Systems

Rob Rashell
Director of Instruction
TPC Scottsdale
Scottsdale, AZ
http://www.robrashell.com 
robrashell@pgatourtpc.com

More Information

One of the challenges of making a change in your golf swing is embracing the new feel or change and being able to use this different method on the golf course to shoot lower scores. I’m a big believer in systems or models in life and don’t think things should be any different on the golf course, let me give you an example.

My preferred shot shape is a draw, when I’m practicing I go through a checklist of items to ensure that when I aim square to my intended target, the ball starts just right and curves back to the left, this system has multiple benefits.

Decision making takes time and energy, and when you’re under the stress of time, or other golfers, or playing a tournament, having to make multiple decisions takes energy and focus away from executing your shot, whichever you choose. My system for moving the ball from point A to point B is already in place, I don’t have to think about which way I want to curve the ball, I can choose a target, then work right into my routine for hitting that shot.

I was on a course I hadn’t seen in a long time and some of the holes, I wasn’t sure which direction the hole was moving after the tee shot, how far I could hit my shot, and what club I should use.  These decisions can run some serious intereference on actually picking a target with confidence, not to mention once you’ve decided on a target doing your best to execute the desired shot.

Using a system or a method throughout your game helps with taking away decision making, for chipping, putting, driving, etc. I read an article a while back about the president intentionally wearing only blue or black suits. Taking away the tiny bit of extra energy needed and used for selecting from a wide variety saves mental energy and focus for bigger decisions during the day. Golf is not the same as being the president, although I love the idea or thought of keeping as much mental energy in reserve during a round of golf. Stick to your guns and play a boring round of golf, same curve, same alignment, same method for chipping all will help a great deal in lowering your scores. Develop and use systems that work for you, they will save energy both mentally and physically during the day! Good Luck!