As the 2005 US Open began in Pinehurst, NC, the name Michael Campbell wasn’t being touted as likely to finish first. Michael had attempted in four previous Opens and had not survived the weekend. Fortunately his final round of 1 under 69 gave him the two stroke lead he needed to earn a victory over the top ranked player in the world, Tiger Woods. How did Michael keep his composure with Woods making a charge on the back nine? Was it sheer confidence? Skill? Just what was the winning combination for Campbell?
Many traits and abilities go into the makings of a Major champion. Not the least of which is fitness and conditioning for their task at hand. While professional golfers are the envy of many, these people must adhere to a regimen few are willing to take on. As we watch the rounds, it all looks so easy. Yet, behind the scenes…
Today’s professional golfer, more than ever before, must concentrate on something other than simply technique and skill. The new golf technologies claim much of the increased distance, control and power now available to golfers. New technology is really only a small portion of the emerging changes in play.
Almost every professional golfer today spends more time conditioning their body for golf than ever before. They realize the competition is tough and that in order to maintain consistently controlled and powerful golf swings their body must be strengthened and flexible. Their time is well spent on functional strength and flexibility conditioning for the body. The goal of functional exercises for golf is to mimic the actual demands on the body of the golf swing. This approach helps accomplish two things at once 1) improve the targeted muscle group’s strength and flexibility and 2) condition the neuromuscular system with movements exactly like those required on the course.
All golfers would do well to learn from the pros in the area of fitness and conditioning. The golf swing is a complex movement, requiring much from the body. Regularly performing strength and conditioning exercises can produce a more flexible and stronger musculoskeletal system. As higher levels of fitness are accomplished, you can generate more power with less effort. This translates to a smoother swing with greater club head speed, thus lower scores result. Fitness for golf is rapidly becoming the norm; start today to ensure many years of rewarding play on the course.
Come to http://ping.fm/E9grB to find out more about improving your golf !
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Saturday, June 5, 2010
What to Look for In Hybrid Golf Clubs
In some parts of the world, the golf season is just beginning for the year. Golf can be a huge part of some people's lives as a way to socialize with people, relax and do business deals. A lot of people even make it a way of live and live right on a golf course and at the same time they will do whatever they can do to make their golf game the best they can. Hybrid golf clubs are one of the things that can be used to improve your game.
Hybird golf clubs are still relatively new in the sport because we all know that the regular ones are usually made of iron or wood. Because they haven't been on the market for as long as other types of clubs, there can be some confusion on how to pick out the right ones for your game and to make improvements to your swing. The main problem with this is that if you pick the wrong ones you will be out some money and even worse -- it could hurt your game too!
One of the main things that you have to do is a lot of reading about different brands available because there are many different qualities to choose from. The best place to get your research done is the internet, local pro shop, magazines and your golfing buddies. The last thing that you want to do is make a hasty decision and spend your money on something that is going to end up not working for you.
You will also want to make sure that when you make your purchase, you buy them from a golf shop with a good reputation. In addition, make sure that the brand of the clubs that you buy are a good solid brand as well. Brands that have been in the market for a long time will have worked out all the issues with the clubs over time. Another thing that is fairly important to look at is the shape of the heads on the clubs. Pick ones that you are used to using and you should be on the right track.
Hybrid golf clubs are quickly becoming a big trend in the golfing industry today and becoming the popular choice for both amateurs and pros. Next time you are out on the course, try a set! It may improve your game.
Come to http://ping.fm/LVEOl to see more of the golfing tips!
Hybird golf clubs are still relatively new in the sport because we all know that the regular ones are usually made of iron or wood. Because they haven't been on the market for as long as other types of clubs, there can be some confusion on how to pick out the right ones for your game and to make improvements to your swing. The main problem with this is that if you pick the wrong ones you will be out some money and even worse -- it could hurt your game too!
One of the main things that you have to do is a lot of reading about different brands available because there are many different qualities to choose from. The best place to get your research done is the internet, local pro shop, magazines and your golfing buddies. The last thing that you want to do is make a hasty decision and spend your money on something that is going to end up not working for you.
You will also want to make sure that when you make your purchase, you buy them from a golf shop with a good reputation. In addition, make sure that the brand of the clubs that you buy are a good solid brand as well. Brands that have been in the market for a long time will have worked out all the issues with the clubs over time. Another thing that is fairly important to look at is the shape of the heads on the clubs. Pick ones that you are used to using and you should be on the right track.
Hybrid golf clubs are quickly becoming a big trend in the golfing industry today and becoming the popular choice for both amateurs and pros. Next time you are out on the course, try a set! It may improve your game.
Come to http://ping.fm/LVEOl to see more of the golfing tips!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Start Out with the Right Golf Clubs for a Great Game
Whether you know your course's greens like the back of your hand, or you're just starting out playing golf, the right golf clubs are essential to maximize both your effectiveness and your enjoyment of the game. Contrary to what many newcomers believe, though, buying a good set of clubs doesn't have to break the bank. Golf clubs may be an investment, but buying them doesn't have to be a daunting prospect. Here are some tips to guide you.
Start with the Basics
If you're new to golf, you don't nee a full set of 14 golf clubs. In fact, you can make do with seven clubs: three woods, two irons, a wedge, and a putter. Some instructors advise beginners to forego a driver altogether, and instead use a 3-wood to hit off the tee. A 3 wood, combined with a 7 wood and 9 wood, are enough to get you started. A 5 iron and a 7 iron are mid irons that will help you in your approach. When it comes to wedges, you'll probably want to go with a sand wedge that will help prevent you from digging in when you're hitting from the bunker. You'll also, of course, need a putter that will help you put the ball into the hole.
Pre-Owned Golf Clubs
If you know you're going to stick with the game, but aren't ready to make an enormous investment in clubs, you should seriously consider buying used golf clubs. Pre-owned golf clubs can give you the full set you need to refine your game, and are an affordable alternative to a new set of clubs. For example, Calloway offers certified, pre-owned clubs. The certification ensures the clubs' authenticity and that the clubs have passed a rigorous inspection of the heads, shafts, and grips, as well as verification of the technical specifications of the clubs. Typically, certified clubs come with a limited warranty.
Making the Leap
Once you're committed to golf and are seriously working on refining your game, you're ready to invest in a new set of golf clubs. You have several options, ranging from ready-made sets by brand names like TaylorMade and Calloway to custom made clubs that will match your specific game. It's worth your while to research which brand of clubs will work best for you, and make sure that you select the right combination of woods, irons, wedges, and putters that will enable you to play your best game.
More than Clubs
Needless to say, a great round of golf involves more than clubs. You also need the right golf shoes and golf accessories to play your best. Thanks to the Internet, you no longer need to rely on your course's pro shop or big box sporting goods stores to find everything from golf shoes to golf apparel. It's even a straightforward process to buy golf clubs online. Best of all, you can buy all of the equipment you need at a fraction of retail prices.
With spring just around the corner, it's time to invest in the golf clubs and golf accessories that suit your level of play and commitment to the sport.
Come to http://ping.fm/FGddV to find out more!
Start with the Basics
If you're new to golf, you don't nee a full set of 14 golf clubs. In fact, you can make do with seven clubs: three woods, two irons, a wedge, and a putter. Some instructors advise beginners to forego a driver altogether, and instead use a 3-wood to hit off the tee. A 3 wood, combined with a 7 wood and 9 wood, are enough to get you started. A 5 iron and a 7 iron are mid irons that will help you in your approach. When it comes to wedges, you'll probably want to go with a sand wedge that will help prevent you from digging in when you're hitting from the bunker. You'll also, of course, need a putter that will help you put the ball into the hole.
Pre-Owned Golf Clubs
If you know you're going to stick with the game, but aren't ready to make an enormous investment in clubs, you should seriously consider buying used golf clubs. Pre-owned golf clubs can give you the full set you need to refine your game, and are an affordable alternative to a new set of clubs. For example, Calloway offers certified, pre-owned clubs. The certification ensures the clubs' authenticity and that the clubs have passed a rigorous inspection of the heads, shafts, and grips, as well as verification of the technical specifications of the clubs. Typically, certified clubs come with a limited warranty.
Making the Leap
Once you're committed to golf and are seriously working on refining your game, you're ready to invest in a new set of golf clubs. You have several options, ranging from ready-made sets by brand names like TaylorMade and Calloway to custom made clubs that will match your specific game. It's worth your while to research which brand of clubs will work best for you, and make sure that you select the right combination of woods, irons, wedges, and putters that will enable you to play your best game.
More than Clubs
Needless to say, a great round of golf involves more than clubs. You also need the right golf shoes and golf accessories to play your best. Thanks to the Internet, you no longer need to rely on your course's pro shop or big box sporting goods stores to find everything from golf shoes to golf apparel. It's even a straightforward process to buy golf clubs online. Best of all, you can buy all of the equipment you need at a fraction of retail prices.
With spring just around the corner, it's time to invest in the golf clubs and golf accessories that suit your level of play and commitment to the sport.
Come to http://ping.fm/FGddV to find out more!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
5 Ways To Enjoy Golf More.
We all love the game of golf, but some times it is just as they say, a good walk spoiled. Here are a few ways to enjoy golf more.
1 Don't play the blue tees.
Unless you are at least a 10 handicap or lower, why bother making the golf course even harder than it has to be. If you are shooting in the 90's or triple digits, it makes no sense making a conscious decision to making the course more difficult. Play the white tees and take the extra level of anxiety out of the equation.
2 Improve your lie
When you are having a recreational round of golf, there is no way you should be playing the strict rules of golf. The average round of golf would be at least 6 hours at courses all over the world. Golfers would be returning to the tees all day after hitting there first ball out bounds, or searching for every lost ball for 5 minutes. So if we are bending the rules to save time, why not bend them to improve your lie, something you can actually benefit from. Play winter rules all the time.
3. Play different games
Instead playing the same match with your buddies, compete in other categories other than score. Some examples would be:
Most fairways hit
Least amount of 3 putts
Most 1 putts
4 If it is your honor, take it.
You just birdie the hardest (or easiest) hole on the golf course, it's your tee, you earned it, take it. Challenge yourself to get another one, you will be surprised how often you can have two birdies in a row if you are actually trying to get two birdies in a row.
5 Lower your expectations.
If you are a average golfer you play golf twice per week if you're lucky, on top of that, you don't practice as much as you should.. You can't honestly think that your game is not exactly what it should be. Just enjoy the game itself, don't be so hard on yourself when you're not playing well. Even the pros have bad days.
All-Golf
1 Don't play the blue tees.
Unless you are at least a 10 handicap or lower, why bother making the golf course even harder than it has to be. If you are shooting in the 90's or triple digits, it makes no sense making a conscious decision to making the course more difficult. Play the white tees and take the extra level of anxiety out of the equation.
2 Improve your lie
When you are having a recreational round of golf, there is no way you should be playing the strict rules of golf. The average round of golf would be at least 6 hours at courses all over the world. Golfers would be returning to the tees all day after hitting there first ball out bounds, or searching for every lost ball for 5 minutes. So if we are bending the rules to save time, why not bend them to improve your lie, something you can actually benefit from. Play winter rules all the time.
3. Play different games
Instead playing the same match with your buddies, compete in other categories other than score. Some examples would be:
Most fairways hit
Least amount of 3 putts
Most 1 putts
4 If it is your honor, take it.
You just birdie the hardest (or easiest) hole on the golf course, it's your tee, you earned it, take it. Challenge yourself to get another one, you will be surprised how often you can have two birdies in a row if you are actually trying to get two birdies in a row.
5 Lower your expectations.
If you are a average golfer you play golf twice per week if you're lucky, on top of that, you don't practice as much as you should.. You can't honestly think that your game is not exactly what it should be. Just enjoy the game itself, don't be so hard on yourself when you're not playing well. Even the pros have bad days.
All-Golf
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
National Golf Tournaments for Competitive Recreational Golfers
Whether you're an avid novice or a seasoned player, the chances are good that you've wished for the opportunity to compete in a golf tournament. It's great to watch the PGA Tour on television, but nothing is more satisfying than entering and playing in golf competitions yourself. Unfortunately, while golf events are routinely held at private courses and country clubs, most golfers who play on public courses don't get the opportunity to participate. Even if they do, they don't have the chance to compete against golfers from around the nation.
