heads made of stainless steel have smaller sweetspots due to a smaller head. But if you are a mid or low handicap golfer, this is good material for an oversized golf driver.

There are other important checks for selecting standard, midsize or oversized golf drivers. Such as shaft length and flex. You can find them in my Lady Golf Driver Checklist.

MaryAnne Davies is editor of All About Lady Golf Clubs where you can get information on finding the proper lady golf clubs and other golf equipment. Not for females only.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

12 Best Exercises for Golf

2007-04-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

By Craig Ballantyne

Physical conditioning and strength training for golf will increase the distance of your shots, reduce your score, and eliminate the nagging injuries associated with playing "too much" golf. In the era of Tiger Woods, there is no doubt that a golfer is an athlete. It is believed that Tiger makes shots that no one else can because of his physical strength. But while millions upon millions of golfers have emulated Tiger's clothing and equipment, how many have followed his lead and strengthened their body for golf?

Think for a moment about the money you spend on clubs, memberships, friendly wagers, and golf lessons. Are you getting your money's worth? The value of your equipment or golf pro is not being questioned, but the value of the operating unit - your body - needs to be evaluated. First rate equipment will always be limited by second rate conditioning.

The good news is that a small investment (less than the cost of your custom driver) can help you identify the weak links in your physical conditioning and will strengthen your body in preparation for the season. You owe it to yourself to get the most out of your efforts and expensive equipment. A good program can add yards to your drive and should increase the effectiveness of both your golf clubs and golf lessons.

Think about this: If you have played golf for 3 years then you have taken at least 3,840 explosive swings on the course:

40 wood & long-iron shots per round
2 rounds per week
16 weeks in a season
3 seasons
= 3840 explosive swings!

Big deal, you say? Where's the problem? The problem is you have taken almost 4000 muscle contractions in one direction only. This may overdevelop some muscles at the expense of others. Imagine doing 4000 contractions with only your right arm - think there might be differences in muscle size and strength between your left and right arms?

Technically, you have overtrained some muscles for three years, while others have been completely neglected. Compounding your physical imperfections are the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle (as is the case for most golfers) and the individual oddities that you may have been born with (flat feet, limb length differences, poor co-ordination, etc.). Without physical conditioning, it's unlikely that you will be playing at an optimal level. All of these factors contribute to your need for a professional assessment - a small investment in time and money that can make a world of difference in your game. Physical conditioning is no less important than golf lessons.

Step 1 - Get a thorough physical assessment from a qualified professional to identify your muscle weaknesses and flexibility. You may visit a physical therapist, an experienced personal trainer, an athletic therapist, or other movement specialist - ask around for a recommendation. Costs will vary, but the information you will extract from this session will pay for itself at the year-end club championship!

If you need to lose excess body fat, then do it with interval training and nutrition, not with long, slow, boring cardio. That takes too long and does nothing for golf fitness.

It is mandatory that you have an assessment and address any injuries, imbalances, inflexibility, or other concerns before you move on with a strength and conditioning program. The right professional will help you address the cause of injury, rather than just treating the symptoms. Low-back pain is also extremely prevalent in golfers. If you have low-back pain, you must see your doctor and have them refer you to the appropriate professional. Fix your lower back before you start swinging your golf club at speeds of up to 90-100 miles per hour!

You may also wish to discuss pre-game preparation with your movement therapist or Strength and Conditioning Coach. Like sprinting, golf is an explosive sport and demands thorough preparation to prepare their muscles for high-velocity movements. Ask a certified trainer to take you through a warm-up that involves dynamic movements for the upper body and lower body. This is termed "dynamic flexibility" and is designed to increase range of motion and to warm-up the muscles specific to the movement.

Your pre-game preparations should begin immediately following your last round! Take advantage of any opportunity you have to enhance recovery and do some more dynamic flexibility. Does your club have a massage therapist? If so, take advantage! Do you have injuries that require immediate ice and other recovery measures? Take the opportunity to ask for instructions on recovery at your initial assessment.

From the results of your professional assessment, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) will be able to put together a program for you. The program should begin with a restoration of function followed by training to increase strength and eventually will go on to help you develop power.

An area that is going to be a weak spot in most golfers is the strength and endurance of the abdominal and low-back muscles. Some experts suggest that increasing low-back endurance can help reduce back problems. A golfer will also want to build endurance so that they can maintain good posture in their golf stance over an 18-hole match. Endurance in the abs and lower back could have profound effects on your game's consistency.

Just like your golf lessons, the training program that you need is likely to be very different from the program required by your golf partner, your wife, or the guy you are chasing for the club championship. That is why you need to invest in a strength coach to set you up with a training program.

