Golf is a game in which you are provided 14 clubs with which to send a small ball into a cup, at differing distances, over all kinds of obstacles, in the fewest number of swings. It is my job as the instructor, to make your swing as simple as possible, and make your thoughts and concepts clear. You can then avoid most of the obstacles, learn to manage your golf game, and have a wonderful time playing golf.
Lessons should be booked in advance. Leave your phone number in case there is a change in scheduling. Be on time. If you cannot make the lesson time, please call to cancel. You may be charged for the lesson if no call is made.
If you are taking a first time lesson or if there has been significant changes since your last lesson, fill out the lesson questionnaire. I would like to know many details about your past golf history and your expectations for the future. I should know if you have any physical restrictive problems, or if a particular aspect of your game is troubling you.
After we have talked about the information you have given me, I will watch you hit a few shots until you feel comfortable. While you are hitting balls I will analyze your swing. I will then explain and show you what is happening and why it is happening and will describe and demonstrate what you will need to do to make your corrections. You will then apply it yourself. The fundamentals of the swing will always be stressed.
Arrive early. Do some stretching exercises, hit a few balls or swing a club. All athletes warm up before performing, you should too. It will give your lesson more time and prevent injury.
Only a short period of time should pass before each lesson. This will help you to remember “the feel” of what you have been taught. It is unlikely one lesson can help very much, but a well planned program will usually provide the progress you are looking for.
Specific practice assignments will be given to you and you should stick to them. Either through the video tape, or concise notes, you will have a record of my analysis. I highly recommend you make your own notes after each lesson, writing down how you feel about the changes.
Bring all of your golf clubs. If you do not have clubs I will provide them. I strongly recommend that you buy a set of clubs that fits your swing. The correct clubs can make a dramatic difference to your game. Wear golf shoes, and if you use a glove, we recommend you use one in your lesson.
This should include the four areas we divide golf into: Ball Striking, Short Game, Psychological skills. and Management skills. Some of these skills are better learned on the practice tee, but playing lessons are vitally important also. Golf is a mixture of the four basic areas mentioned above, and as we improve, the mental side of golf becomes increasingly important. The most dramatic improvement will come with short game corrections, and your time spent practicing in this area will be critical to your improvement.
When a person is developing new skills it is imperative that he clearly conceptualizes the new moves. You must grasp the basic fundamentals. As soon as you have achieved such mastery you can apply it. Right now you will be laying the foundation on which you are going to build the best swing you can make.
After an instructor explains what to do he will spend much of the time coaching you. We all need constant reminding until the new technique is solidly embedded, a habit. I will be reinforcing constantly with a heavy emphasis on the key points. It will be a team effort between coach and player until it is ingrained. I can’t hit the ball for you, but I can show you how.
Expectations are always high after a lesson. There is excitement and an urgency to go out and try the new swing. Realize that:
