Page 22 - ESCARPMENT MAGAZINE | Spring 2013

22 Escarpment Magazine Spring 2013
ESCARPMENT GOLF | what’s new on the greens
GOLFESCARPMENT
WHAT’S NEW
ON THE GREENS
Practice Routine - As with any type of goals we set for ourselves it is always a good idea to
have an agenda to help us with our objectives. Goals relating to our golf game should be
treated the same way. To achieve these goals it is important to take the time to practice. For
effective practice sessions it’s really good to get into a consistent practice routine. If we practice
consistency, we are essentially training ourselves to achieve consistency while playing. Here is
an example of a solid practice routine for the beginner, intermediate or advanced player:
8-12 balls with either Sand Wedge, Pitching Wedge, or 9 Iron
8-12 balls with either 8 Iron, 7 Iron, or 6 Iron
8-12 balls with either 5 Iron, 4 Iron, or 3 Iron
8-12 balls with a Wood or Driver
6-10 balls with any mid Iron
To finish hit 6-10 balls with either Sand Wedge or Pitching Wedge
This routine can be altered based on the time available for practice. Regardless, it is key to
start any type of practice routine with a higher lofted club, such as a wedge or a 9 iron. A
higher lofted club will get the ball up in the air instantly without having to swing the club too
aggressively. This builds confidence in the beginner and the intermediate golfer, while the more
advanced players establish their swing tempo.
If you’re really pressed for time and only have a few minutes before you take the tee, it’s really
beneficial to practice a few chips around the practice green. The reason behind this is because
a chip will help you establish your tempo for the day: an easy take away — followed by an accel-
erated swing through the ball. This quick warm-up will also help the player determine how fast or
slow the greens are rolling for that day. |E|
Practice Consistency to Play Consistently!
BY SARAH JANE HORNES
LPGA Professional