It shouldn't come as a surprise, then, that the Internet is filling the gap and making it possible for golfers of all ability levels to compete on a national level. After all, community building has become a cornerstone of Web 2.0 in arenas as diverse as politics, music, and gardening - why not golf?
Indeed, the latest trend in the world of golf is membership in an online competitive golf association. The concept's beauty lies both in its simplicity and its utter inclusiveness. Unlike traditional men's and women's golf tournaments, which require organization, registration, and travel, online competitive golf enables golfers to play on any United States Golf Association public rated golf course. Best of all, you can play anytime and with anyone - whether or not they are members of the association.
Typically, an online association will hold monthly events, with each event consisting of four rounds. This doesn't mean that you necessarily have to play four rounds of golf during a single month; instead, you can post your score once you've completed four rounds of play. Your score will count for the month it's entered online, not the month it's played.
Usually, there are seven different types of tournaments held. First, there are the Men's Individual and Women's Individual tournaments, in which only the total strokes are counted. Next, there are the Men's Individual with Handicap and Women's Individual with Handicap, which consists of the total number of strokes minus the golfer's handicap. Then, there are the Two-Person Best Ball and Coed Best Ball tournaments, in which each player plays his or her own ball, but for each hole the lowest score of the team counts toward the total. If, for example, the first player gets five strokes on a hole and the second player gets four strokes on a hole, the second player's strokes count for that hole. Finally, to build on the enthusiasm that many families feel for golf, online associations often include a Parent-Son/Daughter Best Ball tournament.
The competition gets fierce because golfers' scores are posted online to the electronic scoreboard. Typically, the winners of each month's qualifier and the best players in each tournament are invited to compete at a championship to benefit a charitable organization.
While some might ask what would prevent a member from posting fake scores, golfers know that the game is based on principles of integrity and civility. Honest play and good sportsmanship are the bedrock of the game of golf, so members are trusted to post accurate scores.
Most of all, though, those who play golf are embracing the opportunity to compete in national golf tournaments and clambering to see their names at the top of the leaderboard!
Come to http://ping.fm/xoAaH to check it out more!
It shouldn't come as a surprise, then, that the Internet is filling the gap and making it possible for golfers of all ability levels to compete on a national level. After all, community building has become a cornerstone of Web 2.0 in arenas as diverse as politics, music, and gardening - why not golf?
Indeed, the latest trend in the world of golf is membership in an online competitive golf association. The concept's beauty lies both in its simplicity and its utter inclusiveness. Unlike traditional men's and women's golf tournaments, which require organization, registration, and travel, online competitive golf enables golfers to play on any United States Golf Association public rated golf course. Best of all, you can play anytime and with anyone - whether or not they are members of the association.
Typically, an online association will hold monthly events, with each event consisting of four rounds. This doesn't mean that you necessarily have to play four rounds of golf during a single month; instead, you can post your score once you've completed four rounds of play. Your score will count for the month it's entered online, not the month it's played.
Usually, there are seven different types of tournaments held. First, there are the Men's Individual and Women's Individual tournaments, in which only the total strokes are counted. Next, there are the Men's Individual with Handicap and Women's Individual with Handicap, which consists of the total number of strokes minus the golfer's handicap. Then, there are the Two-Person Best Ball and Coed Best Ball tournaments, in which each player plays his or her own ball, but for each hole the lowest score of the team counts toward the total. If, for example, the first player gets five strokes on a hole and the second player gets four strokes on a hole, the second player's strokes count for that hole. Finally, to build on the enthusiasm that many families feel for golf, online associations often include a Parent-Son/Daughter Best Ball tournament.
The competition gets fierce because golfers' scores are posted online to the electronic scoreboard. Typically, the winners of each month's qualifier and the best players in each tournament are invited to compete at a championship to benefit a charitable organization.
While some might ask what would prevent a member from posting fake scores, golfers know that the game is based on principles of integrity and civility. Honest play and good sportsmanship are the bedrock of the game of golf, so members are trusted to post accurate scores.
Most of all, though, those who play golf are embracing the opportunity to compete in national golf tournaments and clambering to see their names at the top of the leaderboard!
Come to http://ping.fm/xoAaH to check it out more!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
4 Important Factors That Affect Your Golf Swing
In the game of golf, no two people ever have the same golf swing. Each person has their own individual body with its own strengths, flexiblity and range of motion. The way one person swings a golf club may not work for another person, even if they are near in body types. Every golfer has to find the playing style that fits them to help them produce the results that they want. Players that know what is going to happen to the ball when they hit it, and what factors affect that moment of impact can effectively use their body to create the consistent powerful golf swing that they desire.
One thing that can help all golfers make immediate and positive improvements on their game is an understanding of the factors that affect the golf ball at the moment of impact by the golf club. Knowing what these factors are and how they affect the ball will enable you to understand what happens at the moment of impact and interpret the golf balls flight. When you understand what occurs and why, you can then make small adjustments to your swing and then see the effects on the next shot. The flight of the golf ball will tell you whether you were correct in your personal assessment and you made a good change towards a better golf swing. If you made a change that made the shot worse than before, all you should have to do is undo that change to your swing.
The moment of impact (ideally the golf club sweet spot hitting the ball) is a combination of four factors that will ultimately determine what direction and how far the ball will travel. The golf ball will react to these factors regardless of how they occur. The first important factor that affects your golf swing is the angle of the clubface at the moment of impacting the ball. The position of the clubface at the moment of impact is the most important factor influencing the initial direction and the spin of the ball. The clubface must point in the direction of the target you’ve chosen farther down the course. If the clubface is straight and perpendicular to the golf ball at the moment of impact, it will travel straight down the course with no spin.
The second factor at the moment of impact is the angle of the clubhead with relation to the golf ball. There is the horizontal angle of impact and vertical angle of impact, both of which are combined to determine the initial direction of the ball and the height of the golf balls flight path. The horizontal angle of impact determines the initial direction that the ball will travel. The vertical angle of impact will determine how high the ball will fly. Too low or too high and you lose distance in your shot.
Thirdly, the clubface must hit the ball on the sweet spot. The sweet spot is the area on the face of the golf club that will transfer the power of your golf swing to the golf ball. Transferring this power effectively will maximize its potential and carry the ball far and straight down the course (as long as the angle of the clubface and the club head at the moment of impact are good).
Lastly, the fourth factor that is important at the moment of impact is the the club head. The speed of your golf swing will determine how much power you transfer to the golf ball and ultimately how far it will go when you hit it on the sweet spot. The speed or power of the golf swing is not dependent on muscles alone. Other factors such as body flexibility and range of motion affect how a golfer employs those muscles in creating a fluid smooth swing.
The golf swing is not just picking up a golf club and trying to blast the ball down the course. It is a combination of many factors that if you can interpret, you can influence by making adjustments to your swing. Knowing what causes the golf ball to travel as it does will allow you to improve your golf swing and gain distance and accuracy on your shots. However, knowing the cause that produces an effect, and affecting that cause to produce the desired effect are two different things, both of which can be learned over time and with practice.
One thing that can help all golfers make immediate and positive improvements on their game is an understanding of the factors that affect the golf ball at the moment of impact by the golf club. Knowing what these factors are and how they affect the ball will enable you to understand what happens at the moment of impact and interpret the golf balls flight. When you understand what occurs and why, you can then make small adjustments to your swing and then see the effects on the next shot. The flight of the golf ball will tell you whether you were correct in your personal assessment and you made a good change towards a better golf swing. If you made a change that made the shot worse than before, all you should have to do is undo that change to your swing.
The moment of impact (ideally the golf club sweet spot hitting the ball) is a combination of four factors that will ultimately determine what direction and how far the ball will travel. The golf ball will react to these factors regardless of how they occur. The first important factor that affects your golf swing is the angle of the clubface at the moment of impacting the ball. The position of the clubface at the moment of impact is the most important factor influencing the initial direction and the spin of the ball. The clubface must point in the direction of the target you’ve chosen farther down the course. If the clubface is straight and perpendicular to the golf ball at the moment of impact, it will travel straight down the course with no spin.
The second factor at the moment of impact is the angle of the clubhead with relation to the golf ball. There is the horizontal angle of impact and vertical angle of impact, both of which are combined to determine the initial direction of the ball and the height of the golf balls flight path. The horizontal angle of impact determines the initial direction that the ball will travel. The vertical angle of impact will determine how high the ball will fly. Too low or too high and you lose distance in your shot.
Thirdly, the clubface must hit the ball on the sweet spot. The sweet spot is the area on the face of the golf club that will transfer the power of your golf swing to the golf ball. Transferring this power effectively will maximize its potential and carry the ball far and straight down the course (as long as the angle of the clubface and the club head at the moment of impact are good).
Lastly, the fourth factor that is important at the moment of impact is the the club head. The speed of your golf swing will determine how much power you transfer to the golf ball and ultimately how far it will go when you hit it on the sweet spot. The speed or power of the golf swing is not dependent on muscles alone. Other factors such as body flexibility and range of motion affect how a golfer employs those muscles in creating a fluid smooth swing.
The golf swing is not just picking up a golf club and trying to blast the ball down the course. It is a combination of many factors that if you can interpret, you can influence by making adjustments to your swing. Knowing what causes the golf ball to travel as it does will allow you to improve your golf swing and gain distance and accuracy on your shots. However, knowing the cause that produces an effect, and affecting that cause to produce the desired effect are two different things, both of which can be learned over time and with practice.
Friday, May 14, 2010
How To Enjoy Golf Without Hurting Your Lower Back
The golf swing, lower back, and injury are common phrases in the world golf. It is understood the golf swing places large amounts of stress on the lower back. This is simply a result of the mechanics of the golf swing itself. The execution of the golf swing places the lower back under immense shear forces each and every golf swing, and the muscles of the lower back must withstand these shear forces. Muscles of the body when under stress from physical activity eventually become fatigued. Once the lower back muscles are fatigued, supporting the stressors of the golf swing and executing the mechanics of the golf swing are compromised. Resulting in some very common situations for the golfer.
Again, we are all aware the lower back is one of the most oft injured areas of the body in the game of golf. Statistics indicate approximately 50% of all golfers will incur a lower back injury during their playing careers. This statistic tell us a great deal about the importance of keeping the lower back healthy in the game of golf. Outside of the lower back becoming injured from the golf swing.
The situation of performance on the golf course comes into play. Often times prior to injury occurring, a drop in performance will occur. This is a result of the fatigue within the lower back not allowing the mechanics of the golf swing to be executed correctly.
On the PGA Tour keeping the lower back strong and injury free is a daily task. It is understandable how much time is spent on lower back injury prevention when the biomechanics of the golf swing are understood. The biomechanics of the golf swing place the lower back under large amounts of shear force/stress every time you swing a golf club.
Over time, this can easily cause injury if you do not take the correct steps. This leads me to e-mail I received a little while back from BioForce subscriber Bryan
He wrote in with a question about his lower back and here is what he had to say;
“Sean,
I am 54 years of age and a very keen golfer.
Lately I have been experiencing back pain, maybe because of to much golfing?
I need your kind experience to advise me on this subject so that I can enjoy golf
without any harm to my back.”
Thank You,
Bryan
First and foremost the reasons for lower back pain is numerous and is best identified by a qualified physician.
My first suggestion is to get the lower back checked out by a back specialists. This will determine what exactly is going on with the lower back and what is the best treatment.
Now Bryan brings up a very good point in his e-mail. He discusses the possibility that his lower back discomfort is caused by playing too much golf. (you can never play enough golf!, well…maybe)
This absolutely could be the reason why his lower back is “tight” and “sore”.
Again, we know the lower back is placed under high amounts of stress every single swing of the golf club. Over time the muscles of the lower back can become fatigued from the golf swing. This will eventually lead to the muscles of the lower back “giving up” and becoming fatigued.
Once the muscles of the lower back are fatigued it is a very short step to injury. What is the process of eliminating this type of scenario playing out?
It simply requires the development of muscular endurance in the lower back to withstand the stressors of the golf swing. Bottom line the golf swing is a repetitive movement, requiring the body to perform the swing over and over again. In order for the muscles (lower back muscles included) involved in the golf swing to perform the repeatable movements of the golf swing over and over again in an efficient manner.
Muscular endurance is the ability of the neuromuscular system of the body to perform a repetitive biomechanical movement (i.e. golf swing) without becoming fatigued. How do you develop muscular endurance specific to the golf swing? By simply, implementing golf fitness exercises into a structured program.
