I recently read this fantastic sports book that uses hard data from various athletic performances to offer a psychological perspective. This is Your Brain on Sports, the science of underdogs, the value of rivalry, and what we can learn from the T-shirt cannon is a quick-read, that drills down to the why-we-do-this, why-we-act-that-way questions, using examples from different sporting events to individual athletic highs and lows.
You may be interested in: why do I want to go play golf when I can't even make a 3-foot putt when it counts? Well, it's called sunk-cost...and this book offers up the why's and what-for's in this feeling that we have when we play this great game of golf, using golf as the example to understand sunk cost.
Every chapter is interesting, funny, and on topic. This is a great book to enhance your conversational golf repertoire, because it is filled with timely stories that describe the behind the scenes from a mental and habitual perspective.
So, please check this book out. I promise, it will not be a sunk-cost use of your time.
Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
Showing posts with label Swing thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Swing thoughts. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Friday, June 12, 2015
Book review: You! A Golf Guru!
Last year, my son and I were at an event, and when we came back to the parking lot.... our car... it had a flat tire.
I immediately went into "Dad" mode...scouring the back pages of my memory to remember how to change a tire. After a half hour of pulling tire-changing tools and manuals out of the car and scattering them on the ground to make sense of it all, my son simply said..."Dad, why don't you use the tire pump in the car to pump up the tire?" Yeah,we had this air pump in the car that worked off the lighter...but my son...because he didn't know of any existing tire-changing principles...simply asked the question without regard to the way things are suppose to be done.
Short of it is, the pump worked, and we were able to get on our way and enjoyed the rest of the day.
We use a phrase from that day...SLOW DOWN....when faced with a task that seems problematic.
That is how this book hit me...You! A Golf Guru! is a great how-to-be-a-golf-buddy book. It is what you need to know BEFORE you think you need 100's of dollars in lessons. It is a simple book that shows you how to slow down...enjoy the game for what it is, and have more fun for you and your friends that you are playing with.
This is Golf's version of 'How To Win Friends and Influence People'
The book, by author Philip Rennet gives us a collection of story's and observations of how one should approach the game as your game exists now, and learn to enjoy what the game has to offer, while playing your game.
Golf is hard, but it doesn't need to be ruined by bad attitudes that alienate the group...this happens when you think you're playing below your capabilities. This book shows you how to accept your abilities, and work on your foundation of fun!
Read this book before you pay for those lessons of how to play better. Slow down and smell the roses.
Thanks for reading...keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
I immediately went into "Dad" mode...scouring the back pages of my memory to remember how to change a tire. After a half hour of pulling tire-changing tools and manuals out of the car and scattering them on the ground to make sense of it all, my son simply said..."Dad, why don't you use the tire pump in the car to pump up the tire?" Yeah,we had this air pump in the car that worked off the lighter...but my son...because he didn't know of any existing tire-changing principles...simply asked the question without regard to the way things are suppose to be done.
Short of it is, the pump worked, and we were able to get on our way and enjoyed the rest of the day.
We use a phrase from that day...SLOW DOWN....when faced with a task that seems problematic.
That is how this book hit me...You! A Golf Guru! is a great how-to-be-a-golf-buddy book. It is what you need to know BEFORE you think you need 100's of dollars in lessons. It is a simple book that shows you how to slow down...enjoy the game for what it is, and have more fun for you and your friends that you are playing with.
This is Golf's version of 'How To Win Friends and Influence People'
The book, by author Philip Rennet gives us a collection of story's and observations of how one should approach the game as your game exists now, and learn to enjoy what the game has to offer, while playing your game.
Golf is hard, but it doesn't need to be ruined by bad attitudes that alienate the group...this happens when you think you're playing below your capabilities. This book shows you how to accept your abilities, and work on your foundation of fun!
Read this book before you pay for those lessons of how to play better. Slow down and smell the roses.
Thanks for reading...keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Guest post
How Posture Boosts Golf
Performance
Posture
is important throughout our daily lives in a number of ways, and its
significance doesn’t wane when the game of golf is considered. In a sport where
technique and consistency are expected in order to achieve any level of
success, posture is a key ingredient for a pleasant scorecard.
A lot
of it is mental, and a lot of it is physical. Posture is a major factor in a
player’s efforts to acquire a fundamental technique on the golf course. Many
factors affect a person’s ability to develop and maintain a good posture:
-Body type
-Practice
-Natural tendencies
-Physical ability and athleticism
-Developed habits
-Mental awareness
-Focus
The bottom line is
that the exact ideal posture for each golfer is different. However, there are ways
to improve it, and they often apply nearly universally in principle.
How to Position Yourself for Success
There are a few ways that
golfers of all types and skill level can enhance their stance and positioning.
While all of them surely don’t apply to every player, the gist of each can
often be applied to some facet of a person’s game.
1.