Priority training areas for both advanced and recreational golfers include the arms, shoulder-complex, lower back, abdominals, and obliques. This doesn't mean you should grab the local bodybuilder's routine for arm curls and sit-ups. Your program should be much more targeted than that. Here are some exercises that you should discuss with your strength coach to include in your training program:

12 Best exercises to strengthen the abdominal and lower-back muscles.

Plank
Side Plank
Plank With Arms on Ball
Bird Dog
Cat-Camel
Mountain Climber
Spiderman Climb
Stability Ball Jackknife
Waiter's Bow
Medicine Ball Woodchoppers
Back Extension
Waiter's Bow
Bonus: Standing Pullover

12 Best Exercises that will help you develop total-body strength & mobility:

Squat
Lateral Step-up
Reverse Lunge
Romanian Deadlift
Step-up
Split Squat
Single-Arm DB Row
Wide-Grip Seated Row
Standing Cable Chest Press with Rotation
One-arm Elevated Push-up
Rotator Cuff External Rotation
Y's & T's

Don't use all of these exercises in the same session. This is merely a list of exercises that you and your trainer may want to include in your conditioning program.

With the right program, you can become stronger, more flexible, fitter, and have more power than your opposition. A well-conditioned golfer will also have that "psychological advantage" being at the "top" of their game and has a greater chance of setting personal bests. Good luck!

Craig Ballantyne is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and writes for Men's Health, Men's Fitness, Maximum Fitness, Muscle and Fitness Hers, and Oxygen magazines. His trademarked Turbulence Training fat loss workouts have been featured multiple times in Men’s Fitness and Maximum Fitness magazines, and have helped thousands of men and women around the world lose fat, gain muscle, and get lean in less than 45 minutes three times per week. For more information on the Turbulence Training workouts that will help you burn fat without long, slow cardio sessions or fancy equipment, visit Turbulence Training.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Bad Posture Ruins Good Swings

2007-04-20T08:39:00.000-07:00

By Jeff O'Brien

It’s true. I see this happening all the time with golfers of just about all levels.

Of course you want to feel relaxed of the golf ball as you set up to it… but not so relaxed that you’re all hunched over approaching a fetal position!

You want to be relaxed, but you want to be firm enough to support a position of good posture that will create a proper spine angle at address and throughout your golf swing.

Let’s start from the feet up as we breakdown the individual components of a good golf swing posture.

The Feet: I like to have people’s foot positioning to be just slightly ‘duck footed’. With each of your fee pointed in slight outward position, your hips will be able to rotate more comfortably on the backswing promoting a good turn and by the same token, you hips will able to rotate and clear easier as you come through the shot.

The Stance: The longer the club the wider the stance – about shoulder width for the driver – coming closer together as the clubs shorten.

The Weight Distribution: I like to couch much of my instruction based on neutral positioning. As golfers we are always making adjustments here and there, but you need to know where a ‘neutral point’ is that you can always find your way back to if needed. Distribute your weight evenly with it resting slightly on the insteps of each foot.

Legs: Knees should be slightly flexed in order to maintain your balance throughout your golf swing. Not enough flex results in greater spine angle (in order to sole the club) which in turn results in too steep of a swing angle. Too much flex results in too little of a spine angle and consequently a flat swing.

Hips & Back: Bend from hips. Don’t curl with your abdominals. Bending from hips keeps your back flat and at the correct angle. This creates a consistent axis that your swing will revolve around.

Shoulders: Your right shoulder will be slightly lower than the left because your right hand is lower on the grip. As such your spine will tilt slightly to the right… but keep your back flat.

Head: An extension of the line established by proper back and spine alignment. Don’t tuck your chin. Among other things tucking your chin will get it in the way of your shoulder turn and either cause a loss of power or a movement of your head as your left shoulder tries to turn through.

When you begin learning this posture for the first time or re-addressing your posture after perhaps developing some bad habits, it will feel a bit unnatural. Be patient, and persistent, allow your muscles some time to acclimate and strengthen.

Posture is extremely important to the success and consistency of your golf shots.

Don’t build your swing on a house of cards.

Jeff O`Brien's teaching experience offers insightful golf swing basics to get your golf game on track. Be sure to visit his site, Golf-Ology, for golf lessons, great prices on golf clubs, & much more.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Be Prepared to Win Your Company Golf Day or 18 Holes at Your Club – Play to Your Handicap and You Can Win

2007-04-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

By Kenneth Yearsley

To win at golf start by being prepared: Company golf day or 18 holes at your club, you still need a check list, and to prepared before hand.

