Perhaps your swing hasn’t been feeling right lately, or you just feel like you need some extra practice, but whatever the case, there’s nothing wrong with getting in some time at the driving range. Spending time practicing is the best way to get comfortable with your swing and brush up on the minute details that can make a big difference out on the course. The driving range is also a wonderful place to practice your mental game as well as your swing so that when you’re out on the course again, you’re even more prepared for that difficult shot. Something to always keep in mind during the game of golf is your mental game. If you are feeling off mentally, it can really disrupt your game out on the course, so while you’re busy taking practice swings, work on how you view your game. Take the time to go through your clubs and feel the difference between each one. Focus your thoughts in an organized and positive way to your mental strength is at its peak while on the course. This is a huge part of any sport, but it’s often overlooked when thinking about the perfect golf game.

Stretch It Out!! It’s very important for your muscles to stretch before you start swinging, whether it’s at the range or at the course because your body will always respond better to practice if it’s loosened up. Take the time to start with smaller swings, and slowly stretch out your muscles. Try just swinging a club back and forth until you feel warmed up enough. Use your remote-control golf caddy to support yourself as you stretch out your leg muscles.

Start Swinging!! After you’ve warmed up, it’s time to work your way through all of your irons. Try starting with your 9 and then continue with your lowest to your highest. Take a variety of shots and you will notice you’ll start to get into a groove. You can always begin with chip shots and then slowly work your way up to take a swing. Taking shots with each one of your irons gives you the opportunity to focus on your swing and realign your stance if necessary. You can watch the way the ball falls, and notice if it’s hooked or not, which will then tell you if you need to adjust the way you are standing. A great drill to try is to pick three different areas of the range and practice hitting the ball there as if it were a hole on the course. Try to get everything right, your stance, your swing, everything. If this is a drill that you can do consistently, it will really start to help your swing motions.

Practice That Putt!! Some people forget how important putting can be. If you’re at the practice range be sure to devote around 15 minutes just to your putting game. We all know that putting can make or break your game, so take the time to practice it, a little bit of practice goes a long way. Routine and consistency are key so make sure you give it the full 15 minutes each time. Try working on your longer putts while you’re at the practice range. Line up 10 balls and try putting them from farther away. You could also try focusing on your technique because that will help with the longer distance putts. With a few reminders, your body will create muscle memory and your putt will become consistent and accurate. So go ahead and make that date with the Driving Range, you’ll be glad you did!

June 15, 2018 — Dick Northrop

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