In addition to the development of increased muscular endurance the efficiency of the golf swing mechanics may require adjustment. Efficiency within the mechanics of the golf swing can directly affect the amount of stress placed upon the lower back.
Additional research has indicated the shear forces placed upon the lower back of a professional golfer is significantly less than the amateur golfer. The reason for the difference is the mechanics of the golf swing performed by the professional is much more efficient, placing less stress on the lower back.
Stated previously, numerous reasons exist for the lower back to become injured. The mechanics of the golf swing and endurance with muscles of the lower back are only two of many possibilities. If the lower back is weak the shear forces placed upon it by the golf swing will eventually lead to fatigue. The development of higher levels of muscular endurance can counter act this situation. The utilization of golf fitness exercises is best in relation to the golf swing for this situation.
Additionally, the efficiency in which the mechanics of the golf swing are executed affects the lower back. A less efficient golf swing places higher levels of shear force upon the musculature of the lower back causing fatigue and possible injury. A comprehensive golf fitness program to develop higher levels of muscular endurance and the creation of a efficient golf swing golf through instruction may assist keeping your lower back injury free.
Again, we are all aware the lower back is one of the most oft injured areas of the body in the game of golf. Statistics indicate approximately 50% of all golfers will incur a lower back injury during their playing careers. This statistic tell us a great deal about the importance of keeping the lower back healthy in the game of golf. Outside of the lower back becoming injured from the golf swing.
The situation of performance on the golf course comes into play. Often times prior to injury occurring, a drop in performance will occur. This is a result of the fatigue within the lower back not allowing the mechanics of the golf swing to be executed correctly.
On the PGA Tour keeping the lower back strong and injury free is a daily task. It is understandable how much time is spent on lower back injury prevention when the biomechanics of the golf swing are understood. The biomechanics of the golf swing place the lower back under large amounts of shear force/stress every time you swing a golf club.
Over time, this can easily cause injury if you do not take the correct steps. This leads me to e-mail I received a little while back from BioForce subscriber Bryan
He wrote in with a question about his lower back and here is what he had to say;
“Sean,
I am 54 years of age and a very keen golfer.
Lately I have been experiencing back pain, maybe because of to much golfing?
I need your kind experience to advise me on this subject so that I can enjoy golf
without any harm to my back.”
Thank You,
Bryan
First and foremost the reasons for lower back pain is numerous and is best identified by a qualified physician.
My first suggestion is to get the lower back checked out by a back specialists. This will determine what exactly is going on with the lower back and what is the best treatment.
Now Bryan brings up a very good point in his e-mail. He discusses the possibility that his lower back discomfort is caused by playing too much golf. (you can never play enough golf!, well…maybe)
This absolutely could be the reason why his lower back is “tight” and “sore”.
Again, we know the lower back is placed under high amounts of stress every single swing of the golf club. Over time the muscles of the lower back can become fatigued from the golf swing. This will eventually lead to the muscles of the lower back “giving up” and becoming fatigued.
Once the muscles of the lower back are fatigued it is a very short step to injury. What is the process of eliminating this type of scenario playing out?
It simply requires the development of muscular endurance in the lower back to withstand the stressors of the golf swing. Bottom line the golf swing is a repetitive movement, requiring the body to perform the swing over and over again. In order for the muscles (lower back muscles included) involved in the golf swing to perform the repeatable movements of the golf swing over and over again in an efficient manner.
Muscular endurance is the ability of the neuromuscular system of the body to perform a repetitive biomechanical movement (i.e. golf swing) without becoming fatigued. How do you develop muscular endurance specific to the golf swing? By simply, implementing golf fitness exercises into a structured program.
In addition to the development of increased muscular endurance the efficiency of the golf swing mechanics may require adjustment. Efficiency within the mechanics of the golf swing can directly affect the amount of stress placed upon the lower back.
Additional research has indicated the shear forces placed upon the lower back of a professional golfer is significantly less than the amateur golfer. The reason for the difference is the mechanics of the golf swing performed by the professional is much more efficient, placing less stress on the lower back.
Stated previously, numerous reasons exist for the lower back to become injured. The mechanics of the golf swing and endurance with muscles of the lower back are only two of many possibilities. If the lower back is weak the shear forces placed upon it by the golf swing will eventually lead to fatigue. The development of higher levels of muscular endurance can counter act this situation. The utilization of golf fitness exercises is best in relation to the golf swing for this situation.
Additionally, the efficiency in which the mechanics of the golf swing are executed affects the lower back. A less efficient golf swing places higher levels of shear force upon the musculature of the lower back causing fatigue and possible injury. A comprehensive golf fitness program to develop higher levels of muscular endurance and the creation of a efficient golf swing golf through instruction may assist keeping your lower back injury free.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
3 Ways To Maximize On The Effectiveness Of A Golf Instruction Video
Golf instruction videos featuring techniques and tips from leading world class players are very common these days.
Still there are very few people who can claim to have had their games improved by a golf instruction video. So here are three tips to help you ensure that you reap maximum fruits from every golf instruction video that you ever get to watch.
1) Watch the golf instruction video several times
Some people watch golf instruction videos to try and get a single Magic formula that will revolutionize their game. They do not realize that the valuable nuggets in these videos are hidden in the many small things you need to do which add up to a great improvement in your game.
This is why it is very important to watch the video several times. At least twice.
2) Get webcam shots of yourself playing and compare your posture and positioning to what you see in the golf instruction video
It may not be very easy to tell what is wrong with your golf swing for example or how to correct it without taking a very close look at your game.
The best way to do this is to get somebody else to take webcam shots of you on the course as you play. When you watch these alongside the golf instruction videos, it will be very easy for you to tell where your problem areas are and what you need to do to correct them.
3) Do golf-specific exercises to condition your body and muscles
Thirdly you will need your body and the relevant muscles to co-operate with our mind as you try to implement what you have seen on the golf instruction video.
One of the most effective ways of doing this is by getting involved in a golf-specific exercise program to tone and strengthen all the ‘golf muscles’ in your body. This way, they’ll be nothing to stop you from reaping maximum benefits from every golf instruction video you watch.
Still there are very few people who can claim to have had their games improved by a golf instruction video. So here are three tips to help you ensure that you reap maximum fruits from every golf instruction video that you ever get to watch.
1) Watch the golf instruction video several times
Some people watch golf instruction videos to try and get a single Magic formula that will revolutionize their game. They do not realize that the valuable nuggets in these videos are hidden in the many small things you need to do which add up to a great improvement in your game.
This is why it is very important to watch the video several times. At least twice.
2) Get webcam shots of yourself playing and compare your posture and positioning to what you see in the golf instruction video
It may not be very easy to tell what is wrong with your golf swing for example or how to correct it without taking a very close look at your game.
The best way to do this is to get somebody else to take webcam shots of you on the course as you play. When you watch these alongside the golf instruction videos, it will be very easy for you to tell where your problem areas are and what you need to do to correct them.
3) Do golf-specific exercises to condition your body and muscles
Thirdly you will need your body and the relevant muscles to co-operate with our mind as you try to implement what you have seen on the golf instruction video.
One of the most effective ways of doing this is by getting involved in a golf-specific exercise program to tone and strengthen all the ‘golf muscles’ in your body. This way, they’ll be nothing to stop you from reaping maximum benefits from every golf instruction video you watch.
Friday, May 7, 2010
National Golf Tournaments for Competitive Recreational Golfers
Whether you're an avid novice or a seasoned player, the chances are good that you've wished for the opportunity to compete in a golf tournament. It's great to watch the PGA Tour on television, but nothing is more satisfying than entering and playing in golf competitions yourself. Unfortunately, while golf events are routinely held at private courses and country clubs, most golfers who play on public courses don't get the opportunity to participate. Even if they do, they don't have the chance to compete against golfers from around the nation.
It shouldn't come as a surprise, then, that the Internet is filling the gap and making it possible for golfers of all ability levels to compete on a national level. After all, community building has become a cornerstone of Web 2.0 in arenas as diverse as politics, music, and gardening - why not golf?
Indeed, the latest trend in the world of golf is membership in an online competitive golf association. The concept's beauty lies both in its simplicity and its utter inclusiveness. Unlike traditional men's and women's golf tournaments, which require organization, registration, and travel, online competitive golf enables golfers to play on any United States Golf Association public rated golf course. Best of all, you can play anytime and with anyone - whether or not they are members of the association.
Typically, an online association will hold monthly events, with each event consisting of four rounds. This doesn't mean that you necessarily have to play four rounds of golf during a single month; instead, you can post your score once you've completed four rounds of play. Your score will count for the month it's entered online, not the month it's played.
Usually, there are seven different types of tournaments held. First, there are the Men's Individual and Women's Individual tournaments, in which only the total strokes are counted. Next, there are the Men's Individual with Handicap and Women's Individual with Handicap, which consists of the total number of strokes minus the golfer's handicap. Then, there are the Two-Person Best Ball and Coed Best Ball tournaments, in which each player plays his or her own ball, but for each hole the lowest score of the team counts toward the total. If, for example, the first player gets five strokes on a hole and the second player gets four strokes on a hole, the second player's strokes count for that hole. Finally, to build on the enthusiasm that many families feel for golf, online associations often include a Parent-Son/Daughter Best Ball tournament.
The competition gets fierce because golfers' scores are posted online to the electronic scoreboard. Typically, the winners of each month's qualifier and the best players in each tournament are invited to compete at a championship to benefit a charitable organization.
While some might ask what would prevent a member from posting fake scores, golfers know that the game is based on principles of integrity and civility. Honest play and good sportsmanship are the bedrock of the game of golf, so members are trusted to post accurate scores.
Most of all, though, those who play golf are embracing the opportunity to compete in national golf tournaments and clambering to see their names at the top of the leaderboard!
It shouldn't come as a surprise, then, that the Internet is filling the gap and making it possible for golfers of all ability levels to compete on a national level. After all, community building has become a cornerstone of Web 2.0 in arenas as diverse as politics, music, and gardening - why not golf?
Indeed, the latest trend in the world of golf is membership in an online competitive golf association. The concept's beauty lies both in its simplicity and its utter inclusiveness. Unlike traditional men's and women's golf tournaments, which require organization, registration, and travel, online competitive golf enables golfers to play on any United States Golf Association public rated golf course. Best of all, you can play anytime and with anyone - whether or not they are members of the association.
Typically, an online association will hold monthly events, with each event consisting of four rounds. This doesn't mean that you necessarily have to play four rounds of golf during a single month; instead, you can post your score once you've completed four rounds of play. Your score will count for the month it's entered online, not the month it's played.
Usually, there are seven different types of tournaments held. First, there are the Men's Individual and Women's Individual tournaments, in which only the total strokes are counted. Next, there are the Men's Individual with Handicap and Women's Individual with Handicap, which consists of the total number of strokes minus the golfer's handicap. Then, there are the Two-Person Best Ball and Coed Best Ball tournaments, in which each player plays his or her own ball, but for each hole the lowest score of the team counts toward the total. If, for example, the first player gets five strokes on a hole and the second player gets four strokes on a hole, the second player's strokes count for that hole. Finally, to build on the enthusiasm that many families feel for golf, online associations often include a Parent-Son/Daughter Best Ball tournament.
The competition gets fierce because golfers' scores are posted online to the electronic scoreboard. Typically, the winners of each month's qualifier and the best players in each tournament are invited to compete at a championship to benefit a charitable organization.
While some might ask what would prevent a member from posting fake scores, golfers know that the game is based on principles of integrity and civility. Honest play and good sportsmanship are the bedrock of the game of golf, so members are trusted to post accurate scores.
Most of all, though, those who play golf are embracing the opportunity to compete in national golf tournaments and clambering to see their names at the top of the leaderboard!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
3 Sure Fire Ways to Generate More Power off the Tee
Power can be elusive to golfers. Is true power generated through technique, strength or something more? Every golfer wants more power, more distance, more consistency. Here are 3 ways to generate the kind of power you have only dreamed of…until now.
1. Spinal Rotation. Every time you swing the golf club, you rotate around your spine. So, what does this have to do with power? Power is generated every time you stabilize your hips to make a full backswing with spinal rotation. Most golfers have heard of the X factor. This, of course, refers to the differential between the movement in your hips and your spine. Increase your spinal rotation and a new sense of power will be released.