Stand
tall with knees bent slightly:
One of the most critical factors in
mastering golf posture is trying not to curve the back and stand tall. This
helps golfers drive through the ball and avoid the natural tendency of pulling
upward in the down swing. While there will surely be a dip of some sort in each
player’s swing, the goal is to stay consistent through the stroke follow
through. Standing mostly upright with knees slightly bent is a good place to
start.
2.
Arms
should fall straight from the body:
Arms need to be straight when a player gears
up for a swing. This doesn’t mean that they need to be flexed straight to the
point of hyperextension, but rather a calm and focused arm position.
3.
Body
weight should be positioned to fall on the balls of feet:
Like
most sports, athletes perform better when they are acting and moving on the
balls of their feet. Golf is no different, and with the importance of balance
in the game, this idea is even more critical. The better the balance and weight
distribution, the more fundamentally sound a swing will be.
There
are so many essential ingredients to compile a well-rounded and successful golf
game. While posture is simply one of them, it’s a significant step toward improvement
and performance on the golf course.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
6 degrees of seperation hole in one
Recently, my Uncle-inlaw holed a par-3. According to the laws of seperation, I should drink a beer to this hole in one....technically now...I can say I've had a hole in one too!
http://www.nationalholeinoneregistry.com/myholeinone.php?id=25789
For all those aspring and finally hitting that magical shot, this is a registry to log this event in perpetuity.
I'd like to know where I can play a course without a collared shirt.
Good on ya...you pisser!
Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
http://www.nationalholeinoneregistry.com/myholeinone.php?id=25789
For all those aspring and finally hitting that magical shot, this is a registry to log this event in perpetuity.
I'd like to know where I can play a course without a collared shirt.
Good on ya...you pisser!
Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Golf Etiquette
A Golfer accidentally overturned his cart.
Elizabeth, a "beautiful" real golfer who lived in a villa on the golf course heard the noise and yelled over to him.
"Hey, are you okay, what's your name?"
"Sean," he replied.
"Sean forget your troubles. Come to my villa, rest up and I'll help you get the cart up later."
"That's mighty nice of you," Sean answered, "but I don't think my wife would like it."
"Aw come on," Elizabeth insisted. She was very pretty and persuasive.
"Well okay," Sean finally agreed, and added, "but my wife won't like it."
After a hearty drink AND sexy driving and putting lessons, Sean thanked his host. "I feel a lot better now, but I know my wife is going to be real upset."
"Don't be foolish!" Elizabeth said with a smile, she won't know anything. By the way, where is she?"
"Under the cart !"
Elizabeth, a "beautiful" real golfer who lived in a villa on the golf course heard the noise and yelled over to him.
"Hey, are you okay, what's your name?"
"Sean," he replied.
"Sean forget your troubles. Come to my villa, rest up and I'll help you get the cart up later."
"That's mighty nice of you," Sean answered, "but I don't think my wife would like it."
"Aw come on," Elizabeth insisted. She was very pretty and persuasive.
"Well okay," Sean finally agreed, and added, "but my wife won't like it."
After a hearty drink AND sexy driving and putting lessons, Sean thanked his host. "I feel a lot better now, but I know my wife is going to be real upset."
"Don't be foolish!" Elizabeth said with a smile, she won't know anything. By the way, where is she?"
"Under the cart !"
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Reali...Wii
Now that I am classified as a "phenom" on the Wii-Nationwide Tour...I felt I had the chops to take my newfound confidence to a real golf course...terra firma...the reality yin to the virtual yan. I mean 3 months of learning my new swing from the Wii feedback should shave a few shots off my real score...right?
Ummm...well, yes and no...
During my trial by fire on the Wii, I realized that I could get 100% swing speed by forcibly using both arms as one on the downswing (before I had just been using my left arm and my right had been along for the ride). This knowledge is the basis for my new swing.
As I approached the range, I looked at the range balls with lust as I clamored for my 7-iron (my tempo club) to take a few swings to appreciate my "new" swing.
...clunk...shank...top....thud...
...okay, enough of the verbs...you get the idea. I stood there in wonder (and nervous sweat) where my swing went.
I started cussing-out the Wii. I took my Driver..."dammit...I'm gonna force a solid connection....
...pie-yowwww...as it swooped in on the loblolly pines to my extreme right.
What the $&%?! I'm desperately hoping my playing partner is not watching this meltown...
Time to take the wedge, and after a few methodical, solid connections...I had gained some confidence to walk to the first teebox.
Overall, I played pretty well. I think my Ranger Rick episode was more about the weight of a golf club (the Wii controller obviously is not congruent to mimic a golf club) than anything else.
The grid you see on the Wii when putting I think helps read real greens...I think you are more aware of the green, and not the line you are trying to find, and that actually helped.
As for using both arms to forcefully swing..yes it really has helped figuring that out on the Wii and bringing it to the course. Both woods and irons were flying accurate and solid. I actually want to practice on a real range now...something I don't relish...but I see where I can make some good strides to increasing the power in my game...something I've always lacked..oh, and thanks to the variety of accessories...so I can accessorize...I'm picking out better golf clothing....ya know...fake it 'til ya make-it.
