W L
GOLF
GET GOLF READY
BY TOM ATKINSON , PGA GOLF PROFESSIONAL
So golfers , I hope the withdrawal symptoms aren ’ t too bad , we are nearly there , surely not long now until we are back out on the course and the range .
Golf is not necessarily like other sports , or like riding a bike , even the best in the world will need time to get back into the swing of things , this month I will help you to ease yourself back in so that you can hit the ground running once those medals start
Although you ’ ll be raring to whip the head cover off your big dog on the first tee you could do with some prior preparation , albeit in your garden or on the beach around the north west coast . Start with short shots to reacclimatise your body . When returning from a long layoff from golf the priority should be getting your full swing and solid contact back intact while avoiding injury . Be sure to warm up by stretching or taking practice swings to remind your body which muscles it ’ s going to be using ( last month ' s article has some stretches to help ).
Once you ' re ready to start swinging , begin with a shorter club and a half or three quarter swing . Then as you loosen up , start graduating to a full swing and work your way up through your longer clubs . This is the best practice on the range generally , the opposite to what you would do on the course
You need to manage your expectations when you play golf . This return from lockdown may be just the ticket as you probably aren ’ t expecting much . Practice patience when returning to the course and enjoy your good shots . A good attitude towards your game will go ten times further than any analytical practice session .
Between the winter we ' ve had and Covid-19 it has been an extended unwelcome break for a lot of golfers , enjoy the walk , the fresh air , and whoever you ’ re lucky enough to be playing with .
Is your equipment ready ? A Tour pro will typically change their grips every six weeks , some do it before every tournament , it makes such a difference . Have a look at yours , I bet they ' re well overdue .
Check your spikes - traction and stability are two key elements to consistency , new spikes would be a great idea before you tee off .
Finally have a look through your ball stash , it ' s not essential to play with the most expensive ones of course but a ball that suits your game , or at very least the same ball each time will make all the difference .
Enjoy your return to the course , I hope that we will be back playing when next month ' s edition lands .
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