Clean your clubs, make sure all the dirt is cleaned out of the grooves on the face of your clubs, they are there for controlling spin.
Clean the grips with warm soap and water to remove any grease.
Select the clubs you need you are only permitted 14 in your bag. Place them all in the bag in the correct order I personally like them to place them clock wise putter first driver last.
Check the balls: We play with Pro-V1; you will have your preference. I like the number 3 on the ball. Then NEVER have any problem in identifying my ball.
Make sure you have tee pegs selection of sizes, Pitch repairer , ball marker, pencil to mark your score card, towel to clean your clubs and the ball.
If you use an electric golf cart make the batteries are charged.
Correct code of dress is required at many clubs, check your clothes are ready, shoes clean and remember most top golf resorts or clubs will not permit steel spikes, so make sure you have rubber grips in good condition, comfortable soft wool socks, correct size glove, if there is a chance of rain take a wet weather glove and umbrella. Golf cap and sun cream if the sun is shining.
Take drinks maybe an energy boost like Red Bull and a mars bar, fruit.
Car has fuel, and you have directions to the course.
Confirm your tee time. Plan to arrive at the course in plenty of time. Double check your tee time and who you’re playing partners are.
Purchase a course planner; note in your mind any special hazards; be aware of wind strength and direction.
Pay your green fees or competition entry fee; check your recorded handicap is correct, be sure you know the competition rules and understand which game you are playing, stable-ford, match play / best ball, stroke play. Study the course score card so you know the degree of difficultly index for each hole. Plan your strategies.

Ok now relax: Golf is a mental game, which requires positive thinking –NO negative thoughts. You also need a combination, of concentration – but no tension in the arms.

Coffee and a bacon roll, sit back in the club house relax for 20 minutes.

If you still have plenty of time go to the range play three balls with each club DO NOT SWING HARD only 80% of your full power, timing, tempo, rhythm, balance. Start with your wedge through to driver, then putting long putts to feel the speed of the greens, place ten balls all round the hole down hill up hill, finish with a few easy putts to see the ball dropping in the hole gives you confidence. Now you are ready to win.

Most important thing to remember is if you are playing with a single handicap player or a player with a lower handicap than you...

DO NOT try to play to their level: PLAY YOUR OWN GAME. You have the advantage of the handicap play to your handicap and you will win.

If the competition is just a few days away the NO time to consider any swing changes to your game. But you can review your mental approach, and course management. Pre-shot routine, visualize the flight and trajectory of the ball, in your minds eye landing on target. GOLF is a MIND GAME you need to be confident and positive on every shot. Trust your swing and above all trust the loft on your club.

Key Objective a nice easy natural swing, timing, tempo, rhythm, balance. Keep eyes on the ball head down left arm in control. Do not force the shot with the strong right arm.

Kenneth Yearsley writes for the hightolow.co.uk golf site where you can find free instruction and top tips.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

It's Not All About Putting

2007-04-20T08:05:00.001-07:00

By Josh Walker

How's your golf? Do you regularly produce stunning shots that leave your golf partners in awe? Or do your double bogies leave them laughing instead? Here are some tips to get your golf game out of the sand traps and onto the green.

Improving Your Drive

When you watch someone execute a perfect long drive, it all looks so easy. And yet it doesn't seem to work quite so well when you do it yourself! This is one area of the game where coaching can be very beneficial. Someone needs to watch your technique closely and pick up any little mistakes you might be making. A whole range of factors contribute to the success of your drive, from a good turn of the shoulders for power, through to keeping your arms loose and relaxed rather than jammed against your body. A few sessions with a good coach should quickly identify any errors and correct them.

Backhand Shots

These shots don't happen very often in golf, but because they're so rare, they really sort out the good players from the amateurs. Basically, you use a backhand shot when a normal stance isn't possible. This might be because the ball is against an obstacle, or the lie of the land is too difficult. Try to get a steady stance, even if you need to be slightly sideways or on a slant. You need to be stable to produce a controlled stroke. Many people find the seven iron is the best choice for backhand shots.

Sand Traps

Playing a ball out of a sand trap can be quite tricky. The sand affects the ball, making it quite a different shot to a normal lob. It's easy to hit the ball hard so that it ends up on the green. To make your shot effective, however, you need to learn how to lob the ball without actually hitting it. To begin, you need to close the face of your club or sand wedge. Dig into the sand beneath the ball with your stroke, so that you're lofting the ball up into the air. You should see some sand flying into the air, following the ball. This helps to stop the ball from traveling too far. As you become more skilled, you should aim to put some backspin on the ball to prevent it from rolling too far on the green.

Remember, becoming a good golfer takes time, practice and patience. While the common strokes such as putting and teeing off are an important part of your game, learning how to execute the less common shots can do a lot to reduce your golf score.