....now where can I find some lead tape to put some weight on the controller?
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
Ummm...well, yes and no...
During my trial by fire on the Wii, I realized that I could get 100% swing speed by forcibly using both arms as one on the downswing (before I had just been using my left arm and my right had been along for the ride). This knowledge is the basis for my new swing.
As I approached the range, I looked at the range balls with lust as I clamored for my 7-iron (my tempo club) to take a few swings to appreciate my "new" swing.
...clunk...shank...top....thud...
...okay, enough of the verbs...you get the idea. I stood there in wonder (and nervous sweat) where my swing went.
I started cussing-out the Wii. I took my Driver..."dammit...I'm gonna force a solid connection....
...pie-yowwww...as it swooped in on the loblolly pines to my extreme right.
What the $&%?! I'm desperately hoping my playing partner is not watching this meltown...
Time to take the wedge, and after a few methodical, solid connections...I had gained some confidence to walk to the first teebox.
Overall, I played pretty well. I think my Ranger Rick episode was more about the weight of a golf club (the Wii controller obviously is not congruent to mimic a golf club) than anything else.
The grid you see on the Wii when putting I think helps read real greens...I think you are more aware of the green, and not the line you are trying to find, and that actually helped.
As for using both arms to forcefully swing..yes it really has helped figuring that out on the Wii and bringing it to the course. Both woods and irons were flying accurate and solid. I actually want to practice on a real range now...something I don't relish...but I see where I can make some good strides to increasing the power in my game...something I've always lacked..oh, and thanks to the variety of accessories...so I can accessorize...I'm picking out better golf clothing....ya know...fake it 'til ya make-it.
....now where can I find some lead tape to put some weight on the controller?
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
Monday, August 23, 2010
The space between your ears
Tiger Woods' on course scoring collapse, is a stark reminder that no matter how shiny and improved your clubs are...no matter how many practice balls you hit...no matter how many golf lessons you take...how many instructional videos you buy...
...it all comes down to a clear mind.
If you play the game distracted...you will have distracted results.
This is how ruts start: If you are distracted...you will play poorly, when you play poorly, you will lose confidence, when you lose confidence you second-guess yourself...
...and on and on it goes. It's an infinite loop that can only be stopped by stopping the cycle.
You stop the cycle by quitting...
Tiger has to put down his clubs...walk away...and find another hobby...like spearfishing...he loves that sport. He needs to take the rest of the year or two picking up fish spears and laying down his golf clubs.
Then, when he is relaxed and can sleep at night not worrying about his swing...then, and only then, will he be able to come back to golf. He'll have a fresh mind, a fresh approach, and will have confidence that will lead to a clear mind.
I also think he and his caddy Stevie will have to part ways if Tiger is serious about getting back to #1. But that is for another post.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
...it all comes down to a clear mind.
If you play the game distracted...you will have distracted results.
This is how ruts start: If you are distracted...you will play poorly, when you play poorly, you will lose confidence, when you lose confidence you second-guess yourself...
...and on and on it goes. It's an infinite loop that can only be stopped by stopping the cycle.
You stop the cycle by quitting...
Tiger has to put down his clubs...walk away...and find another hobby...like spearfishing...he loves that sport. He needs to take the rest of the year or two picking up fish spears and laying down his golf clubs.
Then, when he is relaxed and can sleep at night not worrying about his swing...then, and only then, will he be able to come back to golf. He'll have a fresh mind, a fresh approach, and will have confidence that will lead to a clear mind.
I also think he and his caddy Stevie will have to part ways if Tiger is serious about getting back to #1. But that is for another post.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
Monday, May 18, 2009
Crash Davis would approve
One of my favorite sports movies of all time is 'Bull Durham' the title itself is so well known, that it rivals 'Caddyshack' in favorite one-liners. Crash Davis mentoring Nuke LaLoosh is bested only by Ty and Carl.
Last week, Henrik Stenson revived Annie Savoy's recipe of getting your mind off the game. Remember when Annie had Nuke wear her underwear so he would take his mind off the mechanics of pitching...and just pitch?
A few weeks ago, Henrik Stenson showed more skin than Jan Stephenson in the mid 80's,
and folks couldn't believe it and thought it sacrilegious..."what...he took off his glove?!"
But Henrik uncovered and revealed something more than his skin...he revealed Annie's secret sauce...making yourself uncomfortable to get comfortable.
Last week, 'Half-Nude' Henrik slapped the field on the bum to take the The Players Championship. Right now, he's the hottest golfer playing 18...and that's not just the women thinking that. Henrik is winning because he isn't thinking about his game the way he did before that fateful day of disrobe-ing.
And thanks to that day, his talent is trumping his thinking.
As Annie would say "The world is made for people who aren't cursed with self awareness."
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
PS: for my father-in-law
Last week, Henrik Stenson revived Annie Savoy's recipe of getting your mind off the game. Remember when Annie had Nuke wear her underwear so he would take his mind off the mechanics of pitching...and just pitch?
