The
Strategy – “Seeing” The Shot In Your Mind’s Eye
The
Purpose – Improving Your Shotmaking Performance
“One of the real difference makers between good players
and the rest is imagination – their ability to visualize shots. Being able to see the shot is
everything. Your athletic ability
will come out so much more when you play visually.”
– Tom Kite - 1992 U.S. Open Champion
As vital as using your visual senses are to your
shotmaking performance, there is no one “best” way to visualize a
shot. Even the greats like Annika
and Tiger describe it differently as you’ll see at the bottom right of this
page.
All players have to experiment to find out what works
best for them, and the more you practice your visualization skills, the
stronger they’ll become. Experiment
with the strategies below to strengthen your visualization skills.
·
Describe The Shot In
Words
Describe the shot you’re about to play either verbally
or mentally to yourself. This takes
just a second and you’ll find it virtually impossible to describe the shot
in words and not form a visual image of the shot at the same time. The more you practice this on the range,
the more it will help you on the course.
·
Personal Highlight
Video
Develop a “highlight video” of yourself playing great
shots and making great putts –
-
see yourself making a
great swing or putting stroke
-
experience the
unmistakable feel of solid impact
-
watch the ball go to the
target
-
experience the positive
emotions great shots produce.
Using the “highlight video”
strategy is particularly helpful when you’re struggling with your
game. By focusing on such a
positive image, even for just a moment, there’s a good chance your
mind and body will respond with a more confident swing.”