Josh Walker publishes the Golf @ Learn Heaps site where you can find more golf tips.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Is Your Head on a Par With Your Swing?

2007-04-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

NOTE: HumanGolf.com did not write nor edit this article (except maybe for some minor proofing). It's here as a service to you. Go to the site for categorized summaries and other unique golf content not available here.

By James Langmead

How many times have you selected an option on the golf course where you ignore the signs, go for it anyway and are therefore not surprised with a poor result?

Why do you pull the Driver out when you know you’ve ended up in the rough with it all day? Remember when you found the Fairway Bunker, yet you knew one club less would have left you with a little further to the green but playing from the Fairway.

Poor decisions, such as these, will be punishing you every round. In fact, if you are an average handicap golfer you will probably find that, with better Course Management, you could reduce the score on your medal rounds by up to 8 shots.

Good Course Management isn’t just about knowing when to go with the Hybrid off the Tee or when you can risk putting that little bit of extra effort into ripping a Driver down the middle.

Do you have a concise Pre-shot Routine that allows you to analyze the distance, wind direction, hazards, lie, stance and target? Do you review alternate shots, looking for the low risk strategy and comparing it with the potential rewards of the high-roller shot.

Then, are you confident with Club Selection knowing how far you hit each club in different conditions?

Ask yourself these questions and finally consider how much effort do you put into your course management. If, like most golfers, it is a very under-developed aspect of your game, then take some time to change that. Improving your course management will take shots off your scorecard. And if you feel you want some pointers, then call me and we’ll set up a playing lesson which focuses not just on your technique but how you get the ball round the course.

Ask your local PGA Golf Professional for help with course management.

James Langmead is a PGA Qualified Golf Professional and former Callaway Club fitter of the year. Visit his UK site, The Golf Shop Online.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

The Biggest and Most Common Mistakes to Avoid When Playing Golf

2007-04-06T21:24:00.001-07:00

NOTE: HumanGolf.com did not write nor edit this article (except maybe for some minor proofing). It's here as a service to you. Go to the site for categorized summaries and other unique golf content not available here.

By James Hegarty

In the game of golf there are a number of factors that can make or break a golf player. It is important to know what these are as they are what are considered the important aspects of the game of golf itself.

Knowing the golf swing basics and properly combining them with the right exercise will make you a threat in the game of golf. That said the game of golf requires plenty of time, patience, effort, persistence, focus and practice, practice and more practice. So you can only get as good as you practice which is easy as the game is so much fun you invariably want to get better at it.

Notice that there are no two tiger woods in the game of golf. Unlike most people tiger woods plays his own game and improves because he realizes his own mistakes and short coming s and works to improve them. Most people want to play like the other person, rather than focusing on their own techniques and making adjustments to become better as golf players. One common mistake is believing that to attain better and longer drives they have to exaggerate their twist by increasingly turning their backswing which in reality is not true.

To drive longer balls you need the right posture and a fluid swing which guarantees better contact with the ball. Doing otherwise ensures you will not attain the perfect balance of the two and this will result in weak swings.

Missing the putting line is one other mistake in the game. The secret to this is actually visualizing the line between the ball and the hole in your mind and putting just the right amount of acceleration on the ball at the moment of impact which guarantees a straight shot. As a beginner it is important to learn as many basic golf swing tips as possible to gain as many golf ideas as possible and thereby become a superb golf player.

James Hegarty writes for the simple-golf-guidelines.info site.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

The Golf Swing and How to Improve It

2007-04-06T21:18:00.000-07:00

By Jeffrey Ryall

When anyone thinks about the basic elements of the golf swing they think about the grip, stance, and position of the ball and so on. People always think about the physical aspects of the game and that’s only natural as that’s what is in the magazines and what the professionals do in their practice lessons.

But not everyone thinks this way. These people think that the basic components are to do with radius, face, plane and the centering. Focusing on these in a lesson are sometimes as beneficial as the mechanics of the swing.

Face is the direction in which the ball travels when the clubface hits the ball. You need to have the face of the golf club at the same direction when you bring your golf club back as when you hit the ball.

Radius is keeping the same distance from your front shoulder to the ball. This needs to be the same all the way through the shot for you to execute the best strike.

Plane is the angle at which your club strikes the ball. To consistently get good shots this needs to be the same each time you take a shot. Like anything else practice is the key.

Centering. If you want to hit an accurate golf shot you must get this right. Every shot you take has a centre to it . You must keep your back and your head as steady as possible every time you play a shot. If you watch the professionals do it on TV you will notice how steady they keep their head and back through a shot.