2. Core Based Exercises. Your body's "core", the area around your trunk and pelvis, is where your center of gravity is located. When you have good core stability, the muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen work in harmony. They provide support to your spine. The core is the power zone. It is where all movement begins. A well-developed core allows for improved force output, increased neuromuscular efficiency, and decreased incidence of overuse injuries. A weak core can make you susceptible to poor posture and injury.
3. Plyometrics. Plyometrics are any exercise where the muscle is contracted eccentricly then immediately, concentricly. Put simply, the muscle is stretched (i.e. loaded) before it is contracted. A good example is medicine ball horizontal twists and standing golf swings. According to a recent study published in the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) journal, amateur golfers significantly increased their driving distances after just eight weeks of strength training while incorporating plyometrics. Mean driving distance increased 4.3% for the combined training group, with mean club head speed increasing 1.5%.
Once you incorporate these 3 techniques into your exercise program, you’ll never be disgruntled about driving distance or power generation again.
1. Spinal Rotation. Every time you swing the golf club, you rotate around your spine. So, what does this have to do with power? Power is generated every time you stabilize your hips to make a full backswing with spinal rotation. Most golfers have heard of the X factor. This, of course, refers to the differential between the movement in your hips and your spine. Increase your spinal rotation and a new sense of power will be released.
2. Core Based Exercises. Your body's "core", the area around your trunk and pelvis, is where your center of gravity is located. When you have good core stability, the muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen work in harmony. They provide support to your spine. The core is the power zone. It is where all movement begins. A well-developed core allows for improved force output, increased neuromuscular efficiency, and decreased incidence of overuse injuries. A weak core can make you susceptible to poor posture and injury.
3. Plyometrics. Plyometrics are any exercise where the muscle is contracted eccentricly then immediately, concentricly. Put simply, the muscle is stretched (i.e. loaded) before it is contracted. A good example is medicine ball horizontal twists and standing golf swings. According to a recent study published in the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) journal, amateur golfers significantly increased their driving distances after just eight weeks of strength training while incorporating plyometrics. Mean driving distance increased 4.3% for the combined training group, with mean club head speed increasing 1.5%.
Once you incorporate these 3 techniques into your exercise program, you’ll never be disgruntled about driving distance or power generation again.
Friday, April 30, 2010
3 Tips to Improve Your Golf Swing
Do you have a favorite golf player? Is it Tiger Woods or Ernie Els? Have you ever thought that your swing looks like theirs? Woods and Els are two great golf players. When you watch them play, you will definitely notice their graceful and powerful swings. Honestly, it is difficult to imitate that just by watching.
Having a good swing needs constant practice. Also, your body needs to be well tuned up for it to perform well. Here are some basic tips to help you improve your golf swing and may help you shoot in the 90s or even 80s.
1. Warm up. Just like any other game or sport, golf players need a little warming up before starting a round. This is what most players, especially amateurs, often take for granted.
It is best to come early at the golf course and take a few minutes to stretch those muscles and warm up. This will make your muscles "know" that they are in for something and that they should be prepared. Taking a few swings in the driving range will also help you get tuned up and perform better.
2. Exercise. This is really important, not only for golf. Constantly exercising your body and muscles will keep them toned and ready for any activity. This will also prevent common body aches and pains that you usually feel when playing golf.
Getting into the habit of exercising, especially tuning up your muscles will have a great impact on your swing. It will help you have a good stance and increase total balance and control on your swings.
3. Do not swing too hard yet. It is really tempting to give your swing that extra effort. However, it is not recommended unless you already have the control of your swing. The key to a powerful and graceful swing is the balance and control that you have, add to it the proper form and stance.
So how do you get to learn to control your swing? Again, it's tip number 2. Regular exercise will, in time, allow you to have a faster, more controlled swing.
Aside from these simple steps to do, it is also best to ask help from the pros, personally or thru online methods. They can give good advices as they already have learned a lot from their experiences. Keeping updated with the latest about golf will also help.
Also, most players tend to be so conscious in their desire to improve their swing that their minds are focused on every aspect of the swing itself; doing that will only make your swing look awkward. Instead, it is best to keep your mind off your swing. Try to focus on something else and the good swing will just follow.
Try to do these things when you play golf again. And do these regularly, then notice the change it will make on your next golf swing.
Having a good swing needs constant practice. Also, your body needs to be well tuned up for it to perform well. Here are some basic tips to help you improve your golf swing and may help you shoot in the 90s or even 80s.
1. Warm up. Just like any other game or sport, golf players need a little warming up before starting a round. This is what most players, especially amateurs, often take for granted.
It is best to come early at the golf course and take a few minutes to stretch those muscles and warm up. This will make your muscles "know" that they are in for something and that they should be prepared. Taking a few swings in the driving range will also help you get tuned up and perform better.
2. Exercise. This is really important, not only for golf. Constantly exercising your body and muscles will keep them toned and ready for any activity. This will also prevent common body aches and pains that you usually feel when playing golf.
Getting into the habit of exercising, especially tuning up your muscles will have a great impact on your swing. It will help you have a good stance and increase total balance and control on your swings.
3. Do not swing too hard yet. It is really tempting to give your swing that extra effort. However, it is not recommended unless you already have the control of your swing. The key to a powerful and graceful swing is the balance and control that you have, add to it the proper form and stance.
So how do you get to learn to control your swing? Again, it's tip number 2. Regular exercise will, in time, allow you to have a faster, more controlled swing.
Aside from these simple steps to do, it is also best to ask help from the pros, personally or thru online methods. They can give good advices as they already have learned a lot from their experiences. Keeping updated with the latest about golf will also help.
Also, most players tend to be so conscious in their desire to improve their swing that their minds are focused on every aspect of the swing itself; doing that will only make your swing look awkward. Instead, it is best to keep your mind off your swing. Try to focus on something else and the good swing will just follow.
Try to do these things when you play golf again. And do these regularly, then notice the change it will make on your next golf swing.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
How to Eliminate Your Golf Slice Quickly and Easily
Here's a really good tip that may help you to get rid of your slice. Best of all, it's really pretty simple once you get the hang of it, and understand why it's being used.
Chances are that you have battled with a slice at some point in your golfing days. To be completely direct with you, dealing with a slice really sucks. It hurts your golf game in many more ways than one.
Luckily, it's fairly easy to fix. I cannot claim that this small tip will completely cure your slice, but there's a good chance that it will. I hope it does.
First off, please understand that when you come into the impact zone, there are really only 2 factors that can determine the "shape" of ball flight.
1. The angle of the club face at impact.
2. The Path the club is taking at impact.
So, here's a few things you should concentrate on.
Try to keep your leading shoulder "down" on the ball through impact. This is called staying strong through impact. Many times the leading shoulder (left shoulder if right handed) flies up before impact. Now just for a minute, think about what that does to the club head when it's in the impact zone.
Get up from the computer and actually go though the motions slowly. Let your leading shoulder fly up as you approach impact and you'll actually be able feel and see the clubface coming from an outside-in path. That’s the cause of the slice you are battling.
See, golf is all about thinking and analyzing your shots to get better. A huge part of this game is understanding "why" you're getting a certain result, and the physics behind that result. Thinking through your golf swing will provide huge dividends if you're willing to invest the time it takes.
So what can you do to correct that flying shoulder? Well, for starters, try to learn to keep your leading shoulder strong. Keep that shoulder "Down" on the ball all the way through impact, even after the ball is gone and flying straight down the fairway.
So, after impact the leading shoulder is still down. The triangle between your shoulders and chest is still present. Most importantly, the body has NOT gotten ahead of the hands. This is a HUGE distinction. As you may notice, the left shoulder is actually higher than the right shoulder. So what do I mean when I say "leading shoulder down"?
You have to envision yourself from the back looking down on the ball. When I say "down", I mean that the leading shoulder and chest is still facing the ball through impact.
So even though it may seem like the leading shoulder is higher than the trailing shoulder, it's still facing the ball at impact. NOT TOWARDS THIRD BASE in comparison to the ball. If your leading shoulder was facing towards third base at impact, which would mean that you have let the leading shoulder fly up.
Furthermore, hand action is huge in this game. You must learn to release your hands correctly through the ball. This means that you release the hands while the leading shoulder is still "down", or facing the ball.
The key is to let your arms release through the ball, while your left shoulder is "Down" on the ball. To do this you will need to rotate your forearms correctly, and use your leading ELBOW (not shoulder) as a hinge. So another way to explain this movement would be that your hands are still moving towards the target, but your leading elbow has almost stopped.
Keep the leading shoulder down and let your arms and hands release through the ball and you will see the ball go farther and higher. This will take a while to get used to, but once it clicks, the results will be outstanding.
Chances are that you have battled with a slice at some point in your golfing days. To be completely direct with you, dealing with a slice really sucks. It hurts your golf game in many more ways than one.
Luckily, it's fairly easy to fix. I cannot claim that this small tip will completely cure your slice, but there's a good chance that it will. I hope it does.
First off, please understand that when you come into the impact zone, there are really only 2 factors that can determine the "shape" of ball flight.
1. The angle of the club face at impact.
2. The Path the club is taking at impact.
So, here's a few things you should concentrate on.
Try to keep your leading shoulder "down" on the ball through impact. This is called staying strong through impact. Many times the leading shoulder (left shoulder if right handed) flies up before impact. Now just for a minute, think about what that does to the club head when it's in the impact zone.
Get up from the computer and actually go though the motions slowly. Let your leading shoulder fly up as you approach impact and you'll actually be able feel and see the clubface coming from an outside-in path. That’s the cause of the slice you are battling.
See, golf is all about thinking and analyzing your shots to get better. A huge part of this game is understanding "why" you're getting a certain result, and the physics behind that result. Thinking through your golf swing will provide huge dividends if you're willing to invest the time it takes.
So what can you do to correct that flying shoulder? Well, for starters, try to learn to keep your leading shoulder strong. Keep that shoulder "Down" on the ball all the way through impact, even after the ball is gone and flying straight down the fairway.
So, after impact the leading shoulder is still down. The triangle between your shoulders and chest is still present. Most importantly, the body has NOT gotten ahead of the hands. This is a HUGE distinction. As you may notice, the left shoulder is actually higher than the right shoulder. So what do I mean when I say "leading shoulder down"?
You have to envision yourself from the back looking down on the ball. When I say "down", I mean that the leading shoulder and chest is still facing the ball through impact.
So even though it may seem like the leading shoulder is higher than the trailing shoulder, it's still facing the ball at impact. NOT TOWARDS THIRD BASE in comparison to the ball. If your leading shoulder was facing towards third base at impact, which would mean that you have let the leading shoulder fly up.
Furthermore, hand action is huge in this game. You must learn to release your hands correctly through the ball. This means that you release the hands while the leading shoulder is still "down", or facing the ball.
The key is to let your arms release through the ball, while your left shoulder is "Down" on the ball. To do this you will need to rotate your forearms correctly, and use your leading ELBOW (not shoulder) as a hinge. So another way to explain this movement would be that your hands are still moving towards the target, but your leading elbow has almost stopped.
Keep the leading shoulder down and let your arms and hands release through the ball and you will see the ball go farther and higher. This will take a while to get used to, but once it clicks, the results will be outstanding.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Golf Jokes: Kawasaki
Kawasaki
A businessman traveled to Japan to meet and play golf with a few Japanese business associates. Having nothing to do the night before his game, he decided to solicit the services of a prostitute. Later, when they were in the throes of passion, she suddenly screamed out "Kawasaki!" Not knowing the translation, he figured it meant he was performing exceptionally well, and so he kept going.
Again she screamed, "Kawasaki! Kawasaki!" And again, he smiled proudly at this congratulation and continued. Finally, she shrieked "KAWASAKI!" a third time, jumped out of bed and ran from the room. "Must have been too good for her!" he thought to himself, and went to sleep contented with himself.
The next day, while in the middle of his round of golf, one of his Japanese associates hit a perfect 6-iron off the tee right into the cup for a hole-in-one! Remembering his new word and wanting to impress his associates with his linguistic proficiency, the man yelled out Kawasaki!"
Perplexed, the Japanese golfer turned to him and asked, "What do you mean, wrong hole?"
