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
Showing posts with label Swing thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Swing thoughts. Show all posts
Saturday, June 28, 2008
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
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Stick a tee in the ground for focused putting.
I was on the practice green yesterday, and I was doing my usual routine when the coach of our local High School was showing one of his players how I was putting. Intrigued, I decided to explain to the young chap what I was doing.
This is what I told him.
The way I practice putting is I do not putt to the holes. I take out a tee and stick it in the ground, and use this as my hole. The reason is two-fold: one; I want to mentally focus on the pattern of my putts around the tee and two; I want the feeling that the hole is actually that small.
Practicing is all about generating confidence. If I'm on the practice green, and I'm missing putts there....what do you think I'll do on the course? Conversely, if I'm just focused on getting the ball around a tee, I'm gaining confidence, and will have a much better opportunity to hit the real hole on the course. Using a tee simply gives me something to aim at that is smaller than a hole. It's not as stressful if I miss a tee, but if I miss a hole.....uh oh.
Back in the day, when I played golf for my High School team, there were a couple great putters on the team that always used tees to practice. I picked up the habit, and was glad I did. It's funny though, whenever I'm on the practice green, invariably someone comes over to see what I'm doing.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
This is what I told him.
The way I practice putting is I do not putt to the holes. I take out a tee and stick it in the ground, and use this as my hole. The reason is two-fold: one; I want to mentally focus on the pattern of my putts around the tee and two; I want the feeling that the hole is actually that small.
Practicing is all about generating confidence. If I'm on the practice green, and I'm missing putts there....what do you think I'll do on the course? Conversely, if I'm just focused on getting the ball around a tee, I'm gaining confidence, and will have a much better opportunity to hit the real hole on the course. Using a tee simply gives me something to aim at that is smaller than a hole. It's not as stressful if I miss a tee, but if I miss a hole.....uh oh.
Back in the day, when I played golf for my High School team, there were a couple great putters on the team that always used tees to practice. I picked up the habit, and was glad I did. It's funny though, whenever I'm on the practice green, invariably someone comes over to see what I'm doing.
Thanks for reading. Keep it in the short-grass,
JFB
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Getting Distance, Part deux
So we're at the address, ready to swing. Ok, let's tweak a couple things first.
Remember what I said about flexibility? This is where we cheat the aging process a little.
Take your right foot, and point it slightly outward. Why? This will promote more coil by helping you get your hips turning sooner.
Look at your grip. Is it the "V" we've all been taught to point to the right shoulder? If it's pointed left of that position, then you have a weak grip....great for when you're 20, and you have unbelievable wrist action....but I'm addressing older players, so lose the weak grip and do one of two things.
1) With your left hand, wrap all four fingers around the club with your thumb going down the center. Take your right hand and wrap all four fingers around the club. The only finger we're going to overlap is the left thumb. What we have now is a modified baseball grip. Our hands are still together by virtue of the thumb, but our hands are also working free-er because we are not wrapping/interlocking the pinkie. Why do we do this? Because we want to promote fluid wrist action.
2) The other option is to take the "V" and move it further right of your right shoulder. What we have here is a strong grip. Why would we do this? Because, once again, we want to promote wrist action. A strong grip increases the range at which your wrist can turn left.
Whatever you decide works best, stick with it. You will gain confidence with it once it feels natural.
Ok last thing, at address, look at the butt of your club. Can you see it? Or is the pad of your hand hiding it? We want to see at least 1/2" of the butt of the club. Why? Because these new drivers have loooong shafts, and we need to have as much control as possible when we are swinging the club. Choking up gives us a little more control than if a part of your hand is hanging off the club.
Let's see what we've got at address for part 2: (I'm assuming you're already set in the address position I mentioned in Part 1): Right foot pointed out slightly. We either have the modified baseball grip,or a strong grip. We've choked-up on the club about 1/2".
Ok...this is going to feel awkward for the first few times (unless there is an evil twin lurking that hits it just like I do) so let's do this on the range.