A few weeks ago, Henrik Stenson showed more skin than Jan Stephenson in the mid 80's,
and folks couldn't believe it and thought it sacrilegious..."what...he took off his glove?!"
But Henrik uncovered and revealed something more than his skin...he revealed Annie's secret sauce...making yourself uncomfortable to get comfortable.
Last week, 'Half-Nude' Henrik slapped the field on the bum to take the The Players Championship. Right now, he's the hottest golfer playing 18...and that's not just the women thinking that. Henrik is winning because he isn't thinking about his game the way he did before that fateful day of disrobe-ing.
And thanks to that day, his talent is trumping his thinking.
As Annie would say "The world is made for people who aren't cursed with self awareness."
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
PS: for my father-in-law
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Have yips? Look no further than L.A. for help.
Now that the world of golf has put the kibosh on performance-enhancing drugs (PED's), thinking out-of-the-box for solutions to find that extra edge are being sought-out in the strangest of places.
Like Los Angeles.
Yes, the place where you go to be seen has its roots in a product that can cure the yips.
That product is Botox.
According to a Bloomberg report, Botox...which (among losing your wrinkles) is used for patients with Parkinson's, Muscular Dystrophy, and other "focal dystonia"...or muscle cramping.
Yips is muscle-tightening...similar to writers cramps...and that is the basis of a study sponsored by Allergan (maker of Botox) to see if their product will be the silver bullet for yip-sufferers around the world.
If the study finds that there is indeed positive results, the ramifications could be huge as Botox is not considered a PED in golf.
No word yet if Scotty Cameron is worried.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Like Los Angeles.
Yes, the place where you go to be seen has its roots in a product that can cure the yips.
That product is Botox.
According to a Bloomberg report, Botox...which (among losing your wrinkles) is used for patients with Parkinson's, Muscular Dystrophy, and other "focal dystonia"...or muscle cramping.
Yips is muscle-tightening...similar to writers cramps...and that is the basis of a study sponsored by Allergan (maker of Botox) to see if their product will be the silver bullet for yip-sufferers around the world.
If the study finds that there is indeed positive results, the ramifications could be huge as Botox is not considered a PED in golf.
No word yet if Scotty Cameron is worried.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving!
The teacher asked my 4-year old son what he was thankful for this year...he replied "The Easter Bunny"
...next time he wakes me up in the morning to get him his Lego-brand waffles, I'm telling him to get the Easter Bunny to do it.
Here's to all of us out there who deserve a nice little "thanks" for all the stuff we put up with throughout the year...
I'm thankful for YouTube, as it lets me dream this impossible dream/video.
Oh, hi honey...didn't see you looking over my shoulder "researching" golf videos...ah heh heh...aaahyeahh...
...yeah, good idea...I'll just snuggle up on the couch tonight.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
It is not as if not having the right golf clubs or the correct size of baseball will ruin your golf vacations. You can have fun playing baseball as well as basketball. Playing golf is not mandatory at all specially by having to have booked the venue in advance at golf galaxy.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
"That's what I'm talkin' about!"
Golf enthusiasts looking for expert advice on improving their game need to check this out. Golf Tips ( www.golftipswithjoe.tv) debuts as a virtual driving range, offering viewers direct access to the best golf techniques available, delivered on demand over the Internet.
Golf Tips is one of several new programs being introduced by ON Networks, Inc.
Hosted by Joe Beck, a seasoned PGA professional with 20 years in the game. The show provides informed instruction designed to appeal to abroad range of golfers.
Beck tackles a different technique in 3-4 minute episodes, breaking it down into basic steps which he walks his viewers through...such as driving, putting, or escaping a bunker. This week's episode, titled, "Chipping, the Bump-and-Run", features Beck demonstrating how to take control of your chipping off the green. Each episode is packed with awesome camera angles that give you different views of the shot, is fast-moving, and sure to keep your attention...especially the "Circle of Friends" putting episode!
Unfortunately, the only thing I have circling when I'm on the green are sharks. Maybe watching these videos before I play will help my wallet stay in my back pocket!
JFB
People usually go to golf galaxy to buy everything from golf clubs bad golf shoes to basketball equipment as well. That is why the galaxy gets raving comments and referrals from baseball as well as basketball coaches.
Monday, May 28, 2007
The definition of "inspiration"
I played with Dave this afternoon at Bentwater in Georgia. Forget Webster's...watch this video. Oh yeah...he also played 18 in the morning.
JFB
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Monday, March 19, 2007
Why we have misery in golf
Ever wonder why you can't play a perfect round of golf? I mean there is always that one hole that you can come back to in a conversation and say: "yeah, I would have blistered the course if it weren't for that hole".
It's because of greens keepers.
When you play a golf course...think for a minute...whom do you tip? Everyone that touches your bag, serves your drink/food, and cleans your clubs/shoes...right?