A businessman traveled to Japan to meet and play golf with a few Japanese business associates. Having nothing to do the night before his game, he decided to solicit the services of a prostitute. Later, when they were in the throes of passion, she suddenly screamed out "Kawasaki!" Not knowing the translation, he figured it meant he was performing exceptionally well, and so he kept going.
Again she screamed, "Kawasaki! Kawasaki!" And again, he smiled proudly at this congratulation and continued. Finally, she shrieked "KAWASAKI!" a third time, jumped out of bed and ran from the room. "Must have been too good for her!" he thought to himself, and went to sleep contented with himself.
The next day, while in the middle of his round of golf, one of his Japanese associates hit a perfect 6-iron off the tee right into the cup for a hole-in-one! Remembering his new word and wanting to impress his associates with his linguistic proficiency, the man yelled out Kawasaki!"
Perplexed, the Japanese golfer turned to him and asked, "What do you mean, wrong hole?"
How Online Golf Equipment Reviews Helped My Love Of The Game
When a friend of mine introduced me to golf many years ago, I wasn’t overly impressed and asked him what he saw in the game. He said, “Well, golf means different things to different people. To me, it’s mostly about being away from my busy life for a few hours, being one with nature, and talking to some good friends.” That made sense to me, but I quickly found out what he meant as I became a golfer, too, taking lessons and burying myself in golf equipment reviews.
People do take up golf for different reasons and it does mean something different to almost every player. For some, like my friend, it’s relaxing on a beautiful course and enjoying nature and the scenery. To others it’s a great way to meet with clients and close deals. Some just enjoy an occasional round. Others get hooked and pursue mastery of the game with single-minded passion. But no matter what attracts you to the game of golf, we all have something in common: we need equipment. Lots of it.
Initially I had a real problem with that. Golf shops intimidated me. I didn’t really know much about golf clubs, golf shoes or even golf bags and I was embarrassed about my lack of knowledge. Whenever I went to a pro shop, everyone else seemed to be an expert, knowing everything about golf, except me. I didn’t understand half of what sales people were talking about and I didn’t even understand many of their questions. So I felt they were talking down to me and I resented that.
So I began reading golf books and magazines and asked golfing buddies for advice. I ended up with a good set of clubs, found that some balls worked better for me than others (I am a Titleist man), and spent a small fortune on golf equipment (Nike made a small fortune off me) I did or did not need. Truth be told, my lack of knowledge and my being ill at ease with the sales people in the pro shops probably kept me from enjoying the game as much as I should have.
All of this changed in the past few years. I am an online person. To me, finding accurate and unbiased golf equipment reviews on the web was just what I had been waiting for. I am not talking about just online golf stores or golf bulletin boards. What helped me were sites done by golfing enthusiasts who simply wanted to share their knowledge with others. See, while I used to be aware of the likes of Burton or Ogio or Ping, there wasn’t anyone who told me who truly made the best bag for me. I was told some of the training aids out there really worked while others were a waste of money but I didn’t know which was which. I knew of amazing advancements in golf carts and I had even heard of new technologies like golf gps, but I didn't know what was valuable information and what was just marketing.
For me, the emergence of golf enthusiast sites with golf equipment reviews made all the difference. I love reading reviews written by real people as opposed to just sales spiels, and I love how some of those sites explain it all in terms that make sense. I love to read and learn, and these days I totally rely on golf sites that are not only entertaining, but also provide me with the reviews I need and even recommendations on where to get the best deals.
Come to http://www.newingolf.blogspot.com to find out more about golf!
People do take up golf for different reasons and it does mean something different to almost every player. For some, like my friend, it’s relaxing on a beautiful course and enjoying nature and the scenery. To others it’s a great way to meet with clients and close deals. Some just enjoy an occasional round. Others get hooked and pursue mastery of the game with single-minded passion. But no matter what attracts you to the game of golf, we all have something in common: we need equipment. Lots of it.
Initially I had a real problem with that. Golf shops intimidated me. I didn’t really know much about golf clubs, golf shoes or even golf bags and I was embarrassed about my lack of knowledge. Whenever I went to a pro shop, everyone else seemed to be an expert, knowing everything about golf, except me. I didn’t understand half of what sales people were talking about and I didn’t even understand many of their questions. So I felt they were talking down to me and I resented that.
So I began reading golf books and magazines and asked golfing buddies for advice. I ended up with a good set of clubs, found that some balls worked better for me than others (I am a Titleist man), and spent a small fortune on golf equipment (Nike made a small fortune off me) I did or did not need. Truth be told, my lack of knowledge and my being ill at ease with the sales people in the pro shops probably kept me from enjoying the game as much as I should have.
All of this changed in the past few years. I am an online person. To me, finding accurate and unbiased golf equipment reviews on the web was just what I had been waiting for. I am not talking about just online golf stores or golf bulletin boards. What helped me were sites done by golfing enthusiasts who simply wanted to share their knowledge with others. See, while I used to be aware of the likes of Burton or Ogio or Ping, there wasn’t anyone who told me who truly made the best bag for me. I was told some of the training aids out there really worked while others were a waste of money but I didn’t know which was which. I knew of amazing advancements in golf carts and I had even heard of new technologies like golf gps, but I didn't know what was valuable information and what was just marketing.
For me, the emergence of golf enthusiast sites with golf equipment reviews made all the difference. I love reading reviews written by real people as opposed to just sales spiels, and I love how some of those sites explain it all in terms that make sense. I love to read and learn, and these days I totally rely on golf sites that are not only entertaining, but also provide me with the reviews I need and even recommendations on where to get the best deals.
Come to http://www.newingolf.blogspot.com to find out more about golf!
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
3 Sure Fire Ways to Generate More Power off the Tee
Power can be elusive to golfers. Is true power generated through technique, strength or something more? Every golfer wants more power, more distance, more consistency. Here are 3 ways to generate the kind of power you have only dreamed of…until now.
1. Spinal Rotation. Every time you swing the golf club, you rotate around your spine. So, what does this have to do with power? Power is generated every time you stabilize your hips to make a full backswing with spinal rotation. Most golfers have heard of the X factor. This, of course, refers to the differential between the movement in your hips and your spine. Increase your spinal rotation and a new sense of power will be released.
2. Core Based Exercises. Your body's "core", the area around your trunk and pelvis, is where your center of gravity is located. When you have good core stability, the muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen work in harmony. They provide support to your spine. The core is the power zone. It is where all movement begins. A well-developed core allows for improved force output, increased neuromuscular efficiency, and decreased incidence of overuse injuries. A weak core can make you susceptible to poor posture and injury.
3. Plyometrics. Plyometrics are any exercise where the muscle is contracted eccentricly then immediately, concentricly. Put simply, the muscle is stretched (i.e. loaded) before it is contracted. A good example is medicine ball horizontal twists and standing golf swings. According to a recent study published in the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) journal, amateur golfers significantly increased their driving distances after just eight weeks of strength training while incorporating plyometrics. Mean driving distance increased 4.3% for the combined training group, with mean club head speed increasing 1.5%.
Once you incorporate these 3 techniques into your exercise program, you’ll never be disgruntled about driving distance or power generation again.
1. Spinal Rotation. Every time you swing the golf club, you rotate around your spine. So, what does this have to do with power? Power is generated every time you stabilize your hips to make a full backswing with spinal rotation. Most golfers have heard of the X factor. This, of course, refers to the differential between the movement in your hips and your spine. Increase your spinal rotation and a new sense of power will be released.
2. Core Based Exercises. Your body's "core", the area around your trunk and pelvis, is where your center of gravity is located. When you have good core stability, the muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen work in harmony. They provide support to your spine. The core is the power zone. It is where all movement begins. A well-developed core allows for improved force output, increased neuromuscular efficiency, and decreased incidence of overuse injuries. A weak core can make you susceptible to poor posture and injury.
3. Plyometrics. Plyometrics are any exercise where the muscle is contracted eccentricly then immediately, concentricly. Put simply, the muscle is stretched (i.e. loaded) before it is contracted. A good example is medicine ball horizontal twists and standing golf swings. According to a recent study published in the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) journal, amateur golfers significantly increased their driving distances after just eight weeks of strength training while incorporating plyometrics. Mean driving distance increased 4.3% for the combined training group, with mean club head speed increasing 1.5%.
Once you incorporate these 3 techniques into your exercise program, you’ll never be disgruntled about driving distance or power generation again.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
WTS: some golf drivers
Looking to clear some items:
Transaction: Pls contact 9--6--9--8-0-9-5-8. No sms pls call
Only some items are slightly negotiable. Do contact me if keen.
Authentic Light used TaylorMade Driver V STEEL.(Selling on behalf of friend) -- $150 $99
Great Condition 9/10.
Shaft: TaylorMade Graphite R
degree/loft :10.5
Callaway Big Bertha 3 WOOD Club Driver - $55
OOZLER 5-WOOD (19deg) Golf Club - $79
Selling Cheap. Letting go cheaply!
Pls contact 9--6--9--8-0-9-5-8. No sms pls call
Only some items are slightly negotiable. Do contact me if keen.
Disclaimer: Once transaction, item is strictly not refundable.
Please do not call if posting has been made for more than 1 month as item could already have been sold
Transaction: Pls contact 9--6--9--8-0-9-5-8. No sms pls call
Only some items are slightly negotiable. Do contact me if keen.
Authentic Light used TaylorMade Driver V STEEL.(Selling on behalf of friend) -- $150 $99
Great Condition 9/10.
Shaft: TaylorMade Graphite R
degree/loft :10.5
Callaway Big Bertha Driver 10deg Driver Club - $59
Callaway Big Bertha 3 WOOD Club Driver - $55
OOZLER 5-WOOD (19deg) Golf Club - $79
Selling Cheap. Letting go cheaply!
Transaction
Pls contact 9--6--9--8-0-9-5-8. No sms pls call
Only some items are slightly negotiable. Do contact me if keen.
Disclaimer: Once transaction, item is strictly not refundable.
Please do not call if posting has been made for more than 1 month as item could already have been sold
WTS: Callaway Golf Callaway Ladies Gems Iron Set
Callaway Golf Callaway Ladies Gems Iron Set Graphite 5-10 & SW (Callaway sunday bag included)
Selling for 499 negotiable. Please sms to 93945477 if interested.
Please do not call if post have been made for more than 1 month as item could have already been sold
Selling for 499 negotiable. Please sms to 93945477 if interested.
Please do not call if post have been made for more than 1 month as item could have already been sold
An alternative way to start learning golf instead of practising driving
An alternative way to start learning golf
Putting and Chipping:
Start slow, with a focus on putting. This will give you a good foundation of power control and the important theory of focusing on the target. The new golfer will also build a good amount of confidence as the putts go in the hole, even if they are only from 3 or 4 feet.
Chipping and short pitch shots are the next chapter and using a specific target is important. This will let the student get a good concept of solid ball contact, and how you can get some amount of distance with very little power.
At each of the steps along the way, your instructor should control the pace of progress. At the end of a first session, possibly you have a putter and possibly a 9-iron or pitching wedge to practice with. The new golfer is likely better to wait a while to buy new clubs.
Practice and homework:
Between sessions, you need to practice and work on ideas provided at the first session. Your instructor should quiz you on your progress and answer questions you may have that caused issues for you. The balance of this session should be constant review and a good amount of repeating the basic concepts.
The full swing:
Late in session two, or in session three, you may be ready for the full swing. This can start efficiently with swings without a ball and focusing on fundamentals like the grip, stance, and brushing the ground with the club. Here again, start slow with abbreviated versions of the full swing, to understand the concept. As the beginner starts to hit balls, again keep it slow and easy, to short targets.
Another part of the homework assignment is to build strength and agility. There are even some specific yoga programs designed for golf and making your hands and wrists stronger which will be very helpful.
For women and juniors especially, the correct size clubs are crucial. Often I hear about kids using the Dad’s old clubs to begin. It seems like a good idea at the time, but the size and the weight is likely more of a deterrent to success.
adapted from hookedongolf.com
Putting and Chipping:
Start slow, with a focus on putting. This will give you a good foundation of power control and the important theory of focusing on the target. The new golfer will also build a good amount of confidence as the putts go in the hole, even if they are only from 3 or 4 feet.
Chipping and short pitch shots are the next chapter and using a specific target is important. This will let the student get a good concept of solid ball contact, and how you can get some amount of distance with very little power.