When you make your first swing, go slow. You'll want to feel how all this works together. The first thing you'll notice is how all your weight is transferred to your back leg...your nose will even move behind the ball...this is great! Don't worry if your club is parallel at the top...that doesn't matter here. What you want to feel after you've made your turn, is that the weight is transferring to the left leg at impact. This is where your nose position means everything. At impact, your weight has shifted to the left leg, your nose comes back to center *keep it at center, not past the ball*.
Why? Because you want your legs to take over at point of impact, not your upper body. When you stop your nose, you stop your upper body.
Think of the golf swing as a flycast....the rod(club) whips back, comes back around...then thwack...the wrist(nose) freezes, but the momentum of the rod(club) keeps going...as does the fly(ball).
One point to remember is weight transfer. We don't want swaying, we want turning. With these bigger drivers, it is very easy to start swaying and not even know it. One way I promote turning is by correct posture. When at address, I try to throw my shoulder back, almost like I'm trying to get my shoulder blades to touch. The best example visually would be Michele Wie. She has PERFECT posture from address on the tee box to on the putting green.
Bottom-line. With these new drivers, it is very intimidating when you first hit them. Especially if you don't hit them well after you spend $300+ on one; "I paid how much for this piece of crap". But once you take a few of my tips with you on the range, my best guess for you will be an increase of 20-30 yards, straight down the middle of the fairway, and you will start to embrace this new golf technology.
Just don't take the club to bed with you.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Remember what I said about flexibility? This is where we cheat the aging process a little.
Take your right foot, and point it slightly outward. Why? This will promote more coil by helping you get your hips turning sooner.
Look at your grip. Is it the "V" we've all been taught to point to the right shoulder? If it's pointed left of that position, then you have a weak grip....great for when you're 20, and you have unbelievable wrist action....but I'm addressing older players, so lose the weak grip and do one of two things.
1) With your left hand, wrap all four fingers around the club with your thumb going down the center. Take your right hand and wrap all four fingers around the club. The only finger we're going to overlap is the left thumb. What we have now is a modified baseball grip. Our hands are still together by virtue of the thumb, but our hands are also working free-er because we are not wrapping/interlocking the pinkie. Why do we do this? Because we want to promote fluid wrist action.
2) The other option is to take the "V" and move it further right of your right shoulder. What we have here is a strong grip. Why would we do this? Because, once again, we want to promote wrist action. A strong grip increases the range at which your wrist can turn left.
Whatever you decide works best, stick with it. You will gain confidence with it once it feels natural.
Ok last thing, at address, look at the butt of your club. Can you see it? Or is the pad of your hand hiding it? We want to see at least 1/2" of the butt of the club. Why? Because these new drivers have loooong shafts, and we need to have as much control as possible when we are swinging the club. Choking up gives us a little more control than if a part of your hand is hanging off the club.
Let's see what we've got at address for part 2: (I'm assuming you're already set in the address position I mentioned in Part 1): Right foot pointed out slightly. We either have the modified baseball grip,or a strong grip. We've choked-up on the club about 1/2".
Ok...this is going to feel awkward for the first few times (unless there is an evil twin lurking that hits it just like I do) so let's do this on the range.
When you make your first swing, go slow. You'll want to feel how all this works together. The first thing you'll notice is how all your weight is transferred to your back leg...your nose will even move behind the ball...this is great! Don't worry if your club is parallel at the top...that doesn't matter here. What you want to feel after you've made your turn, is that the weight is transferring to the left leg at impact. This is where your nose position means everything. At impact, your weight has shifted to the left leg, your nose comes back to center *keep it at center, not past the ball*.
Why? Because you want your legs to take over at point of impact, not your upper body. When you stop your nose, you stop your upper body.
Think of the golf swing as a flycast....the rod(club) whips back, comes back around...then thwack...the wrist(nose) freezes, but the momentum of the rod(club) keeps going...as does the fly(ball).