When was the last time you said to your playing partners: "you know guys...we need to pull out some scratch for the guys mowing the grass...I mean, those greens were slicker than my grandmas hosiery".
(Um, not that I've ever felt my grandma's leggings. But I digress.)
But I'm right...right!? I'll bet the last time a greens keeper got a tip is when he overheard the club pro telling his playing partner about a hot stock.
That's why we have that one bad hole. Trust me, there are millions of greens keepers with a huge chip of schadenfreude on their shoulders, that when channeled properly, can claim the lives of the best attempts at a perfect round.
So the next time you're out for a fun round of golf, and that one hole comes out of nowhere and bites you...somewhere in the bushes, a greens keeper with a bad case of schadenfreude is snickering.
So tip your greens keeper.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
It's because of greens keepers.
When you play a golf course...think for a minute...whom do you tip? Everyone that touches your bag, serves your drink/food, and cleans your clubs/shoes...right?
When was the last time you said to your playing partners: "you know guys...we need to pull out some scratch for the guys mowing the grass...I mean, those greens were slicker than my grandmas hosiery".
(Um, not that I've ever felt my grandma's leggings. But I digress.)
But I'm right...right!? I'll bet the last time a greens keeper got a tip is when he overheard the club pro telling his playing partner about a hot stock.
That's why we have that one bad hole. Trust me, there are millions of greens keepers with a huge chip of schadenfreude on their shoulders, that when channeled properly, can claim the lives of the best attempts at a perfect round.
So the next time you're out for a fun round of golf, and that one hole comes out of nowhere and bites you...somewhere in the bushes, a greens keeper with a bad case of schadenfreude is snickering.
So tip your greens keeper.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Why we have misery in golf
Ever wonder why you can't play a perfect round of golf? I mean there is always that one hole that you can come back to in a conversation and say: "yeah, I would have blistered the course if it weren't for that hole".
It's because of greens keepers.
When you play a golf course...think for a minute...whom do you tip? Everyone that touches your bag, serves your drink/food, and cleans your clubs/shoes...right?
When was the last time you said to your playing partners: "you know guys...we need to pull out some scratch for the guys mowing the grass...I mean, those greens were slicker than my grandmas hosiery".
(Um, not that I've ever felt my grandma's leggings. But I digress.)
But I'm right...right!? I'll bet the last time a greens keeper got a tip is when he overheard the club pro telling his playing partner about a hot stock.
That's why we have that one bad hole. Trust me, there are millions of greens keepers with a huge chip of schadenfreude on their shoulders, that when channeled properly, can claim the lives of the best attempts at a perfect round.
So the next time you're out for a fun round of golf, and that one hole comes out of nowhere and bites you...somewhere in the bushes, a greens keeper with a bad case of schadenfreude is snickering.
So tip your greens keeper.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
It's because of greens keepers.
When you play a golf course...think for a minute...whom do you tip? Everyone that touches your bag, serves your drink/food, and cleans your clubs/shoes...right?
When was the last time you said to your playing partners: "you know guys...we need to pull out some scratch for the guys mowing the grass...I mean, those greens were slicker than my grandmas hosiery".
(Um, not that I've ever felt my grandma's leggings. But I digress.)
But I'm right...right!? I'll bet the last time a greens keeper got a tip is when he overheard the club pro telling his playing partner about a hot stock.
That's why we have that one bad hole. Trust me, there are millions of greens keepers with a huge chip of schadenfreude on their shoulders, that when channeled properly, can claim the lives of the best attempts at a perfect round.
So the next time you're out for a fun round of golf, and that one hole comes out of nowhere and bites you...somewhere in the bushes, a greens keeper with a bad case of schadenfreude is snickering.
So tip your greens keeper.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Lower (Lumbar) back strain
I have a flat swing, and yesterday I got to the country club (pix to follow) early, to work on creating a more upright swing so I ca get a greater descending blow at impact. I'm happy to report that my practice paid off.
The downside is that my back muscles are not strong enough, so I had some discomfort during the round, and today from altering my swing. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
I did a little research on lower back pain, and found that what I have is a very common Lumbar strain , and I can get relief from various exercises. In the link I've provided, you can find a printable worksheet of easy-to-follow back exercises if you need them. I plan on creating a regimen for me to follow tomorrow.
I also changed my putting technique. Before, I had a forward stance, where the ball was lined-up with my front foot. I moved the ball back to the middle. This made the putter-head square at impact. I also made a conscious effort to keep the angle of my wrists consistent throughout the stroke. I'm happy to report that worked in spades as well. I only missed 2 putts within 10 feet.
Did I need to change everything? Well...let's just say it's why I tried something new. It's not that I was playing bad, it's just that I can play better with these improved methods. It might take some time to make it into my muscle memory, but it'll hold up better in the long-run if I stick with it.
I shot an 88 with a trip, and 2 doubles. It was the first time I played the course, and the greens were lightning fast. The majority of my shots were crisp, and I felt confident on all of my putts.
The more I get used to my "new" swing, the lower these numbers are going to get for me.
Except for the issue of my lower back feeling tight right now...that's exciting!
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
The downside is that my back muscles are not strong enough, so I had some discomfort during the round, and today from altering my swing. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
I did a little research on lower back pain, and found that what I have is a very common Lumbar strain , and I can get relief from various exercises. In the link I've provided, you can find a printable worksheet of easy-to-follow back exercises if you need them. I plan on creating a regimen for me to follow tomorrow.
I also changed my putting technique. Before, I had a forward stance, where the ball was lined-up with my front foot. I moved the ball back to the middle. This made the putter-head square at impact. I also made a conscious effort to keep the angle of my wrists consistent throughout the stroke. I'm happy to report that worked in spades as well. I only missed 2 putts within 10 feet.
Did I need to change everything? Well...let's just say it's why I tried something new. It's not that I was playing bad, it's just that I can play better with these improved methods. It might take some time to make it into my muscle memory, but it'll hold up better in the long-run if I stick with it.
I shot an 88 with a trip, and 2 doubles. It was the first time I played the course, and the greens were lightning fast. The majority of my shots were crisp, and I felt confident on all of my putts.
The more I get used to my "new" swing, the lower these numbers are going to get for me.
Except for the issue of my lower back feeling tight right now...that's exciting!
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Of golf and melanoma
I hear ya: "geez, first you're warning us about bird flu, now melanoma! Should I even leave the house? Don't you listen to anything but NPR?!"
Okay..okay...I hear ya. Just let me tell you this story. It just might save your life.
A little over a year-and-a-half-ago, I was diagnosed with a malignant melanoma. In layman's terms: skin cancer. I had what they call a sentinal lymph-node biopsy done shortly after the removal of the cancer, and that surgery determined the progression was negative. In fact there is less than 5% chance of a recurrence from this particular episode. After 5 years I am cleared.
Had the surgery proved different, I would be telling you a whole other story.
How it was discovered:
Almost 2 years ago, I went to an Allergist to see what my options were to help relieve me from allergy's. She decided to do a scratch test in which they prick your back with different potential allergans. They can see which ones you have a reaction to, and then they can create a formula for immunotherapy (which is a series of shots taken to build up your immune system for said allergans).
At the time of the test, she noticed a mole on my back that said needed looked at by a Dermatologist.
After my appointment she gave me a referral to a Dermatologist, and I went to see her.
I wasn't too concerned at that point because about 5 years previous, I had a check-up in which a doc noticed it, but said it was of no concern.
This is where the Internet and general curiosity would have been a big help to me. Instead of taking that docs word, I could have pro-active measures by looking into melanoma . But, hindsight is 20/20.
How I could have prevented it:
When I was a kid, I can't tell you how many times I got sun-burnt. The peeling, the itching, the dry-skin. I was all-too familiar with the routine. Coppertone was out there, but not the information (like there is today) of how important UV protection to your body is.
80% of skin cell damage is done under the age of 18. SPF 15 is recommended. Anything less than that leaves you no protection.
You might be tempted to tell yourself: what is done is done, but you would be wrong, as there is a whole 20% more skin damage that can occur, and the older you get, the less resistance your skin has.....and skin damage can come not only in the form of skin cancer, but in pre-mature aging (eg: wrinkles, age spots, leathery-looking, and shiny skin).
How I prevent it going forward:
No doubt, that was the biggest scare of my life. But I am lucky, as I had excellent doctors that took immediate action....and I am overall very healthy, which played a lot into all of this.
The most productive use of my life lesson, is to practice prevention, and to pass this message on to others.
Okay..okay...I hear ya. Just let me tell you this story. It just might save your life.
A little over a year-and-a-half-ago, I was diagnosed with a malignant melanoma. In layman's terms: skin cancer. I had what they call a sentinal lymph-node biopsy done shortly after the removal of the cancer, and that surgery determined the progression was negative. In fact there is less than 5% chance of a recurrence from this particular episode. After 5 years I am cleared.
Had the surgery proved different, I would be telling you a whole other story.
How it was discovered:
Almost 2 years ago, I went to an Allergist to see what my options were to help relieve me from allergy's. She decided to do a scratch test in which they prick your back with different potential allergans. They can see which ones you have a reaction to, and then they can create a formula for immunotherapy (which is a series of shots taken to build up your immune system for said allergans).
At the time of the test, she noticed a mole on my back that said needed looked at by a Dermatologist.
After my appointment she gave me a referral to a Dermatologist, and I went to see her.
I wasn't too concerned at that point because about 5 years previous, I had a check-up in which a doc noticed it, but said it was of no concern.
This is where the Internet and general curiosity would have been a big help to me. Instead of taking that docs word, I could have pro-active measures by looking into melanoma . But, hindsight is 20/20.
How I could have prevented it:
When I was a kid, I can't tell you how many times I got sun-burnt. The peeling, the itching, the dry-skin. I was all-too familiar with the routine. Coppertone was out there, but not the information (like there is today) of how important UV protection to your body is.