At each of the steps along the way, your instructor should control the pace of progress. At the end of a first session, possibly you have a putter and possibly a 9-iron or pitching wedge to practice with. The new golfer is likely better to wait a while to buy new clubs.
Practice and homework:
Between sessions, you need to practice and work on ideas provided at the first session. Your instructor should quiz you on your progress and answer questions you may have that caused issues for you. The balance of this session should be constant review and a good amount of repeating the basic concepts.
The full swing:
Late in session two, or in session three, you may be ready for the full swing. This can start efficiently with swings without a ball and focusing on fundamentals like the grip, stance, and brushing the ground with the club. Here again, start slow with abbreviated versions of the full swing, to understand the concept. As the beginner starts to hit balls, again keep it slow and easy, to short targets.
Another part of the homework assignment is to build strength and agility. There are even some specific yoga programs designed for golf and making your hands and wrists stronger which will be very helpful.
For women and juniors especially, the correct size clubs are crucial. Often I hear about kids using the Dad’s old clubs to begin. It seems like a good idea at the time, but the size and the weight is likely more of a deterrent to success.
adapted from hookedongolf.com
Golf Clubs and Training Aids Get You in the Swing
Golf is undoubtedly one of the world's most rewarding and frustrating sports. The serenity and beauty of a golf course on a sunny day belies the tension that can creep into a round when we're not hitting our best. While the concentration that the game requires is often the perfect antidote to the stress of work and life responsibilities, there are times when the safe haven of 18 holes feels more like seven levels of the netherworld. Unfortunately, most of us don't have access to a personal golf coach or trainer, and we're forced to work out the kinks in our game on our own. Thankfully, though, there are golf clubs and training aids that can help get us back into the swing. Here are some of the most popular:
Full Swing Trainers - There are several types of full swing trainers, but among the most popular is a hinged driver that gives you immediate feedback and helps you overcome slices and hooks. Another popular system involves a swing hoop and weighted club that creates the perfect golf swing. The idea is that you can adjust your swing until you gain control and can hit consistently. In the process, you strengthen the muscles specifically used in golf and build muscle memory, so that you'll more instinctively hit the ball straight when you're out on the course.
Stance Trainers - Stance trainers focus on both sets of extremities: the legs and the arms. Many golfers underestimate the importance of the right stance in powerful, consistent hitting. Trainers that focus on the legs and feet generally work by restricting lateral movement and keeping the feet from spinning out. One popular stance trainer for the arms focuses on keeping the trailing arm from closing more than 90 degrees, while another connects the arm to the body in order to help the arm fold correctly. Both assist by keeping your golf clubs in position to achieve the proper downswing. There are also trainers that help position the wrist and hand for delayed hits, greater accuracy, and more consistency.
Putting Aids - There are a variety of training aids available to help you increase your putting accuracy. In addition to the mats that are meant to mimic greens, there are putting braces, lasers that mount to the putter's shaft, and trainers that have guidance rails to ensure that your stroke is smooth and straight. Some of the most intriguing new digital devices that read greens so that you'll know how they break and can adjust your stroke accordingly.
And Even More - In addition to the types of training aids mentioned, there is a vast array of products available that can help you with tempo, alignment, balance, weight transfer, swing analysis, and release.
Although training aids can be tremendously helpful in working out the kinks in your game, the importance of good equipment can't be underestimated. A good set of golf clubs will help you play your best, but if you can't afford a new set, you can always opt for brand name pre-owned golf clubs. Used golf clubs often come with a certification and warranty, so you can be assured of their quality. The right golf shoes can make a significant difference in your positioning and consistency, and the comfort of the right golf apparel and golf accessories allow you to keep your mind on the game.
In the end, the right golf clubs and training aids accomplish the same goal: taking the frustration out of the game and putting the enjoyment back in.
Full Swing Trainers - There are several types of full swing trainers, but among the most popular is a hinged driver that gives you immediate feedback and helps you overcome slices and hooks. Another popular system involves a swing hoop and weighted club that creates the perfect golf swing. The idea is that you can adjust your swing until you gain control and can hit consistently. In the process, you strengthen the muscles specifically used in golf and build muscle memory, so that you'll more instinctively hit the ball straight when you're out on the course.
Stance Trainers - Stance trainers focus on both sets of extremities: the legs and the arms. Many golfers underestimate the importance of the right stance in powerful, consistent hitting. Trainers that focus on the legs and feet generally work by restricting lateral movement and keeping the feet from spinning out. One popular stance trainer for the arms focuses on keeping the trailing arm from closing more than 90 degrees, while another connects the arm to the body in order to help the arm fold correctly. Both assist by keeping your golf clubs in position to achieve the proper downswing. There are also trainers that help position the wrist and hand for delayed hits, greater accuracy, and more consistency.
Putting Aids - There are a variety of training aids available to help you increase your putting accuracy. In addition to the mats that are meant to mimic greens, there are putting braces, lasers that mount to the putter's shaft, and trainers that have guidance rails to ensure that your stroke is smooth and straight. Some of the most intriguing new digital devices that read greens so that you'll know how they break and can adjust your stroke accordingly.
And Even More - In addition to the types of training aids mentioned, there is a vast array of products available that can help you with tempo, alignment, balance, weight transfer, swing analysis, and release.
Although training aids can be tremendously helpful in working out the kinks in your game, the importance of good equipment can't be underestimated. A good set of golf clubs will help you play your best, but if you can't afford a new set, you can always opt for brand name pre-owned golf clubs. Used golf clubs often come with a certification and warranty, so you can be assured of their quality. The right golf shoes can make a significant difference in your positioning and consistency, and the comfort of the right golf apparel and golf accessories allow you to keep your mind on the game.
In the end, the right golf clubs and training aids accomplish the same goal: taking the frustration out of the game and putting the enjoyment back in.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Calculating Your Golf Handicap
Calculating Your Golf Handicap
Your golf handicap is meant to measure how well you'd stand up to a "scratch" golfer on any given course and allows golfers of different abilities to compete fairly. Stand up to even the best of your opponents and learn to track your golf handicap by visiting the resources below.
Follow these simple steps to improve your game!
1. Take the scores from the last five rounds (18 holes each) that you played.
2. Look up the rating and slope for the course that you played for each of these scores. This information is usually printed on the scorecard, although you can also get the rating and slope by calling the course.
3. Subtract the course rating from the score you earned on that course.
4. Multiply that number by 113.
5. Divide that number by the slope of the course. This number is the differential.
6. Take the lowest of your five differentials and multiply it by 0.96, and you have your handicap.
Your golf handicap is meant to measure how well you'd stand up to a "scratch" golfer on any given course and allows golfers of different abilities to compete fairly. Stand up to even the best of your opponents and learn to track your golf handicap by visiting the resources below.
Follow these simple steps to improve your game!
1. Take the scores from the last five rounds (18 holes each) that you played.
2. Look up the rating and slope for the course that you played for each of these scores. This information is usually printed on the scorecard, although you can also get the rating and slope by calling the course.
3. Subtract the course rating from the score you earned on that course.
4. Multiply that number by 113.
5. Divide that number by the slope of the course. This number is the differential.
6. Take the lowest of your five differentials and multiply it by 0.96, and you have your handicap.
What is Golf Proficiency Certificate ?
What is Golf Proficiency Certificate ?
The possession of a proficiency certificate (PC) is a prerequisite for anyone to play on Singapore courses to ensure that the golfer has an understanding and knowledge of skills, etiquette and rules in order to appreciate and enjoy the game with confidence, care and consideration for self and others on the course.
What's Covered in PC Testing ?
Participants will be required to sit for a theory and practical test.
Theory Test :
A written test will b given in the classroom at the beginning of the session. This test will focus on the following three sections:
a) Terminology
b) Etiquette
c) Basic rules
Practical Test :
Participants must be able to demonstrate successfully the following skills with correct technique. Each will be give a maximum of three tries.
a) Hit a minimum distance of 100m (Men) 50m (ladies & juniors under 12 yrs)
b) Chipping to Green
c) Bunker shots
d) Putting from 3m into a hole with 2 stokes.
The possession of a proficiency certificate (PC) is a prerequisite for anyone to play on Singapore courses to ensure that the golfer has an understanding and knowledge of skills, etiquette and rules in order to appreciate and enjoy the game with confidence, care and consideration for self and others on the course.
What's Covered in PC Testing ?
Participants will be required to sit for a theory and practical test.
Theory Test :
A written test will b given in the classroom at the beginning of the session. This test will focus on the following three sections:
a) Terminology
b) Etiquette
c) Basic rules
Practical Test :
Participants must be able to demonstrate successfully the following skills with correct technique. Each will be give a maximum of three tries.
a) Hit a minimum distance of 100m (Men) 50m (ladies & juniors under 12 yrs)
b) Chipping to Green
c) Bunker shots
d) Putting from 3m into a hole with 2 stokes.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
3 Key Elements to a Golf Specific Fitness Program
Many of the top touring professionals know that winning on the tour today takes much more than a great game of golf. It means understanding every aspect of their physical and mental being and what factors influence their performance. Gain a competitive edge in your next round by integrating these three key elements into your current fitness program.
Specific to golf – Get rid of the traditional gym machines which focus on isolating specific muscle groups and require no stabilization work by additional muscle groups. Integrate some old and new fitness tools which allow you to move your body in a more functional setting. These include cable machines, fitness balls, medicine balls, balance disks, traditional dumbbells and don’t forget about the power of using your own bodyweight.
Increase Core Stability – More efficient movement creates more efficient power. Golfers maintain an athletic posture over long periods of time and require both trunk and core stabilization and endurance. By increasing your strength and endurance in the core region of your body, you provide both a solid base of support for rotation in addition to the proper transfer of power throughout the body.
Vary your Planes of Motion during Exercise - A golf fitness program will have varying planes of motion as part of your weekly strength routine. Planes of movement include front to back motions, left to right and rotational exercises. Some good examples include multi-directional lunges and medicine ball wood chops.
Specific to golf – Get rid of the traditional gym machines which focus on isolating specific muscle groups and require no stabilization work by additional muscle groups. Integrate some old and new fitness tools which allow you to move your body in a more functional setting. These include cable machines, fitness balls, medicine balls, balance disks, traditional dumbbells and don’t forget about the power of using your own bodyweight.
Increase Core Stability – More efficient movement creates more efficient power. Golfers maintain an athletic posture over long periods of time and require both trunk and core stabilization and endurance. By increasing your strength and endurance in the core region of your body, you provide both a solid base of support for rotation in addition to the proper transfer of power throughout the body.
Vary your Planes of Motion during Exercise - A golf fitness program will have varying planes of motion as part of your weekly strength routine. Planes of movement include front to back motions, left to right and rotational exercises. Some good examples include multi-directional lunges and medicine ball wood chops.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
2 Basic Steps to Improving Your Golf Swing
The game of golf is truly an individual sport. The basics are the same for everyone; however, due to the differences in people’s body types no two people will ever have the same golf swing. Each person will have to adapt their bodies to perform a proper golf swing in their own way. Taking the time to develop your own method of playing golf will greatly improve your enjoyment and success at the game. Practicing the basic fundamentals of the game until they are ingrained in your muscles will lead to confidence on the course, and that confidence will lead to success and enjoyment of the game.
One of the most basic steps that you can put into action and see an immediate improvement to your golf swing is to keep your head still and look straight at the ball. The position of your head should be straight in line with your spine, and your nose should be raised up a bit so that when you start to swing, your left shoulder fits under your chin. Many players tuck their heads into their chests to try and keep their heads still and look straight down at the golf ball. Unfortunately, they cannot perform a proper golf swing while in this position.
If you are one of the many that are having difficulty keeping your head straight and an eye on the ball try the following. The next time you approach the ball, assume the correct stance with your feet and knees in position but keep your head and back straight, bend forward slightly at the waist and look straight at the ball. If you try and take a swing in this position, your left shoulder will most likely hit your chin. While keeping your eyes on the ball, raise your head slowly until your left shoulder does not hit your chin. Make sure that your head does not move from side to side by keeping your eyes fixed on the ball. Slowly go through the backswing and downswing portions of your golf swing. Do not hit the ball and do the follow through. Practice this portion of your golf swing focusing on keeping your head straight and eyes on the ball.