One point to remember is weight transfer. We don't want swaying, we want turning. With these bigger drivers, it is very easy to start swaying and not even know it. One way I promote turning is by correct posture. When at address, I try to throw my shoulder back, almost like I'm trying to get my shoulder blades to touch. The best example visually would be Michele Wie. She has PERFECT posture from address on the tee box to on the putting green.
Bottom-line. With these new drivers, it is very intimidating when you first hit them. Especially if you don't hit them well after you spend $300+ on one; "I paid how much for this piece of crap". But once you take a few of my tips with you on the range, my best guess for you will be an increase of 20-30 yards, straight down the middle of the fairway, and you will start to embrace this new golf technology.
Just don't take the club to bed with you.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
How to get more distance on your drives
When I hear interviews from the up-an-coming big hitters of today (eg: Holmes, Watson etc.), the first question always is: "how'd you learn how to hit it so far?" Without hesitation the answer always is: "Ever since I got my first club, I've tried to hit is as hard as I can." Great advice for kids just starting to play the game....but how about for the rest of us? Uh...more specifically....us old guys.
The older we get, the less we rely on strength, and the more we rely on flexiblity. This is the first cardinal rule in learning how to hit it further. Once we figure out that the only thing we're going to accomplish by swinger harder, is that we'll end up in traction the next morning. We're going to learn to hit smarter.
First off, I'm assuming you're swinging a graphite-shafted 400cc or higher driver, and you're using right-handed clubs.
Weight:
The first thing we need to do is get our weight off our heels. Take a couple racquet balls. On the practice range, put them under your heels. This is where you want your weight at address.
Next we want to get the weight over to the right side at address. Stand on the side of a hill, with your right leg on the downslope. This is how we want our weight at address.
Ok, let's look at what we have. We're at address: weight is in 2 positions slightly forward, and on your right leg. Good!
Ball position:
I'll never forget at a recent trade show, a guy was in the booth, and he asked me why no one took his freebies from the glass jar. I looked in the jar, and there were tees....not just any tees, these were tees we used when we used to hit Persimmon.
Say goodbye to short tees. They will not work with the newer drivers. TRUST ME ON THIS! Go buy the longer tees, and never look back.
OK, Lay your driver on the ground. Take a tee and ball and tee it up. Put the headface next to the ball, you want to see the top quarter of that ball above the top of the head. Next, (say you're looking at the face of the club), line the club and ball up to left of the center of the face. Don't line it up in the center of the face.Why? Because when you come down through the ball, the inertia of your swing will push your swing plane out. If you line the ball up in the center at address, you'll hit off the inside heel.
Now, we want to address the ball off of our left foot, put 2 clubs on the ground in a cross pattern. Put the ball at the top of the cross, and put your left foot at the bottom of the cross. That's where you want to be at address.
Ok, let's see what we've got. You're at address, you're at a comfortable distance between you and the ball, weights off your heels, and on your back leg. Ball is teed up higher than the face of the club, and is lined up left-of-center on the clubface. Your left foot is in line with the ball at address. Good!!
Ok....take a deep breath, and.....hold on....I see our time is up.
To be continued.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
The older we get, the less we rely on strength, and the more we rely on flexiblity. This is the first cardinal rule in learning how to hit it further. Once we figure out that the only thing we're going to accomplish by swinger harder, is that we'll end up in traction the next morning. We're going to learn to hit smarter.
First off, I'm assuming you're swinging a graphite-shafted 400cc or higher driver, and you're using right-handed clubs.
Weight:
The first thing we need to do is get our weight off our heels. Take a couple racquet balls. On the practice range, put them under your heels. This is where you want your weight at address.
Next we want to get the weight over to the right side at address. Stand on the side of a hill, with your right leg on the downslope. This is how we want our weight at address.
Ok, let's look at what we have. We're at address: weight is in 2 positions slightly forward, and on your right leg. Good!
Ball position:
I'll never forget at a recent trade show, a guy was in the booth, and he asked me why no one took his freebies from the glass jar. I looked in the jar, and there were tees....not just any tees, these were tees we used when we used to hit Persimmon.
