THE OBJECT OF GOLF
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.
YOUR APPOINTMENT
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.
INFORMATION ABOUT YOURSELF
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.
YOUR 1st LESSON.
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.
BE PREPARED FOR YOUR LESSON
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.
HOW LONG IN BETWEEN LESSONS?
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.
YOUR LESSON PROGRESS - KEEPING RECORDS
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.
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
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.
YOUR IMPROVEMENT PLAN
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.
YOUR DEVELOPMENT
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.
INSTRUCT, COACH!
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.
YOUR EXPECTATIONS
Expectations are always high after a lesson. There
is excitement and an urgency to go out and try the new swing. Realize
that:
1) There is usually regression before progression.
2) It takes time for the muscles to accept what you are telling
them to do.
3) Be patient. Allow plenty of time for your new technique to develop.
4) The old swing will not disappear in half an hour, especially
when it took you years to develop it.
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