Whether you’ve already started our program and you’re trying to change your technique, or you’re looking to start soon but you’re not sure what to expect, this blog can help you understand the type of training and mindset required to get through the first stage of our program, the building phase.
G60 offers a 3-phase system to help you improve your technique and skill, get confident under pressure and take control of your golf game. The first phase is the building phase, where (if necessary) you improve the fundamentals of your swing and build a strong foundation for your golf skills.
Some players jump the gun in this phase, whether it’s through a lack of patience, or a lack of understanding of what it takes to improve. This can ultimately lead to frustration. In this blog, we'll discuss some key tips for training effectively during the building phase of the G60 program.
1. Focus on Technique
During the building phase, it's important to focus on your technique rather than worrying about your scores. By focusing on technique, you'll be able to build a solid foundation for your golf skills, which will ultimately lead to better scores down the line. Be aware that your skill level may initially drop during this phase, because your focus has switched from striking the ball to focusing on HOW you’re moving or HOW the club is moving. This is normal, and it’s nothing to worry about.
2. Use Block Practice
Block practice is a type of practice where you repeat the same skill over and over again. This type of practice is particularly effective during the building phase because it allows you to develop muscle memory and refine your technique.
Start by practicing slowly and eventually building up to full speed. Make sure you're repeating the same skill over and over again, with a focus on whatever your coach has told you to specifically focus on that week.
3. Get Regular Guidance from a Coach
During the building phase, it's important to have the regular guidance of a coach. We can help you identify areas where you need improvement and provide you with feedback on your technique. We can also help you set realistic expectations for your progress and keep you motivated throughout the process. This guidance is in person at the supervised practice sessions, and online using the app.
4. Manage Your Expectations
Changing a motor pattern is hard, so it's important to manage your expectations during the building phase. You're not going to become a tour player overnight, so it's important to focus on small changes each week. These small changes will eventually add up to big improvements in your game. Patience is also key here, try to enjoy the process of incremental growth.
5. Control Your Emotions
Finally, it's important to control your emotions during the building phase. Golf can be a frustrating game, but getting angry or upset when you hit a bad shot is counterproductive. Instead of analysing and emotionally reacting to each individual shot, use your practice sessions to focus on the bigger picture and instead of reacting, ask yourself questions after each shot.
For example:
“I struck that shot badly but did I feel the new movement my coach was asking me to feel?”
“Did I do slow repetitions in between shots to really feel the new movement?”
Or…
“I hit that shot to the right, did I strengthen my grip enough?”
Accept that bad shots are part of the process, have a great attitude and you’ll set yourself up with a much better chance of improving.