You need to be able to do all the basics well to be able to repeat a good shot time after time. To be able to do one basic good and all the rest not so good is not enough.

If you want to be able to repeat a powerful and accurate shot you will need to do all these basic elements well again and again, but as with anything you must put the time in on the practice range to see the improvement in your game. If you practice these as well as the normal basics when people talk about golf, like ball position, grip and stance you will be well on your way to improving your golf handicap and enjoying your game. Golf can be a frustrating game at the best of times but it can also be relaxing and enjoyable when you get it right, happy golfing.

Jeff Ryall runs a fishing website that focuses on information about fishing and fishing related products. You can enjoy reading tips, tricks and techniques about fishing at his site.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

How Would You Like to Have Some Serious "POP" in Your Golf Swing?

2007-04-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

NOTE: HumanGolf.com did not write nor edit this article (except maybe for some minor proofing). It's here as a service to you. Go to the site for categorized summaries and other unique golf content not available here.

By Paul Macleod

My Friends know me as a fairly long hitter.

I swing hard to get maximum clubhead speed.

Because I swing hard, it is sometimes difficult to stay in sequence.

That means that at impact it not exactly perfect. Or better said, it was yet another miss-hit.

A mis-hit means that I just lost a ton of distance. Every time I do this I promise my self I will pay closer attention to my pace and swing sequence so that I can get closer to the sweat spot of the clubhead.

And it will allow me to do the one thing that I know I must in order to get the maximum out of the club I am using at that moment.

If it's the driver, there is really only one thing that I want t accomplish, hit it in the fairway, oh and of course hit it a mile. So it's really two things.

Does one beget another. Or are the two absolutely not compatible?

We should understand that when a PGA/LPA player hits the ball off the tee, with the driver, they are not swinging EASY. Most of them are swinging just under what is as hard as they can. I know it looks easy but it is absolutely not.

Look at Ernie Els. He is so smooth it is like a hot knife through butter. Silky Smooth. The Big Easy. Yet he is one of the longest hitters on the tour. MMMM !

Makes no sense does it.

So what's the gig? How do they do it?

Well the answer is not quite as easy as I may have inferred. But the actual move is easy. It's what goes just before the actual move that may create some issues.

I am going to tell you where the power source is. But first a couple of warnings so that you will understand the source.

You must have done many things correct before the moment of power. Good Grip, good setup!

You must have established the two angles and kept them in tact through and into the backswing.( see previous article on angles) Your first move on your downswing must not be over the top. It should be a slight bump to the left and dropping of the right elbow to the right side.

And as you do this remember to keep your head and your shoulders back. This will help keep you on plane. The club should be on plane and on the correct inside path toward the ball. This will happen if you have made the correct first move.

I am about to tell you the move. But first listen up ! This will be impossible to do if you do not have a very good grip. If you have a weak grip, I strongly suggest that you make it at the very least neutral. But better if your left hand were more on the top of the grip of the club and your right hand matches the left. So that they work together.

There is no way, and not enough words in our language for me to express how important a good grip is to you and your golf swing. A lot of people have told me to get over it. But I have never seen a good player with a bad grip. If your left hand is on the club in a weak position there is no way you can create the correct angles that are so important. It just cannot be done.

No angles, no leverage. No leverage no power.

So if you have a poor grip and if you insist on keeping a poor grip for what ever reason, then rest assured, anything that you may learn here will not work for you.

OK.. sorry that I yelled at you.

Are you ready for the power move?

As I mentioned already you will have had to make the previous moves in your golf swing as good as you can before this will work.

Now go to a door in your home... are you there? Grab the door knob with your left hand and turn it to the left. It should have looked like this. You grab the knob and you see the back of your left hand, you turn it to the left and the back of your left hand moves left, you continue to turn and the back of your left hand turns down or under. Do this four or five times and watch the action of your left hand.

Now as you swing the club toward impact turn you left hand exactly the same way. So that it turns down and under. Do it fast.

Practice this with little mini swings. Make sure your path is good, from the inside. And just take small swings and turn the left hand down and under at impact. Minimize your movement. No swaying and all that stuff. And make sure you finish the swing, let the arms get fully through the impact position. Don't "cut it off".

Just little swings to get used to the feelings.

When you do this right, there will be an effortless release of power that will shock you. No need to jump all over it. Just practice it for a while.

It is the one thing that you can do right now to get a tremendous power increase.

Now get a grip.

Paul Macleod publishes the ebooksbestbuy.com site.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Common Mistakes to Avoid – Improve Your Game Guaranteed!

