How to Deal With Tension at Address in Golf

You can’t play golf with much skill if your mind is tense and your muscles are tight. As in most athletic endeavors, a well-executed golf swing requires you to be loose and relaxed but in control. This requires that you be calm in your mind, soft in your muscles and focused on your goal. Your goal is not to hit the golf ball; it is to make the golf ball arrive at its intended destination.

Instructions

    • 1

      Approach your ball from behind, looking at the target and visualizing the shot. Your mind’s eye should “see” the shot before you hit it.

    • 2

      Choose a spot on the ground within a few feet of the ball, along the target line.

    • 3

      Take your normal golf grip. Holding the club too tightly is one of the worst tension inducers. If 10 is the tightest grip, hold the club at a grip tension of no more than 4. Picture holding a small bird in your hands.

    • 4

      Take your stance and align the club head with your target spot.

    • 5

      Position your feet properly for the club you are using. The ball should be opposite the inside of your front foot for a driver. It should be moved more toward the center of your stance as the clubs get shorter.

    • 6

      Bend your knees slightly and feel like you are just starting to sit down. Your stance should feel relaxed and athletic. Picture a quarterback’s position under the center waiting for the snap of the ball.

    • 7

      Keeping the target in mind, waggle the club above the ground. Many players find it helpful to keep the club above the ground before hitting the ball. The goal is to keep your hands and arms relaxed and free of tension.

    • 8

      Develop a “trigger” that starts the club back smoothly and slowly. This could be a final waggle, or a subtle forward press of the legs. Don’t linger over the ball and allow tension to creep into your mind.

    • 9

      Swing the club through the ball as if you were throwing it toward the target. Stay relaxed and balanced and don’t attempt to hit the ball hard. Let the club do the work.