The Art of Consistent Golf Improvement

(00:01) Importance of Consistency in Golf Improvement

This chapter explores the challenges of maintaining consistency in golf performance, especially when students fail to practice what they learn during lessons. I, John Ashton, along with Golf Magazine Top 100 teacher Jeff Smith, discuss the common issue where students see immediate improvement in lessons but fail to sustain it due to a lack of discipline in practicing outside of class. Jeff shares a story about a student who experienced significant improvement during lessons but regressed because he didn't incorporate the taught techniques into his routine. We emphasize the importance of doing the necessary homework and ask students to engage with their coaches actively to develop effective practice habits. Jeff highlights the need for students to take notes, ask questions, and consistently apply what they learn to avoid repeating the same lessons. Ultimately, the key to consistent improvement lies in integrating the learned skills into a regular practice routine.

(08:21) Pre-Shot Routine and Golf Improvement

This chapter explores the significance of a pre-shot routine in golf, with insights shared by Jeff Smith, a top 100 golf instructor. We discuss how consistency in preparation, like ensuring correct ball and foot placement, can lead to better results on the course. Through anecdotes, we illustrate how golfers can improve their game by adhering to these routines, comparing it to the repeated efforts required to pass college courses. We also share a light-hearted look at the peculiar mix of businesses along the Tamiami Trail in Florida, reflecting on the unexpected blend of luxury and everyday establishments. Overall, we emphasize the importance of practicing diligently to achieve continuous improvement in golf.

(14:35) Improving Golf Swing in Simple Steps

This chapter focuses on the fundamentals of golf swing mechanics, emphasizing the importance of alignment, posture, and grip to improve consistency and performance. I share insights from a coaching session with a golfer who initially struggled due to perceived physical limitations. By assessing his natural body movements and setting him up in a way that aligned with his capabilities, we improved his swing effortlessly. This approach highlighted how often golfers create their own obstacles by setting up incorrectly. Through simple adjustments and understanding one's body mechanics, the golfer was able to achieve a more efficient and effective swing, resulting in increased confidence and success on the course.

(23:54) Golf Grip and Targeting Systems

This chapter covers the nuances of golf grips and how they can impact a player's swing and shot accuracy. We explore a scenario where a right-handed golfer uses a thumb-on-top grip, typically ineffective for hitting a straight shot, likening it to techniques better suited for activities like chopping wood. The conversation highlights the importance of a proper grip and pre-shot routine, emphasizing that many golfers mistakenly blame their swing for errant shots when club face angle and setup play a crucial role. Through humorous anecdotes and insights from working with golfers and military rifle trainers, we illustrate how understanding the relationship between swing direction, club face angle, and targeting systems can transform a player's game, removing doubt and enhancing precision on the course.

(30:31) Improving Targeting System in Golf

This chapter explores the intricacies of targeting systems in golf, particularly focusing on bunker shots. We discuss the importance of positioning and swing direction to ensure sand is thrown toward the target, thus reducing risk and improving accuracy. By adjusting the body and club face alignment, golfers can better match the swing path to the intended target. Additionally, we highlight how the position of the ball in the swing arc affects the outcome, suggesting that a forward ball position can lead to more successful shots. In a practical illustration, I share a personal experience on a challenging par three, demonstrating how applying these lessons—such as assessing wind direction and selecting the appropriate club—led to a successful shot while others fell short.

(35:56) Club Selection and Ego in Golf

This chapter takes us through the nuances of golf club selection and the importance of understanding one's own capabilities on the course. We explore a personal experience where I opted for a four hybrid club despite advice to the contrary and achieved a successful shot, emphasizing the value of over-clubbing in certain situations. I discuss an upcoming session with a Korn Ferry Tour player who is grappling with a minor swing issue that has major effects on his performance, particularly on long par threes over water. The conversation highlights the common tendency among golfers to underestimate the importance of club choice and overestimate their own hitting distances, often leading to poor decisions and mistakes. By sharing anecdotes of playing partners and their habits, I underline the impact of ego and habitual thinking on golf performance, suggesting practical ways to manage expectations and avoid costly errors.

(41:25) Instructor Advice and Ego in Golf

This chapter explores the challenges and nuances of receiving and applying advice in golf, particularly focusing on the impact of ego and pride in learning. We discuss the differences in how men and women handle advice, noting that women often ask more questions and admit when they need help. I emphasize the importance of developing a consistent routine to build confidence, such as checking the club face and taking practice swings, to ensure a balanced and powerful swing. Ultimately, the key takeaway is the importance of working on the specific areas your instructor advises, which will lead to significant improvement in your game.