80% of skin cell damage is done under the age of 18. SPF 15 is recommended. Anything less than that leaves you no protection.
You might be tempted to tell yourself: what is done is done, but you would be wrong, as there is a whole 20% more skin damage that can occur, and the older you get, the less resistance your skin has.....and skin damage can come not only in the form of skin cancer, but in pre-mature aging (eg: wrinkles, age spots, leathery-looking, and shiny skin).
How I prevent it going forward:
No doubt, that was the biggest scare of my life. But I am lucky, as I had excellent doctors that took immediate action....and I am overall very healthy, which played a lot into all of this.
The most productive use of my life lesson, is to practice prevention, and to pass this message on to others.
- Always wear a brimmed hat while in the sun, ballcaps don't cover your ears or the back of your neck.
- Always put on SPF 15 or greater lotion...focusing on the parts that will be exposed.
- Get a full-body check-up from a Dermatologist. A general practitioner is not qualified to spot problem moles.
- If you have a mole that's bigger than an erasures-head...it needs to be checked.
- Check out the melanoma website and get familiar with what a problem mole looks like, how to self-check yourself routinely, and what other avenues of UV protection you need to observe.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Golf: a (m)entalman's game
Yesterday was admittedly my worst day of golf I've played in over a year. The reason it was the worst is because I've never hit the ball better.
Huh?
Remember that person that told you the game is 99% mental, and the rest is skill? Well the reason they told you that, is because they had a day like I had.
Let me set the beginning up for you:
I'm playing a premier course; Cherokee Run....a Palmer design, and a sought-after course to play when folks visit here during the Masters weekend. I'm dialed-in on the range, and I'm psyched 'cause I'm coming off a very good round I played last weekend in Savannah (Henderson Golf Club)....and none of my body parts are barkin' at me. It's a beautiful day out, Spring is in full-bloom.
I sink a 20-footer for par on the 1st hole, and I'm rarin' to go. I LOVE golf!!!
Then the proverbial poop hits the fan.
Let me set up the middle for you:
This is the best spring-time ever, everything is in bloom....bad news for me though 'cause I'm freakin' allergic to everything.
I 3-putt from 10 feet.
I can barely breathe without sneezing or coughing...how annoying. We're playing in the afternoon, so the sun is creating long shadows. It seems that everytime I'm addressing the ball, I'm standing over my shadow...this is starting to irritate me as my shadow is a terrible golfer.
I pull-hook my drive, I think it was doing 3-G's before it bored its way into a Pine.
For the price to play, the tee boxes are all hacked up....I expected better course maintenance. Now I'm thinking price vs quality of course and I'm getting depressed. My Google ads won't make up this lost money.
What is with this slow play? I'm thinking to myself, as I'm waiting what seems like forever to take my next shot. I hate slow play because it gives me more time to think about why I hate it. Geez, I can hardly breathe...stinkin' Dogwoods.
I hit my 5th GIR in a row, but 3-putt again to keep my 4th straight 3-putt. Yes! Let's keep that streak alive!
Let me set up the end for you:
By this time I've lost confidence in my putting. The lead tape I added to my putter (I channel-surfed over the Golf Channel one day, and the expert said putters should be minimum C8 weighted) has been tossed in the ivey-infested woods. Stupid freakin' experts.
The Bent-grass greens have messed me up as the last few courses I've played have been Bermuda. I start messing with different grips, stances, balls......nothing's working. The key, I tell myself, is to be below the hole on fast greens, but the wind is blowing about 15 mph...I haven't played the course in over a year.... I don't have a yardage book....and I'm starting to believe that yardage markers are off....and I given up complete control to my shadow.
This course is worse that I remember it. It's getting late...5+ hours to play a round of golf, and I'm starved. What a ridiculous day. I'm starting to believe spring-time is overrated as I clamour for another Claritan.
Now I remember why I HATE golf....there are more ups and downs than at Six Flags.
This morning I'm still thinking about my putting. I'm doing my usual stretch routine when the old light-bulb-in-my-head goes on.
My old coach taught me to imagine holding an egg between my left elbow and ribcage when putting. Doing this keeps the putter on a truer line going forward, and will eliminate pushing the putt.
I get excited about this revelation (one of remembering an old swing-thought, and two of just being able to remember).
You know, I still have my clubs in the trunk.....it's a beautiful day out.......hmmmm......I LOVE GOLF!!!!!!!
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Huh?
Remember that person that told you the game is 99% mental, and the rest is skill? Well the reason they told you that, is because they had a day like I had.
Let me set the beginning up for you:
I'm playing a premier course; Cherokee Run....a Palmer design, and a sought-after course to play when folks visit here during the Masters weekend. I'm dialed-in on the range, and I'm psyched 'cause I'm coming off a very good round I played last weekend in Savannah (Henderson Golf Club)....and none of my body parts are barkin' at me. It's a beautiful day out, Spring is in full-bloom.