2007-04-06T17:01:00.001-07:00

NOTE: HumanGolf.com did not write nor edit this article (except maybe for some minor proofing). It's here as a service to you. Go to the site for categorized summaries and other unique golf content not available here.

By James Hegarty

How many golf games have you played and sent the ball into the woods. While searching through those woods to find the ball it must cross your mind about a way to improve your game. The key to this is really quite simple. The key is finding the right golf swing instructions which will help you learn the right skills you need to develop a great swing and better shots.

If you play the game regularly you must have heard the regular complaint from other golf players about spending so much money getting golf swing lessons and still hitting lousy shots and having to rifle through the woods looking for the golf ball. The problem could be from either the golf player or the golf instructor. It boils down to either the player not understanding the instructions from the instructor or the instructor not giving the right instructions tailored to the strengths and weaknesses of the player.

Every player is unique in playing styles, posture, body positioning and sophistication in making calculations in regards to shots. A good golf instructor should not try to reinvent the player but use his or her strengths and weaknesses to improve their game. With that said the player should try to incorporate the new lessons learned into their game because the instructions come from years of coaching other golfers in improving their golf swing.

Watching other golfers swing a golf club cannot be substituted for good golf lessons. Just picking up a golf set and hoping to play a good game by watching others will simply lead to a lot of frustration. It will be counter productive because learning such golf tricks which later become ingrained into their golf game makes it even harder to change and learn by following good golf swing instructions.

For beginners it is good to realize that the secret to improving their game quickly is by following the right golf swing instructions because with a beginner there are no bad ingrained habits to break and unlearn.

The payoff is the thrill of watching a shot as it ascends into the air soars down the fairway coming to rest close to three hundred yards like a pro which is what a few good golf swing instruction lessons can result in.

James Hegarty writes for the simple-golf-guidelines.info site.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Secrets to Attaining the Perfect Golf Swing Quickly

2007-04-06T16:45:00.001-07:00

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By James Hegarty

There is no doubt that the most sought after thing in the game of golf is getting that elusive perfect golf swing. The question is can anyone attain the perfect golf swing and what are the methods one has to master to attain it. The truth is that there are no fixed dynamics to achieving the perfect golf swing as everyone is different and the perfect golf swing for an individual will vary from that person to the next. However there are a few givens that when applied will enhance individual players ability to dramatically improve their golf game and be on the way to getting the perfect swing.

There is little doubt that a professional golf swing is at the very heart and central to the golf game. It is simply impossible to play a good game of golf if one is not consistent with at least a good golf swing. One of the necessary activities to undertake to achieve help in this regards is implementing one of the golf specific exercises like the golf swing plane.

Basically the golf swing plane is a representation of the desired path your golf club should ideally travel during a swing. To be successful at this it is important to understand that the ability to keep the ball on a consistent plane and rotate the body is what separates the lower handicapper and the higher handicapper. One simple way to analyze the swing plane is having someone film you. Another way is having laser lights fitted to the end of your club handle or alternatively use a swing trainer.

It is good to remember that it requires an optimum strength level to produce a swing speed that is enough to achieve the desired ball distances. To increase power and golf swing speed can be effectively done with a golf training club

The importance of exercise cannot and should not be overlooked when it comes to golf. It is a proven and acceptable fact that the muscles which are used in the golf swing when not exercised and conditioned regularly with the correct exercises will invariably be unresponsive to the right golfing techniques. The failure of many golfers to implement the proper exercise to enhance their fitness has led to many nagging injuries among golfers further impeding their ability to perform at peak levels. Exercising the right muscles helps a golfer play a better game while eliminating any injuries and pain.

Any golfer implementing these three fundamentals will experience significant improvements in their game. Those who expect some secrets to having a great game really need to look no further than the three fundamentals of proper exercise, swing plane and swing speed. Paying attention to these three fundamentals will put you on the path to a greater and more enjoyable game.

James Hegarty writes for the simple-golf-guidelines.info site.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

The 3-Foot Rule and the Inside Out Technique to Improve Your Golf Swing

2007-04-06T16:27:00.000-07:00

NOTE: HumanGolf.com did not write nor edit this article (except maybe for some minor proofing). It's here as a service to you. Go to the site for categorized summaries and other unique golf content not available here.

By James Hegarty

Probably the toughest part, of the game of golf is mastering the golf swing. Even more controlling the ball as it is smacked off the tee can be much harder. Even after years of experiments and much practice there has been no consistent method developed for driving a straight long ball. To help correct this a golfer should master the inside out golf swing as it will help reduce the number of tee shots careening to the right.

The inside out shot simply involves the first 3 feet of the swing and the take away. The inside out golf swing does not reference swinging the golf club in the direction of your ankle and then at the very last minute to the ball.

