Summer Transition

This month's tip is a small number of tips designed to help you through the transition of winter grass to summer grass.

Putting:

1. Position the golf ball more in the center of your stance.
   
2. Position more weight on your front (left) foot.
   
3. Position the grip end of the putter slightly in front of the golf ball.
   
4. Stroke the ball with a short, crisp back swing and pop the ball on the forward swing.
   

Sand Play:

1. Position the golf ball more in the front of your stance.
   
2. Dig in your heels only.
   
3. Position your weight 70% on your left foot.
   
4. Aim 1 inch behind the golf ball.
   
5. Swing hard!
   

Fairway play:

1. Position the golf ball farther back than normal in your stance.
   
2. Play less lofted clubs to keep your ball flight low and under control.
   
3. Choke up on the club of choice; maintaining control is critical.
   
4. Strive to stay in the fairway even if that means taking a club that you know will not give you the distance required to reach your target.
   

Driving:

1. Tee the ball slightly lower than normal.
   
2. Position the ball opposite your left chest.
   
3. Grip the club a little firmer.
   
4. Position your weight more on your back (right) foot.
   
5. Swing under control to maintain accuracy.
   

Forward Swing Distance Tip

Here is a distance tip that focuses on the forward swing. Practice this drill and I guarantee that you will increase your club head speed which is an important factor for distance.

1. Take your normal stance and address position.
2. Lift up the toe of your left foot.
3. Pivot your left foot toward the target as far as you can.
4. Put your left foot on the ground. It should be pointing towards the target.
5. Take some practice swings to get used to the massive rotation to a nice finish position.
6. Now hit some shots with a 7 iron. Start slow and gradually build up your speed.

After several swings you will notice that your swing speed has increased, keep following the above drill and your swing will be much faster in a month or so. Like all drills, do 5 reps of the drill and then 2 normal. This will help blend the drill into your normal swing. Good luck and good golfing!  

Cold Weather Considerations

This is the coldest month of the year in Central Florida. There are many things that you can do to make your game more enjoyable and maintain your skill level.

1. Dress in layers. Layers in Florida are especially important because a day that starts in the 40's might end up in the 70's. It also helps with insulating the body against the cold north wind.
2. Wear gloves when you are not hitting the ball. Keeping your hands warm is vital in maintaining your ability to feel the club head. Feeling the club head is a very important component of the golf swing and more importantly the short game.
3. Warm up before you play. That is a given even in normal weather conditions, but in adverse weather conditions it is even more important. Take the time, your body will thank you and your score will thank and reward you!
4. On the course, the golf ball will not go as far. Take at least one more club and swing within yourself. The added clothing will restrict your turn and decrease your swing speed. Even out your tempo and you will make solid contact. That is vital to ensure that you are able to keep your score within your handicap range.

Follow the four tips above and you will be able to enjoy the cooler winter weather. Remember golf is an internal and external challenge. Accept those challenges and you will become the best player you can be. Good luck and good golfing!!