Say goodbye to short tees. They will not work with the newer drivers. TRUST ME ON THIS! Go buy the longer tees, and never look back.
OK, Lay your driver on the ground. Take a tee and ball and tee it up. Put the headface next to the ball, you want to see the top quarter of that ball above the top of the head. Next, (say you're looking at the face of the club), line the club and ball up to left of the center of the face. Don't line it up in the center of the face.Why? Because when you come down through the ball, the inertia of your swing will push your swing plane out. If you line the ball up in the center at address, you'll hit off the inside heel.
Now, we want to address the ball off of our left foot, put 2 clubs on the ground in a cross pattern. Put the ball at the top of the cross, and put your left foot at the bottom of the cross. That's where you want to be at address.
Ok, let's see what we've got. You're at address, you're at a comfortable distance between you and the ball, weights off your heels, and on your back leg. Ball is teed up higher than the face of the club, and is lined up left-of-center on the clubface. Your left foot is in line with the ball at address. Good!!
Ok....take a deep breath, and.....hold on....I see our time is up.
To be continued.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Of new clubs and flexibility
Of the most important items of note (that should come with every 400+cc driver) is that to use these clubs you MUST be flexible. I can't stress this enough. The day after hitting my new 400cc driver, my back muscles were tight.....and I consider myself above average in flexibility. Yes, it was a cold day that we played, and my motions were restricted by layering of clothes, but the issue still needs to be addressed.
There is only one time when you stretch to increase your flexibility: when your body temp is heated up. For example: look at your body as an ice cube; when it's cold its hard (inflexible); as soon as you warm it up it relaxes and melts (flexible).
The times I stretch is right AFTER a hot shower in the morning, and right AFTER exercise. Too many injuries occur by stretching cold....so don't do it....I don't care what any body tells you...don't do it.
Let's apply this to a day of golf. In the morning right after a shower, stretch. When you get to the course, hit some balls (preferably with your wedge), stop and stretch a little, then continue moving up the food chain with your clubs...each time stretching after each club.
Now, if you've never stretched before, one day of this is not going to do much for you, but if you make it a habit in your daily routine...say every time you get out of the shower...you will see fantastic results.
The reason flexibility has become so important is because of these new drivers. They all are equipped with longer shafts with the purpose of leveraging the swing speed. This all comes at a tremendous price to your back, which already hates you for playing this game in the first place.
Pay attention to what your body is saying, and you will have much more enjoyment playing with this new equipment.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
There is only one time when you stretch to increase your flexibility: when your body temp is heated up. For example: look at your body as an ice cube; when it's cold its hard (inflexible); as soon as you warm it up it relaxes and melts (flexible).
The times I stretch is right AFTER a hot shower in the morning, and right AFTER exercise. Too many injuries occur by stretching cold....so don't do it....I don't care what any body tells you...don't do it.
Let's apply this to a day of golf. In the morning right after a shower, stretch. When you get to the course, hit some balls (preferably with your wedge), stop and stretch a little, then continue moving up the food chain with your clubs...each time stretching after each club.
Now, if you've never stretched before, one day of this is not going to do much for you, but if you make it a habit in your daily routine...say every time you get out of the shower...you will see fantastic results.
The reason flexibility has become so important is because of these new drivers. They all are equipped with longer shafts with the purpose of leveraging the swing speed. This all comes at a tremendous price to your back, which already hates you for playing this game in the first place.
Pay attention to what your body is saying, and you will have much more enjoyment playing with this new equipment.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Monday, February 13, 2006
Equipment vs fitness
I hit my new driver Friday. After getting a few "bugs" out of the system the first few holes, I settled down and got into the groove with it. The larger head makes for more hittable contact...for sure.....but my stance has to be more grounded so I can hit that area.
Bottom line is I was easily getting it out there 20 yards from where I normally land the ball. The flight is alot prettier than the old low-bore flight plane. The high-fade arch also increased the roll after landing. I suspect that's where the big difference comes in.
