Submitted by:  Lynn Marriott
Profession:  Coaching for the Future Inc
City:  Phoenix, AZ

Goal:  Shape and commit to the shot before set up

Activity:  The next time you tune into a Tour event, watch the pros' pre-shot routines. Note the pace of each routine, how it starts slowly and methodically, and ends quickly. That's the opposite of most amateur's routines. They waste very little time getting to the ball, but take forever to hit it. Why? Because they don't prepare until they're standing over the ball. By that point, the Tour player has a clear idea of the target line and the shot he or she wants to hit.

If you don't have a pre-shot routine, develop one now. Then, practice planning the shot before you step up to the ball. For example, I have students practice their routines in what we call the "Think Box." In this box you should be gathering information about the shot: What is my target? What kind of shot do I want? Which club should I use? Once you've stepped over the "Decision Line", commit to the shot and your aim. That way, once you reach the "Play" portion of the box, you're ready to go. There's no turning back now; all the information has been processed, and you're ready to swing.

Commentary:  If you wait until you are standing over the ball to decide on the target and shot you want to hit, you give your body a chance to get tense.  You also have a better chance of getting distracted and making last second changes.