Top Tips to Improve Your Golfing Handicap

Not all of us are blessed with the masterful swing of a PGA Tour competitor, or the deft touch needed to sink a 20 feet putt. We can't all be Tiger Woods, but we can always improve our game.

Whether you are a weekend golfer at the local 9-hole course, or a serious amateur making a name for yourself amongst the local golfing elite, the importance of a continuous programme of self-improvement is key to staying on top of your game.

It is certain that there is at least one aspect of our game that we aren't satisfied with. Perhaps your swing needs refining, your stance is askew, or your short game has some serious shortcomings. Whatever the problem, the most important thing is that something is done about it. Don't let it become part of your game. Don't let it ruin an otherwise decent ability.

Let's start with some of the more common problems.

The Swing

There is a wealth of information both on and off line pertaining to the improvement of golf swings. Here is a short selection of tips to get you started.

1) Practice – It may sound obvious, but this is the most overlooked and underrated means of improving your swing. Vijay Sing is well-known for his perpetual swinging practice, sometimes refining his swing for 3 or 4 hours at a time.
2) Practice in slow motion – By repeating the swing process in slow motion over and over again, the swing mechanics will be ingrained into your neuromuscular system, and offers a more focused means of understanding the swing process.
3) Keep your head down – Many inexperienced golfers tend to make this mistake, and it is such an easy one to correct. Remember, the head should not be lifted until the follow through.

For many, off course activity can be just as important to ensure a successful round of golf. Psychology plays a big part in this game; having a steady and focused mind is half the battle. Many professionals suggest various psychological processes, from repetitive routines (both on and off the course) to dressing well. The latter is all about breeding confidence and positive emotions.

Here are a selection of psychological tips to help you on the course.

1) Use a pre-shot routine – this can be anything from swinging the club a certain number of times to tilting the club forward slightly. This familiarity helps to settle nerves and trigger neuromuscular memories.
2) With such significance placed on relaxation and focus, mixing holiday with golf can be a great way to practice in complete serenity, and with no pressure to perform. With a fantastic selection of golf courses in Cyprus, Spain, Italy and elsewhere, there are plenty of options for a warm and relaxing golfing holiday to allow you to focus on honing your golfing skills.

Whilst there are numerous suggestions and attitudes towards the most effective golfing methods, it is certain that two of the most important aspects of golfing success are practice and psychology. If you put in the hours, and keep a clear mind, you are sure to lower that handicap.