For hundreds of years, many have claimed to have discovered the “secret of golf”. A number of these claims are based upon intensive research; others are simply sales pitches to entice the hapless, novice golfer into buying books, tapes or golf practice equipment. The question for many golfers has often been “is there a secret to golf?” The answer to this question is a qualified; “maybe”. The game of golf has 2 very interrelated, critical pieces, each of which are necessary to improving and playing well. These are the biomechanics of the golf swing and the mental sides of playing the game.
The great golfing legend, Ben Hogan was once asked; “What is the hidden key to golf.” Mr. Hogan replied: “The secret is in the dirt”. He meant, of course, that hard work on the golf practice range is where one can improve and perfect technique in order to hit the ball well and score low.
His reply addresses the biomechanics of the golf swing; learning how to swing the club correctly. Another golf great, Arnold Palmer once commented that “90% of golf is played from the shoulders up”, meaning that one has to use clear thinking to play the game well. This, of course addresses the mental sides of the game.
Combining both correct biomechanics and mental approaches to the game makes provisions for a controlled golf swing. There are many swing techniques one can successfully employ to properly strike a golf ball. The one common denominator all of them use is balance.
Watch any pro golfer and while you will see many differing types of swings, but all of them swing in balance, very similar to a gymnast or dancer. It’s the most critical biomechanical part of the swing. If you can learn a balanced golfing swing, you can learn to hit the ball well. A good mental approach simply requires the ability to concentrate and not to try golf shots you physically can’t hit.
For more info on golf training aids or golf practice equipment visit T2hole.com where you will find useful golfing training resources.