A lot of weekend golfers usually go to the golf driving range with the aim of trying to hit the ball of far as they possibly can with the aim of trying to outdrive other golf players. The best use of their time is to practice the inside out golf swing, which helps in reducing their slice.

Most new golfers will address the ball to begin the golf take away, in general most pull back on the club but instead of doing so with both arms do this with their left arm. The result of this is that it causes the club to drift slightly inside while their hands remain on the front.

The best way of using the inside out golf swing technique is to make sure your hands do not rest on the clubs front during the backswing while trying to make sure as much as possible that it does not occur when attempting a cut shot or a fade. The beauty of this technique is that it allows the golf club to travel on the same plane going up as it did coming down bringing the clubs face square on impact with the ball.

The good news is that the inside out golf swing works with practically any golf club but particularly well with short irons, because it brings the golfer close to the pin helping to eliminate unwanted forty foot puts through multiple modulations and gullies on the green which you might find you are not able to read.

James Hegarty writes for the simple-golf-guidelines.info site.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

3 Shots Off Your Score

2007-04-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

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By James Langmead

You hit more shots with the Putter than with any other club and for most of us a 10% improvement in performance is going to take 3 or 4 shots off our score. Seems sensible to start here then, if we are going to win more matches. So let me give you three quick drills that will: make sure your putting stroke is tuned, improve your distance control and increase your confidence.

You want to have your hands, arms and shoulders working together with the club face hitting the ball perfectly squarely in the center. That will ensure both accuracy (hitting it straight) and better distance control (consistently striking the ball off the sweet spot).

Set up two clubs perfectly parallel on the grass. Swing the putter low to the ground between the two clubs.

You are trying to ensure that you don’t hit the clubs with the putter (or the ball!). Incidentally this will also improve rhythm.

For most amateurs this should be a drill that should be completed before the start of every round. Good technique will help with the pressure putts.

Most of us create three putts through poor distance control on our first putt (rather than poor accuracy or poor reads). So let’s improve that with the following drill:

Using Tee Pegs set up imaginary distance lines starting at 15 feet every 5 feet. I would setup lines at 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 feet (if you have enough room). Now take 15 balls. Try and hit the first three so they land between the 15 and 20 feet lines. Then the next three between the 20 and 25 feet lines and so on until you are trying to get the last three golf balls between the 35 and 40 feet lines.

Score 3 points for every ball that finishes in the target zone, 1 point if it goes beyond and no points if it is short. From your 15 golf balls you are looking to score 37 points minimum.

Finally we all need to build confidence on the Putting Green. To achieve that we need to be holing putts and that is very difficult from 6 feet out.

Spend your time, when you have a golf hole to aim at, hitting the 3 through 5 foot putts, on a flat surface. Make sure your technique and rhythm is right. Then concentrate on repeating that, and LISTENING to the ball drop. That’s right. Keep your eyes and head perfectly still and down and you will enjoy listening to the ball hitting the bottom of the cup.

Visit your local Foremost Golf PGA Professional for expert advice on all aspects of golf.

James Langmead is a PGA Qualified Golf Professional and former Callaway Club fitter of the year. Visit his UK site, The Golf Shop Online.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Keeping an Eye on Your Groove

2007-04-06T15:34:00.000-07:00

NOTE: HumanGolf.com did not write nor edit this article (except maybe for some minor proofing). It's here as a service to you. Go to the site for categorized summaries and other unique golf content not available here.

By James Langmead

One of the least heralded innovations, which has had the biggest impact on the way that the game is played,is the design of your grooves.

Ping introduced ‘U’ grooves that increased the amount of back spin imparted on the golf ball, even from the rough.

That little innovation has resulted in the emergence of ‘bombers & gougers’, who can attack the pin from the rough (gouge) after a wild shot from the tee (bomb).

The USGA equipment rules team is now attempting to close down the way that the grooves are designed an introducing restrictions (as they have done with head sizes, COR and MOI).

There is no question that if you are serious about your golf game and are looking for a high quality forged Iron set then you are going to be looking at Titleist Irons.

What I like about the Tileist 755 Irons is that they bring all the traditional quality of Titleist precision together with modern design. A thinner face allows a deeper cavity to be constructed and the 10 grams saved is used to position weight to the perimeter and to optimise the CoG positioning. That will mean a club that is much easier to use for all golfers up to a 16 handicap.

Look at the hosels and you will see how weight is redistributed lower on the long irons (to make it easier for you to get the ball airborne) and slightly higher on the shorter irons (offering you more control).

