Master the mental game and become a Swing King
Don’t ever try to tell me golf is not 99.9 % a mental game - Jack Nicklaus
Every golfer knows how crucial the mental game is for focus and overall performance. But can it actually help your swing consistency?
Here's some tips to sharpen your mental game during net practice at home. Most can be transferred on course without raising too many eyebrows!
It's the Process...
Practising with a net at home helps you let go of attachment to outcomes or scores. Instead, use each net session to focus on just one aspect of your swing such as tempo and balance.
Pre-Swing Schtick
Develop your pre-swing routine at home without the distractions of a range or course. Repeating your routine builds consistency which can be replicated under pressure.
Take a breather
Take a moment between shots to practice some breathwork. Simple breathwork techniques can help calm the mind and regulate your nervous system, fostering inner balance before you swing.
The power of presence
Golf is not kind to over thinkers, but net hitting lets you practice staying in the moment. Focus on just one swing element or your breathing to eliminate mental clutter.
Golf is not kind to over thinkers, but net hitting lets you practice staying in the moment. Focus on just one swing element or your breathing to eliminate mental clutter.
Mantras / womantras
Positive mantras / womantras or self-talk phrases can help you focus. Affirmations such as ‘I trust my swing’ or ‘I am the Swing King / Queen’ can boost your mental resilience and confidence.
Bodyscan meditation
A bodyscan meditation can relax your body and clear your mind. Start with your toes and move upward, clenching and relaxing each muscle group to release tension before you swing.
For most of us, golf is a competitive pursuit, but that doesn’t mean competing against yourself! Improving the mental game provides tools to stay focused on swing fundamentals in pressure situations.
It might just be the key to unlocking your inner Swing King!
