Taking too long to hit the ball

Original topic by Ross — 2022-12-15T23:42:10Z
EmailsToRoss — Apr 19, 2016

Hey Ross,

I have an issue where I take too long in my pre-shot routine with every club, especially on my tee shots. I know it’s because I’m overthinking, and it’s something I’m fully aware of, but I cannot seem to just step up and hit, even when I try on the range.

I’m pretty decent, usually shooting somewhere between 95 and 105, and it’s only my fifth year playing. But I know this issue is annoying the friends I play with, as well as being detrimental to my shots and my ability to relax when I’m about to hit the ball.

Any ideas on how I can shorten my pre-shot routine and confidently hit the ball without so much thinking?

Thanks in advance for your help. Great app, by the way!

My best,
Eric

Hi Eric,

Your routine should last about 12–14 seconds. As you stand about four steps behind your ball, look at the target and “visualize” the shot you want in your mind. Once you decide, GO. Walk up to the ball. Sit down, balanced, keeping the clubhead just slightly off the ground. Then “look” at the target one time to see the shot again. When your face and eyes come back to the ball, GO.

The most important part is that you must know what body part starts your swing. With my method, the “front shoulder” or “both shoulders” turn first. THE SHOULDERS MUST START THE BACKSWING.

So, practice—even without a club—looking at a target and letting your face come back to the ball. Then think, “FRONT SHOULDER.”

You must put in the time—25 times in the morning and 25 times in the evening—practicing the start of the backswing so you’re comfortable and it becomes AUTOMATIC. It won’t become automatic until you put in the time to teach your shoulder to start!

Then practice the whole routine:

  1. Visualize.
  2. Walk up.
  3. Sit down.
  4. Look at the target.
  5. Look back at the ball… “SHOULDERS.”

Your front shoulder can push, and your back shoulder can pull up toward your spine.

Then, on the course, tell yourself, “Follow your routine.” And you will, because you’ve practiced it and know what to do.

HINT: Do not arbitrarily add anything to or subtract anything from your routine. Learn to have the discipline to follow your routine. It will pay off.