SKILL MASTERY
When a player has the motion and skills needed to per-
form the multitude of shots golf calls for, then they can
start to master those skills. Golf is a game of problem
solving to a large extent. The practice styles should
reflect this in order to create true mastery. The practice
styles in this period are based on creating a lasting learn-
ing in the player by making practice more game-like and
introducing stress and challenge points to simulate actual
play. Creating desirable difficulties to challenge the player
to practice the art of problem solving in practice is how
deep learning takes place.
1. Block
Ball after ball
from one spot
2. Random
Different clubs,
targets and lies
each shot
4. Constraint
Having pressure
applied through
penalties or
constraints
Practicing the new technical skills in a
‘game-like way’ is the bridge from the
range to the course and great scores.
3. Interleaving
Interlacing
different practice
styles with
each other
5. Competitive
Interpersonal
competitive
practice
The reality of practicing golf is that most of the traditional
ways to practice, namely Block practice, are counter-
productive and a waste of time if done as the only way a
player practices. Block practice is fine during a technical
change, but in order to be able to transfer that skill, the
player needs to alter approach. A periodized schedule
helps as the player moves from technical to blending to
competitive and then on to rest and evaluation. There
are many types of practice in that framework as a player
shifts gears.
ADMISSIONS
ADMISSIONS GUIDE
GUIDE
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