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The "Mind Game"

Golf is not a complicated game to play. Detailed rules are provided. The swing motion seems simple and easily repeatable and in fact it is. However, taking into consideration the physical coordination needed, the mental aspects and the variations in course conditions, golf turns out to be incredibly complex. How the mind performs turns out to be the most important controlling factor round after round.

Although each individual has a different swing, there are certain simple basic concepts which need to be followed. None of these concepts is new but some are counterintuitive. Considerable learning, practice and experience are required for improvement.

In order to control complexity certain routine methods, both mental and physical are usually followed. Each individual has to decide what level of detail works best. Maintaining the right frame of mind is important. Many of the procedures for preparing and executing a shot become habitual and ingrained.

It is important to get the correct motions ingrained in the mind. Although the swing is never "grooved" because of minor adjustments in the shot plan there is too much to think about, not to have most of the swing on automatic pilot.

The golf swing is not linear but consists of rotary motion in several planes i.e. knees, hips, waist, shoulders. The most important element of the swing is the turn. The action of the heavy duty muscles of the thighs and trunk generate the power. Get these working to generate more clubhead speed.

We begin with Preparation, Grip, Planning and Routine. For simplification we have divided the swing into segments beginning with Backswing, ending with the Release and Follow Through.