Pre-Round Golf Preparation: Optimize Your Game for Success

Before playing, you must first prepare to play. You should arrive at the course at least 45 minutes before your tee time. By the time you get to your golf bag, after checking in with the pro shop and starter, you will have approximately 30 minutes to prepare yourself to play. This time should be divided as follows: 20 minutes for short game - putting, chipping, pitching, sand, and 10 minutes on the driving range swinging at least 3 different length clubs. The short game preparation will give you a feel for the speed and firmness of the greens, allowing you to putt your best and know how far the ball will roll with different clubs from different distances. The range preparation will show you how your body is working that day and what ball flight is being produced. Then you have a choice, either play what you see, or introduce a swing thought to produce what you want to see. Now that you are prepared, it's time to play.