So, I love the new driver, it sounds great (not tinny) the ball flies great, and the distance is superior to my old club. The best part is it was 40 degrees while I was playing. I'm excited to see what happens when I shed some clothes, and have more flexibility!!! I'll be going to the RTJ trail later this year, and am chompin' at the bit.
So, the next time someone tells you golfers today are much better than in years past.....look them in the eye, and tell them the equipment makes all the difference.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Bottom line is I was easily getting it out there 20 yards from where I normally land the ball. The flight is alot prettier than the old low-bore flight plane. The high-fade arch also increased the roll after landing. I suspect that's where the big difference comes in.
So, I love the new driver, it sounds great (not tinny) the ball flies great, and the distance is superior to my old club. The best part is it was 40 degrees while I was playing. I'm excited to see what happens when I shed some clothes, and have more flexibility!!! I'll be going to the RTJ trail later this year, and am chompin' at the bit.
So, the next time someone tells you golfers today are much better than in years past.....look them in the eye, and tell them the equipment makes all the difference.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Monday, February 06, 2006
Repetition breeds confidence
Ok, I was wrong about J.B. Holmes. That was compelling TV for a non-major.......this week. I like what I saw of him, and think he'll do very well.....as long as he stays flexible. The drive he hit on 18 made me cringe, not because it went so far, but because his uncoil was so violent. Let's just say I see pilates in his immediate, and forever future. His paycheck yesterday should ensure that he'll find an excellent instructor.
I want to focus on why he did so well this week. I've wrote about this in the past, and it bears repeating. On every shot he stood behind the ball and visualized his desired result. That is crucial for calming the nerves...all of which he did very well as evidenced by his large margin of victory. Another key element to his success was that every putt looked like a mirror image.....what I mean is that he addressed the ball in the same manner on every putt. This (just look at the results) calms the nerves as it blocks out everything, and lets you focus on the task at hand.
Finally, I loved the fact that his Dad was there for the final day. That had to be a dream come true for him and his father.
J.B. is immensly talented, I will be following his future travails.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
I want to focus on why he did so well this week. I've wrote about this in the past, and it bears repeating. On every shot he stood behind the ball and visualized his desired result. That is crucial for calming the nerves...all of which he did very well as evidenced by his large margin of victory. Another key element to his success was that every putt looked like a mirror image.....what I mean is that he addressed the ball in the same manner on every putt. This (just look at the results) calms the nerves as it blocks out everything, and lets you focus on the task at hand.
Finally, I loved the fact that his Dad was there for the final day. That had to be a dream come true for him and his father.
J.B. is immensly talented, I will be following his future travails.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short-grass.
JFB
Thursday, January 26, 2006
The power of visualization
Last night I watched the 1st of a 4-part episode of 'Blue Angels' on the Military Channel. As part of their training, the pilots sit around a table, close there eyes, and act out their flightplan for the upcoming air show. They do this everyday as part of their ritual.
The reason the pilots do this is so they are in a relaxed state when the real event takes place. They said that on the day of the show, it is routine in the air, because they have done it everyday in the drills on the ground.
How does this apply to golf?
When we are preparing to golf, our minds are everywhere. We're thinking about stretching, practicing...even paying the bill. But what we need to do is think about the golf course, think about how our swing feels, and think about how the course is laid out.
Practice this drill:
When you are at a golf course you play alot, take the scorecard home with you. The next time you know you're going to play that golf course pull out the scorecard and review it in your mind's eye.
Close your eyes, and play the course. Go from your set-up to where the shot lands on the green, from addressing the putt to the ball dropping in the cup.
You will feel more comfortable when the real scoring begins. Make sure you bet big, because you WILL have a great day on the golf course!
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short grass.
JFB
The reason the pilots do this is so they are in a relaxed state when the real event takes place. They said that on the day of the show, it is routine in the air, because they have done it everyday in the drills on the ground.
How does this apply to golf?
When we are preparing to golf, our minds are everywhere. We're thinking about stretching, practicing...even paying the bill. But what we need to do is think about the golf course, think about how our swing feels, and think about how the course is laid out.
Practice this drill:
When you are at a golf course you play alot, take the scorecard home with you. The next time you know you're going to play that golf course pull out the scorecard and review it in your mind's eye.
Close your eyes, and play the course. Go from your set-up to where the shot lands on the green, from addressing the putt to the ball dropping in the cup.
You will feel more comfortable when the real scoring begins. Make sure you bet big, because you WILL have a great day on the golf course!
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short grass.
JFB
Monday, January 23, 2006
Match Play strategies
When I was on the High School golf team, our coach always introduced us to ways to 'jar' our opponent. The classics were the dropping your club on the guys back-swing, timely coughs or sneezes, and others....the list goes on and on. I thought my coach was a genius.
That was until I met Buddy.
It was a late afternoon and I wanted to get in a round so I joined up with this fellow golfer, as he and I were the only ones around. We played the first 5 even par. We played with a good speed. It was quiet out, and I was enjoying the company (the little side-bet we had going helped as well). ;-)
That's when it happened.
Coming up the hill to the par 5 15th hole, we were dead-even at minus 5. I had just stoked a 3 wood within 5 feet for a possible eagle, his third shot landed in the bunker. As he landed 4 feet away for his possible bird, I surveyed me putt. As I was addressing the ball, I heard a pffffft...followed by a longer thffftttttpp. Shocked, I backed away to regroup. Buddy was on the side of the green looking timid. "Must've been that hot dog I had at the turn" he said sheepishly. I went back to addressing the ball, but my mind was on my flatulent partner.
You can guess what happened next.
Of course I pulled my putt, Buddy drained his bird...and we proceded to the next hole. On my next backswing, he let out another flatulent abomination that I think was heard by the group on the 5th tee. Well, let's just say that it went downhill for me after that. All I could think about was his gas. I promptly lost all the remaining holes to him.
After paying up, I sulked to the locker room.
I told my story to one of the attendants. "Looks like you got pilfered by Flatulent Buddy." He grinned.
He told me that Buddy was State Champion back in the day, and that he used all kinds of 'jarring' techniques to win match play tournaments. "As he grew older," the attendant went on, "he found it easier to just stick to one tried-and-true method....and that was flatulence."
So pack some beano. The next time your playing with a guy that orders a gastronomic sampling at the turn, you'll be prepared to face Flatulent Buddy.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short grass,
JFB
That was until I met Buddy.
It was a late afternoon and I wanted to get in a round so I joined up with this fellow golfer, as he and I were the only ones around. We played the first 5 even par. We played with a good speed. It was quiet out, and I was enjoying the company (the little side-bet we had going helped as well). ;-)
That's when it happened.
Coming up the hill to the par 5 15th hole, we were dead-even at minus 5. I had just stoked a 3 wood within 5 feet for a possible eagle, his third shot landed in the bunker. As he landed 4 feet away for his possible bird, I surveyed me putt. As I was addressing the ball, I heard a pffffft...followed by a longer thffftttttpp. Shocked, I backed away to regroup. Buddy was on the side of the green looking timid. "Must've been that hot dog I had at the turn" he said sheepishly. I went back to addressing the ball, but my mind was on my flatulent partner.
You can guess what happened next.
Of course I pulled my putt, Buddy drained his bird...and we proceded to the next hole. On my next backswing, he let out another flatulent abomination that I think was heard by the group on the 5th tee. Well, let's just say that it went downhill for me after that. All I could think about was his gas. I promptly lost all the remaining holes to him.
After paying up, I sulked to the locker room.
I told my story to one of the attendants. "Looks like you got pilfered by Flatulent Buddy." He grinned.
He told me that Buddy was State Champion back in the day, and that he used all kinds of 'jarring' techniques to win match play tournaments. "As he grew older," the attendant went on, "he found it easier to just stick to one tried-and-true method....and that was flatulence."
So pack some beano. The next time your playing with a guy that orders a gastronomic sampling at the turn, you'll be prepared to face Flatulent Buddy.
Thanks for reading, keep it in the short grass,
JFB
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