Practice this exercise in your backyard for about 25 times in a row and then take a break and relax a bit, then start again. Make minor corrections to your head and body position as needed to keep your eyes straight on the ball and your left shoulder from hitting your chin. This exercise will "train" your body, and your muscles will "remember" the correct position you need to be in to perform the movement correctly. Think about any sports athlete, they train and train to place their bodies in the correct stance and position to properly execute the movements necessary to be successful in their particular sport. You are doing the same thing by "training" your body to keep your head straight and position itself so that you can successfully execute a proper golf swing.
Another basic step that can work greatly towards improving your golf swing is to relax. I know it is easier said then done, especially when you are getting ready to put all your power into drive with an audience of either your co-workers, or better still your friends who will not let you forget it if you mess up. However, relaxing your muscles will help you to maintain the proper balance that is important to a great golf swing. Regardless of the golf clubs you use, your balance is the primary foundation of your golf swing, and the way to achieve good balance is to practice. A good way to practice improving your balance is to assume the address position with your club, relax your body and try holding it there for about 30 seconds. Does it feel like you have more weight on one foot or the other? Is one part of your body more tense then another?
Keeping your head straight and maintaining good balance are just two basic parts of a great golf swing. The exercises given above are just two ways that you can start training now to improve your golf swing. You can work on either one separately, or combine them together into one exercise. Improving your golf swing begins and ends with you. Training the muscles of your body to properly perform specific movements takes time and practice. The effort spent improving your golf swing will pay off on the course. Through exercise and practice, you will be able to slip into the proper address position and perform an effortless, powerful golf swing and feel just as if you were sliding your hand into a warm soft glove.
One of the most basic steps that you can put into action and see an immediate improvement to your golf swing is to keep your head still and look straight at the ball. The position of your head should be straight in line with your spine, and your nose should be raised up a bit so that when you start to swing, your left shoulder fits under your chin. Many players tuck their heads into their chests to try and keep their heads still and look straight down at the golf ball. Unfortunately, they cannot perform a proper golf swing while in this position.
If you are one of the many that are having difficulty keeping your head straight and an eye on the ball try the following. The next time you approach the ball, assume the correct stance with your feet and knees in position but keep your head and back straight, bend forward slightly at the waist and look straight at the ball. If you try and take a swing in this position, your left shoulder will most likely hit your chin. While keeping your eyes on the ball, raise your head slowly until your left shoulder does not hit your chin. Make sure that your head does not move from side to side by keeping your eyes fixed on the ball. Slowly go through the backswing and downswing portions of your golf swing. Do not hit the ball and do the follow through. Practice this portion of your golf swing focusing on keeping your head straight and eyes on the ball.
Practice this exercise in your backyard for about 25 times in a row and then take a break and relax a bit, then start again. Make minor corrections to your head and body position as needed to keep your eyes straight on the ball and your left shoulder from hitting your chin. This exercise will "train" your body, and your muscles will "remember" the correct position you need to be in to perform the movement correctly. Think about any sports athlete, they train and train to place their bodies in the correct stance and position to properly execute the movements necessary to be successful in their particular sport. You are doing the same thing by "training" your body to keep your head straight and position itself so that you can successfully execute a proper golf swing.
Another basic step that can work greatly towards improving your golf swing is to relax. I know it is easier said then done, especially when you are getting ready to put all your power into drive with an audience of either your co-workers, or better still your friends who will not let you forget it if you mess up. However, relaxing your muscles will help you to maintain the proper balance that is important to a great golf swing. Regardless of the golf clubs you use, your balance is the primary foundation of your golf swing, and the way to achieve good balance is to practice. A good way to practice improving your balance is to assume the address position with your club, relax your body and try holding it there for about 30 seconds. Does it feel like you have more weight on one foot or the other? Is one part of your body more tense then another?
Keeping your head straight and maintaining good balance are just two basic parts of a great golf swing. The exercises given above are just two ways that you can start training now to improve your golf swing. You can work on either one separately, or combine them together into one exercise. Improving your golf swing begins and ends with you. Training the muscles of your body to properly perform specific movements takes time and practice. The effort spent improving your golf swing will pay off on the course. Through exercise and practice, you will be able to slip into the proper address position and perform an effortless, powerful golf swing and feel just as if you were sliding your hand into a warm soft glove.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Learn about Putters
Putting is the most precise aspect of the game of golf. The putter must be designed to give the golfer every technical advantage including smooth stroke, good glide, sweet impact, and bounce-less topspin ball launch as well as every technique advantage including perfect fit as to shaft angle and length.
Putters usually have a loft of 5° but cannot be more than 10°. The putter is the only club that may have a grip that is not perfectly round; "shield"-like cross-sections with a flat top and curved underside are most common. The putter is also the only club allowed to have a bent shaft; often, clubmakers will attach the shaft to the clubhead on the near edge for visibility, but to increase stability, the shaft is bent near the clubhead mounting so that its lie and the resulting clubhead position places the line of the straight part of the shaft at the sweet spot, where the ball should be for the best putt. This increases accuracy as the golfer can direct their swing through the ball, without feeling like they are slightly behind it.
The design of the putter's clubhead has undergone radical change in the last 20–30 years, as have many club types. The putter was originally a forged iron piece very similar in shape to the irons of the day. Through attempts to lower the center of gravity of the clubhead, it evolved into a shorter, thicker head slightly curved from front to rear (the so-called "hot dog" putter). The introduction of investment casting for club heads allowed drastically different shapes to be made far more easily and cheaply than with forging, resulting in several design improvements. First of all, the majority of mass behind the clubface was placed as low as possible, resulting in an L-shaped side profile with a thin, flat clubface and another thin block along the bottom of the club behind the face. Additionally, peripheral weighting, or the placing of mass as far away from the center of the clubface as possible, increases the moment of inertia of the clubhead, reducing twisting if the club contacts the ball slightly off-center and thus giving the club a larger "sweet spot" with which to contact the ball. Newer innovations include replacing the metal at the "sweet spot" with a softer polymer compound that will give and rebound at impact, which increases the peak impulse (force per millisecond) imparted to the ball for better distance. Putters are subdivided into mallet, peripheral weighted and blade styles. Power adjustability and practice/play convertibility are features embodied in the latest putter design technology.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Learn about Wood
Woods are so called because, traditionally, they had a club head that was made from hardwood, generally persimmon[1] but modern clubs have heads made from metal, for example titanium, or composite materials, such as carbon fiber. Some golf enthusiasts refer to these as "metals" or "metal woods" but this change in terminology is not strictly necessary, because while the material has changed, the style and intended use has not. The change to stronger materials has allowed the design of the modern woods to incorporate significantly larger heads than in the past. Because of the increase in club head size, in 2004 the USGA created a new stipulation for the size of the club head. The legal maximum (by the rules of golf) of a wood is 460 cubic centimeters[2].
Woods are numbered in ascending order with the driver, or 1-wood, which is designed to hit the ball the greatest distance, having the longest length and lowest loft, typically between 7 and 13 degrees. However there is no industry standard and some overlap occurs. With the typical loft of a 2-wood being 12-13o a 1-wood and 2-wood could have the same loft. Other differences in club design, such as head size, face roll, weight distribution, lie angle, or club length, could also differentiate a 12o 1-wood intended for tee shots and a 12o 2-wood intended for fairway shots. Most club manufacturers’ matched sets include 1-3-5 numbered wood. Even numbers are less common with modern clubs. The number of the club is mainly a reference for the player to easily identify the clubs. Other identifiers have been utilized such as strong and plus to differentiate various lofts within a line of clubs.
Woods generally fall into two classes, drivers and fairway woods, with a traditional set of 14 clubs comprising a driver, two fairway woods (3 and 5), ten irons and a putter[2]. Many modern sets tend to include hybrid clubs, which combine some of the characteristics of a wood and an iron, to replace the 5 wood and longer (3 and 4) irons.
With metal (usually steel), the designer can easily make the clubhead larger or smaller, add runners to the sole, or build out the toe--all in an effort to make the club perform better. In other words, to help you hit the ball straighter and with more confidence. Steel also has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than wood, allowing the club maker to use less material without sacrificing strength. The result is a lighter, easier-to-swing clubhead. Also, to help the club perform better and be more forgiving, weight is moved to the perimeter of the clubhead to help it square at impact and be more stable on off-center hits.
adapted from learnaboutgolf.com and wikipedia
Friday, March 12, 2010
Learn about Iron
Irons are golf clubs with a flat angled face and a shorter shaft than a wood, designed for shots approaching the green or from more difficult lies such as the rough, through or over trees, or the base of hills. As with woods, "irons" get their name because they were originally made from forged iron. High-loft irons are called wedges. The higher the number gets on the scale, the lower amount of angle difference from 90 degrees. Irons are often hybrid, cavity-back or muscle-back. A hybrid is any iron that features a head very similar to a fairway wood; hollow steel or titanium with a shallow, slightly convex face. A hybrid head is usually marginally shallower and does not extend backwards from the face as far as a comparable fairway wood. A Cavity-back iron is any iron in which a small to large amount of the metal across the back of the head is removed, allowing that weight to be re-positioned on the perimeter of the head, farther away from the head's center of gravity. A muscle-back iron is any iron in which there is no cavity on the back of the head, i.e., the weight is more evenly distributed across the back of the clubhead.Wedges are irons with a higher loft than a 9 iron, which is typically lofted at about 42 degrees. Wedges are used for a variety of short-distance, high-altitude, high-accuracy shots such as hitting the ball onto the green ("approach" shots), placing the ball accurately on the fairway for a better shot at the green ("lay-up" shots), or hitting the ball out of hazards or rough onto the green (chipping). There are usually six types of wedges with lofts ranging from 45° to 64°: pitching wedge (PW 48°), gap wedge (GW 52°), sand wedge (SW 56°), lob wedge (LW 60°), and ultra lob wedge (LW 64°)[1]. The pitching wedge is sometimes called or labeled as a 10 iron, and the gap wedge is sometimes called an approach wedge or Utility Wedge and labeled with AW or UW respectively
adapted from wikipedia
Monday, March 1, 2010
Learn About Hybrid
Features you will find on the hybrid are:
•Flatness of the face on the hybrid wood. Woods have a curve on the face but the hybrids are flat just like an iron.
•Weighting that is distributed throughout the club like an iron or fairway wood. Most woods have the focus of the weight distributed towards the front.
•A wide sole like a fairway wood, with a club length similar to an iron rather than a wood
The main idea behind the hybrid wood is to be interchangeable and utilize the characteristics of both an iron and a wood. The resultant club is typically easier to hit with less effort than a traditional long and lower lofted iron. The term “long iron” normally describes all the clubs from a two iron through five.
There are multiple reasons why many recreational golfers struggle with long iron shots and the goal of the hybrid wood is to make it easier for you. The most common problems are:
•Not being able to make a complete shoulder turn on the backswing.
•Swinging too hard and throwing off tempo.
•Lower lofted clubs are harder to hit.
Adapted from wikipedia and learnaboutgolf.com
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Singapore Golf supports Tiger Woods
Singapore Golf supports Tiger Woods and welcome his return back to the golfing scene.
Begay 'choked up' by Woods statement
Begay 'choked up' by Woods statement
One of the people Tiger Woods hugged after giving the most difficult speech of his life said he had never seen the world number one so emotional.
"It's a little bit harder than making a swing change," said fellow player Notah Begay, a close friend of Woods since his college days in California.
Begay pulled out of the US Tour event in Mexico to be present and admitted he got "choked up" listening.
The longest embrace was with his Thai mother Kultida and she agreed to speak afterwards as well, saying her son had a "good heart and good soul" but had made a mistake.
She said: "Some of media, especially tabloid, hurt my son bad. He didn't do anything illegal. He didn't kill anybody. But he try to improve himself. He will come out stronger and a better person."
Some sponsors have already dropped or distanced themselves from Woods, but club and clothing manufacturer Nike said in a statement: "Tiger has apologised and made his position clear. Nike fully supports him and his family. We look forward to him returning to golf."
Video company EA Sports president Peter Moore commented: "It was good to see Tiger address the public and we're supportive of his focus toward family and rebuilding his life."
After initial critical comments from players, most notably Ernie Els, about the timing of the statement in the middle of a big event in Arizona, there was a more supportive reaction there on Friday.
"Hopefully he will get everything sorted and I'll welcome him back with open arms," said Sergio Garcia.