Along with all these benefits the Titleist 755 Irons come with all the expected qualities, especially feel. Notice the Vibration Dampening Chip on the rear of the club to reduce unwanted feedback and to strengthen the face. Great clubs, but if you are considering a new set of Irons talk to me and I can translate the marketing noise into a good description of how a particular club will help your golf game.

Visit your local Foremost Golf PGA Professional for expert advice on all aspects of golf.

James Langemead is a PGA Qualified Golf Professional and former Callaway Club fitter of the year. Visit his UK site, The Golf Shop Online.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!

Controlling Distance from a Bunker

2007-04-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

NOTE: HumanGolf.com did not write nor edit this article (except maybe for some minor proofing). It's here as a service to you. Go to the site for categorized summaries and other unique golf content not available here.

By Jack Moorehouse

Distance control from a bunker isn’t easy to learn. In fact, it’s one of the hardest things in golf to master. Golf instruction and reading golf tips help, but it takes practice to learn how to hit it close to the pin from different bunkers. But even a modest improvement here cuts strokes from your scores and lowers golf handicaps.

The perfect set-up for right-handed players is to aim left of the target, generating a slight fade. To produce it, adopt an open stance and an open clubface at address, and then swing along your bodyline. The ball will fly right of where your body and feet are pointing. I have players practice this set up a few times during my golf lessons before moving on to hitting bunker shots from various distances. Below I’ll go through some of the more common scenarios where you need to get it up and down to lower your golf scores.

Greenside Bunkers

The length of your backswing with a greenside bunker shot isn’t nearly as important as the follow-through, as I’ve discussed in my golf tips. The longer the shot, the longer your follow-through needs to be. For short shots, the club should finish knee high. For medium-length shots, the club should finish chest high. For long shots, the club should finish well above your chest.

The key to making a good bunker greenside shot is acceleration. You need to accelerate through the shot until the club passes though the sand. Don’t stop at impact, like some players do in my golf lessons. Hit through it. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself hitting from the bunker again.

Bunkers with Tight Pins

Greenside bunkers with tight pins are really tough shots, especially if the sand is soft and fluffy. You can’t ground your club in the bunker, as I’ve mentioned in my golf tips, but you can feel the sand with your shoes when you step in the bunker. If it’s fluffy, you may need to blast out of the bunker. Use a sand wedge, open the face, and take a full swing hitting the sand about four inches behind the ball. The open face forces the ball to fly higher and land softer.

If the ball is plugged, don’t open the clubface. Close it. Then cock your wrists quickly and take a steep downswing. Try to hit the sand just behind the ball. That will unplug it and throw it out of the bunker.

Longer Bunkers

An alternative to hitting the traditional bunker shot is the bump and run. The theory is that you improve your distance control the sooner you get the ball out of the sand and onto the ground and rolling toward the target. However, you need to have the right situation— a low-lipped bunker, some room to roll the ball, and an unplugged lie—to hit the bump and run from the sand.

Take a 6 or 7 iron, instead of a sand wedge, and address the ball with a slightly open stance. The shaft and your body should be leaning forward. Position you hands away from your body so that the shaft is more vertical than normally. Without grounding the club, take it back slowly and accelerate through the ball. Hit down on the ball. It comes out low and runs as soon as it hits the ground. See my golf tips for more info on making this shot.

Fairway Bunker Shots

The 80- to 100-yard bunker shot is the hardest of all. At least that’s what some players who’ve taken my golf lessons think. Ideally, you want to have the ball fly high and land softly. Instead of a sand wedge or a 6 iron, try an 8 iron but grip the club more in your fingers than normally. And make sure the heel of the club is higher than the toe at address and that the face is open. Aim slightly left of your target, stand a little taller, and hit the ball before the sand.

The key to the fairway bunker shot is the body turn. The tendency with this shot is using your arms and hands only. You need a full body turn to get the distance you want from this shot. Therefore, you need to get your body in the act. Keep your lower body stationary and turn your chest away from the target, so it stays in front of the club.

Additional Golf Tips on Bunker Shots

For uphill bunker shots, use a less lofted club and swing normally. For downhill shots, adjust your shoulders to the angle of the slope and swing down the slope. If you want to stop the ball when it lands, remember this: The faster you swing the club and the closer the clubhead comes to the ball, the more spin you put on the ball.

Tour players get up and down from the sand more than 60 percent of the time. If you’re can do it only half that number, you’ll eliminate unnecessary strokes and lower your golf handicap.

Jack Moorehouse is the author of the best-selling book How to Break 80 and Shoot Like the Pros. He is NOT a golf pro, rather a working man that has helped thousands of golfers from all seven continents lower their handicaps immediately.

HumanGolf.com: Golf for REAL People!