I sink a 20-footer for par on the 1st hole, and I'm rarin' to go. I LOVE golf!!!
Then the proverbial poop hits the fan.
Let me set up the middle for you:
This is the best spring-time ever, everything is in bloom....bad news for me though 'cause I'm freakin' allergic to everything.
I 3-putt from 10 feet.
I can barely breathe without sneezing or coughing...how annoying. We're playing in the afternoon, so the sun is creating long shadows. It seems that everytime I'm addressing the ball, I'm standing over my shadow...this is starting to irritate me as my shadow is a terrible golfer.
I pull-hook my drive, I think it was doing 3-G's before it bored its way into a Pine.
For the price to play, the tee boxes are all hacked up....I expected better course maintenance. Now I'm thinking price vs quality of course and I'm getting depressed. My Google ads won't make up this lost money.
What is with this slow play? I'm thinking to myself, as I'm waiting what seems like forever to take my next shot. I hate slow play because it gives me more time to think about why I hate it. Geez, I can hardly breathe...stinkin' Dogwoods.
I hit my 5th GIR in a row, but 3-putt again to keep my 4th straight 3-putt. Yes! Let's keep that streak alive!
Let me set up the end for you:
By this time I've lost confidence in my putting. The lead tape I added to my putter (I channel-surfed over the Golf Channel one day, and the expert said putters should be minimum C8 weighted) has been tossed in the ivey-infested woods. Stupid freakin' experts.
The Bent-grass greens have messed me up as the last few courses I've played have been Bermuda. I start messing with different grips, stances, balls......nothing's working. The key, I tell myself, is to be below the hole on fast greens, but the wind is blowing about 15 mph...I haven't played the course in over a year.... I don't have a yardage book....and I'm starting to believe that yardage markers are off....and I given up complete control to my shadow.
This course is worse that I remember it. It's getting late...5+ hours to play a round of golf, and I'm starved. What a ridiculous day. I'm starting to believe spring-time is overrated as I clamour for another Claritan.
Now I remember why I HATE golf....there are more ups and downs than at Six Flags.
This morning I'm still thinking about my putting. I'm doing my usual stretch routine when the old light-bulb-in-my-head goes on.
My old coach taught me to imagine holding an egg between my left elbow and ribcage when putting. Doing this keeps the putter on a truer line going forward, and will eliminate pushing the putt.
I get excited about this revelation (one of remembering an old swing-thought, and two of just being able to remember).
You know, I still have my clubs in the trunk.....it's a beautiful day out.......hmmmm......I LOVE GOLF!!!!!!!
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Border collies and golf courses
The upcoming avian flu crisis will affect every one of our lives. Most of the media however is (of course) providing us with gruesome scenarios on a daily basis. The usual shotgun reporting approach is not based on prevention, but rather one of creating a herd mentality (eg: why the hell can't congress make more Tamiflu? And: is Jim Cramer really picking pork-stocks?!)).
First off, the virus by nature is extremely hard to transmit from bird-to-human. You basically have to be in the close proximity to affected birds where there is excrement transaction (ie:swallowing bird-poop).
This however takes us to golf.
Basically, every course has a bird problem. It's become such a nuisance, that Border Collie trainers have been hired by golf courses to help root out Canadian Geese that infest courses. The collies run around chasing the birds off the course. I predict you'll see more courses that employ this tactic....it'll be a good year for dog trainers.
With the golf season upon us, it would be wise to use a few precautions:
You would be smart to not wash the golf ball with your mouth (I know that's gross, but I've seen it done hundreds of times).
You should wash your hands after your round, before you go eat a sandwich.
You would be smart to wash your golf towels and golf shoes in hot water after every round.
I'd even go so far as to not drink the course water. Bring your own bottle of water.
I'm sure you can think of more precautions....but these will get you started at least thinking about good hygiene that will be required in these coming months.
Please tell your golfing-friends and siblings to use good hygiene on the golf course, as it will become an issue.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
First off, the virus by nature is extremely hard to transmit from bird-to-human. You basically have to be in the close proximity to affected birds where there is excrement transaction (ie:swallowing bird-poop).
This however takes us to golf.
Basically, every course has a bird problem. It's become such a nuisance, that Border Collie trainers have been hired by golf courses to help root out Canadian Geese that infest courses. The collies run around chasing the birds off the course. I predict you'll see more courses that employ this tactic....it'll be a good year for dog trainers.
With the golf season upon us, it would be wise to use a few precautions:
You would be smart to not wash the golf ball with your mouth (I know that's gross, but I've seen it done hundreds of times).
You should wash your hands after your round, before you go eat a sandwich.
You would be smart to wash your golf towels and golf shoes in hot water after every round.
I'd even go so far as to not drink the course water. Bring your own bottle of water.
I'm sure you can think of more precautions....but these will get you started at least thinking about good hygiene that will be required in these coming months.
Please tell your golfing-friends and siblings to use good hygiene on the golf course, as it will become an issue.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
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