4 Essentials Of Effective Pitching Pre-Shot Routine

The secret of golf is repetition and consistency, repetition of a good shot whether driver, iron or putter. Consistency comes from practice and a strong mental approach but nothing will go well without having the correct basics. Pressure seems to get to even the best professionals at times so you should not be too disappointed if it gets to you. However you should give yourself the best chance of success by understanding the importance of the pre-shot routine. You will be familiar with the position you are in and therefore in the best possible shape to handle the consequent pressure.

Evaluation

Your evaluation can actually begin as you are walking down the fairway towards your ball. It does not mean you are being anti-social to be thinking about your next shot while you are talking to your fellow golfers. As you walk you will see the challenge you face and perhaps get a better view of the terrain before you reach your ball. Once you arrive at the ball you should take a look at the lie and the distance you want to hit the ball before you ever take a club from your bag. Your pitch shot to the green may be affected by any wind or obstacles between the ball and the pins; that means normal, higher or lower than usual.

Decision

Once you have decided on your shot, you can then take out your preferred club. You must select your line, not necessarily directly at the pin and visualise hitting the ball as you intend.

Grip and Practice Swing

A practice swing is essential to find the tempo that you need to hit the shot you are seeking. This practice swing should be exactly how you will swing when you are actually over the ball. Only hit the ball when your body and mind are ready for the challenge.

Set Up and Swing

You need to go through your regular routine. That includes your stance and the position of the ball in that stance. There are some differences depending on the shot you have selected; a little open for a high pitch for example but perhaps narrower for a pitch and run?

It’s now a matter of hitting the ball. If you practice regularly and have hit a similar shot consistently in the past, the pressure to do it again are minimal but never get over-confident.