Open champion Stewart Cink added: "I was moved by how difficult it seemed to be for him. It sounds like it's part of the recovery or the healing process that he has to go through."
Copyright © 2010 The Press Association. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
The Ultimate 101 Guide to Beginner Golf
If you are a complete beginner or novice to golf, this article will definitely lead you to a place where starting and taking the first step becomes easy. Many golfers who have great potential fail to progress and for some that entails even making the greens. They key to having a fantastic golf career either professional or leisure is to overcome the inertia to transcend to the next level from the previous. With some expert, informative and useful advice, that step becomes all the easier.
The foundational steps of golf involves balance, power and driving, addressing the ball, grip, and finally putting (shot techniques will be covered in a different article). Below are these steps elucidated in more detail:
Balance:
For a golf swing that maintains consistency and power, balance is the primary underlying element which must be maintained throughout the entire swinging motion. The first step is to position one's posture such that the centre of gravity is centred over the ball. Subsequently, one's feet should be apart as far as the shoulder's width with a slight bend at the hip area (hip tilt of about 30 degrees or one "o'clock" upper torso position) with rear protruding a little; knees at this point should be mildly locked. Next, both hands should grip the club in such a way that they are in line with one's chin and this should all culminate in natural distribution of weight over the golf ball. The bend is one of the most crucial components of the balance position. One should not feel as though he/she is "sitting" comfortably which would imply the shifting of bodyweight towards the heels of the feet. The latter would stiffen one's body rendering flexibility impossible with the subsequent swing inevitably be wayward.
At the time of impact, approximately seventy five percent of one's weight should be transferred onto the leading foot (ie left foot for right handers and vice versa). One's head must be behind the ball and hips should be c 10cm forward vis-a-vis the initial position. Consequently, the spine is tilted to double that of the starting stance. Post impact, following the gradual motion of the body, weight shift should naturally flow back towards the heel.
Power and Driving:
The greatest problem faced by beginner golfers in driving the golf ball is that of power. Below are some pointers and steps to follow and check to ensure a great dynamic drive-through:
- Making sure the ball is not teed-up to low. This has become more of a problem of late because the contact surface of drivers (especially iron 1) have pronouncedly increased. This results in greater difficulty in locating the sweet-spot which in relative terms have shrunk. As an approximation, the ball should be teed such that the top half of the golf ball is above the club face when the club is in a stationary position on the ground. This would ensure that the contact point is on the centre of the club head. Evidently the larger club head, the higher the tee.
- Making sure one's hands are not position too closely to the body in the starting position. This mistake would invariably produce a smaller arc in terms of backswing and follow-through. The key is not reach-in slightly and not to overdo it; this is easier said than done and requires practice because the natural tendency for beginners is too hang one's hangs inward for security and comfort. Following the circumference of the semi-circle driving motion will generate quicker and more powerful drives then a path trending across the diameter of the motion-arc.
- Many beginners lift their front foot on the backswing. This inadvertently leads to a counter-productive weight shift to the front of the backswing resulting in a hook or shank nine times out of ten instead of a drive. One's front foot should be firmly anchored to the ground on backswing forcing the hip and shoulder to turn in s spring-like fashion releasing great power. One's weight should be shifted to the backside post impact.
- Accompanying the tee is the ball position. Setting the ball too far back or front would lead to premature contact on the down swing or delayed impact of the golf club after traversing the mid point below the golfer's chin. It will be near an impossible task to hit a good drive if the above occurs. A perfect position would be the ball equidistant from both feet.
- Lastly, confidence and mental approach to a drive is vital for beginners. Every single shot should be hit with full believe that the drive would go the distance and not stop short of its intended target.
Addressing the golf ball
- Ball addressing entails contacting the ball so the square of one's club head is exactly perpendicular to the ball on impact. The same swing applies regardless of whether one is on the driving range, tee or fairway; this applies for all woods and irons from 2 through to 9.
The tip post following the steps above is to keep one's head down and one's eye on the spot where the ball sits. One's head should be in this position throughout the swing. Head lifting and movements during the swing or looking up as the club hits the ball would pull one's body out of alignment making it almost impossible to hit the ball squarely.
The Golf Grip
is one's only means of connecting with the club. A sound grip is half the battle won in regards to generating power and accuracy. Wrist swerve is then the main power source and a common mistake by beginners is to grip the club more in the palm than through the fingers. Using our sensitive fingers increases wrist hinging and this produces better tee shots and puts.
One other common error amongst even the most experienced golfers is a flimsy lead-hand (left for right-handers) grip concentrated in the palm. Consequently, the golf ball is sliced rather than hit. Here are some check points:
- the club should be held a lot more by the fingers than the palm.
- the golf club should be resting on the base of the little finger and contact the index finger just above the first joint.
- Post positioning the club on the fingers, one's thumb should be parallel (in touch and pointing outwards toward the club face) to the shaft of the club.
- Finally, the knuckles of the index and middle fingers should be visible when looking from the top onto the lead hand. There should also be a "V" shape created by the thumb and index forefinger of the lead hand with its tip directing toward the other hand and shoulder.
Putting
This is the finest and most intricate part about golf play and involves finally coaxing the ball into the golf hole. In a sentence, putting is all about feel and touch. That said, putting is also a little more innovative in respect to the golfer compared with any other shot. There are innumerable styles of putting because whatever consistently puts is whatever works for the individual. The process is much less important in this part of the game.
By and large though, general principles are as follows:
- Putters should be ultra comfortable in terms of length and lie angle
- Gripping during putting should be slightly different compared to driving, chipping, slicing or teeing. The golf club should usually sit in the hollow of the palm of the lead hand with the thumb of the other resting across (as opposed to straight) the shaft.
- Ball position should be towards the forward heel with toes parallel to the target hole. One's eyes should be over the ball in order to aim and ascertain accurately the line of sight in alignment with the putt.
- Judging the putter path is something which is very hard to teach and narrate. However, one that travels a little inside on the back stroke and then down the line on the forward motion usually works wonder. On the backstroke, one has to ensure that the putter face remains square and does not fray wide open.
- Post putting with the non-lead hand, revert to putting practice using both hands however making strokes with grip pressure mainly on the non-lead palm.
The preliminary steps above should be able to get any rookie up and running at least onto the range and short game...the rest comes with heaps and heaps of club time always keeping the fundamental rules in mind.
Thomas is an avid golf fan through and through and has been enjoying the game for more than 12 years. Visit http://www.tipsongolf.org for expansive resources on the game for golfers at all levels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Kong_Kar_Wai
The foundational steps of golf involves balance, power and driving, addressing the ball, grip, and finally putting (shot techniques will be covered in a different article). Below are these steps elucidated in more detail:
Balance:
For a golf swing that maintains consistency and power, balance is the primary underlying element which must be maintained throughout the entire swinging motion. The first step is to position one's posture such that the centre of gravity is centred over the ball. Subsequently, one's feet should be apart as far as the shoulder's width with a slight bend at the hip area (hip tilt of about 30 degrees or one "o'clock" upper torso position) with rear protruding a little; knees at this point should be mildly locked. Next, both hands should grip the club in such a way that they are in line with one's chin and this should all culminate in natural distribution of weight over the golf ball. The bend is one of the most crucial components of the balance position. One should not feel as though he/she is "sitting" comfortably which would imply the shifting of bodyweight towards the heels of the feet. The latter would stiffen one's body rendering flexibility impossible with the subsequent swing inevitably be wayward.
At the time of impact, approximately seventy five percent of one's weight should be transferred onto the leading foot (ie left foot for right handers and vice versa). One's head must be behind the ball and hips should be c 10cm forward vis-a-vis the initial position. Consequently, the spine is tilted to double that of the starting stance. Post impact, following the gradual motion of the body, weight shift should naturally flow back towards the heel.
Power and Driving:
The greatest problem faced by beginner golfers in driving the golf ball is that of power. Below are some pointers and steps to follow and check to ensure a great dynamic drive-through:
- Making sure the ball is not teed-up to low. This has become more of a problem of late because the contact surface of drivers (especially iron 1) have pronouncedly increased. This results in greater difficulty in locating the sweet-spot which in relative terms have shrunk. As an approximation, the ball should be teed such that the top half of the golf ball is above the club face when the club is in a stationary position on the ground. This would ensure that the contact point is on the centre of the club head. Evidently the larger club head, the higher the tee.
- Making sure one's hands are not position too closely to the body in the starting position. This mistake would invariably produce a smaller arc in terms of backswing and follow-through. The key is not reach-in slightly and not to overdo it; this is easier said than done and requires practice because the natural tendency for beginners is too hang one's hangs inward for security and comfort. Following the circumference of the semi-circle driving motion will generate quicker and more powerful drives then a path trending across the diameter of the motion-arc.
- Many beginners lift their front foot on the backswing. This inadvertently leads to a counter-productive weight shift to the front of the backswing resulting in a hook or shank nine times out of ten instead of a drive. One's front foot should be firmly anchored to the ground on backswing forcing the hip and shoulder to turn in s spring-like fashion releasing great power. One's weight should be shifted to the backside post impact.
- Accompanying the tee is the ball position. Setting the ball too far back or front would lead to premature contact on the down swing or delayed impact of the golf club after traversing the mid point below the golfer's chin. It will be near an impossible task to hit a good drive if the above occurs. A perfect position would be the ball equidistant from both feet.
- Lastly, confidence and mental approach to a drive is vital for beginners. Every single shot should be hit with full believe that the drive would go the distance and not stop short of its intended target.
Addressing the golf ball
- Ball addressing entails contacting the ball so the square of one's club head is exactly perpendicular to the ball on impact. The same swing applies regardless of whether one is on the driving range, tee or fairway; this applies for all woods and irons from 2 through to 9.
The tip post following the steps above is to keep one's head down and one's eye on the spot where the ball sits. One's head should be in this position throughout the swing. Head lifting and movements during the swing or looking up as the club hits the ball would pull one's body out of alignment making it almost impossible to hit the ball squarely.
The Golf Grip
is one's only means of connecting with the club. A sound grip is half the battle won in regards to generating power and accuracy. Wrist swerve is then the main power source and a common mistake by beginners is to grip the club more in the palm than through the fingers. Using our sensitive fingers increases wrist hinging and this produces better tee shots and puts.
One other common error amongst even the most experienced golfers is a flimsy lead-hand (left for right-handers) grip concentrated in the palm. Consequently, the golf ball is sliced rather than hit. Here are some check points:
- the club should be held a lot more by the fingers than the palm.
- the golf club should be resting on the base of the little finger and contact the index finger just above the first joint.
- Post positioning the club on the fingers, one's thumb should be parallel (in touch and pointing outwards toward the club face) to the shaft of the club.
- Finally, the knuckles of the index and middle fingers should be visible when looking from the top onto the lead hand. There should also be a "V" shape created by the thumb and index forefinger of the lead hand with its tip directing toward the other hand and shoulder.
Putting
This is the finest and most intricate part about golf play and involves finally coaxing the ball into the golf hole. In a sentence, putting is all about feel and touch. That said, putting is also a little more innovative in respect to the golfer compared with any other shot. There are innumerable styles of putting because whatever consistently puts is whatever works for the individual. The process is much less important in this part of the game.
By and large though, general principles are as follows:
- Putters should be ultra comfortable in terms of length and lie angle
- Gripping during putting should be slightly different compared to driving, chipping, slicing or teeing. The golf club should usually sit in the hollow of the palm of the lead hand with the thumb of the other resting across (as opposed to straight) the shaft.
- Ball position should be towards the forward heel with toes parallel to the target hole. One's eyes should be over the ball in order to aim and ascertain accurately the line of sight in alignment with the putt.
- Judging the putter path is something which is very hard to teach and narrate. However, one that travels a little inside on the back stroke and then down the line on the forward motion usually works wonder. On the backstroke, one has to ensure that the putter face remains square and does not fray wide open.
- Post putting with the non-lead hand, revert to putting practice using both hands however making strokes with grip pressure mainly on the non-lead palm.
The preliminary steps above should be able to get any rookie up and running at least onto the range and short game...the rest comes with heaps and heaps of club time always keeping the fundamental rules in mind.
Thomas is an avid golf fan through and through and has been enjoying the game for more than 12 years. Visit http://www.tipsongolf.org for expansive resources on the game for golfers at all levels.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Kong_Kar_Wai
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