People have different opinions about playing golf alone, but I for one love it. If nothing else, it gives me time on my own and a chance to practice different shots without anyone telling me what they think I’m doing wrong!
I hear lots of poor advice being passed on between players out on the course, and if you’re playing on your own you can happily avoid it for a while! For example, one of the most said things in golf is “keep your head down”, we’ve all heard it and then probably even said it to ourselves when addressing the ball – but actually it’s one of the worst things you can do. Keeping your head down too long stops your body moving through impact, which is a very dangerous thing to do. If you do, it’s really easy to hit lots of shots left if you’re right-handed – and if you’re playing golf alone and your head remained down, how would you ever know where to look for your ball?
Other benefits of playing on your own include you getting to choose how long you want to play for, and you can hit another ball without penalty if the last shot didn’t go to plan (obviously without holding up anyone behind, of course!).
Also, if you get a hole in one you don’t have to tell anyone, therefore avoiding buying a round of drinks for everyone in the clubhouse, and you do get to win every time you play!
Seriously though, the different things you can try when the pressure is off really can change the way you play golf for the better. For example, try playing the hole ‘backwards’, which would go like this – hit a wedge off the tee, then a wood to the green, try various lofted clubs when it comes to chipping and even putt with a wedge – you’ll be amazed by the benefits of doing this.
Play with just one club, this takes away decision making and opens up your mind to different possibilities. Like playing safe on a hole that you may struggle on in normal play, or taking a half swing because you’ve got way too much club which will give you a great understanding of your swing and what you’re capable of.
You could really create a brand new strategy for the next time you play in a medal. If you’re not holding up play and your club allows it, when you’re out on your own play 3 or 4 balls on each hole and hit 4 different clubs off the tee. Lay up to different areas and hit running shots into the green instead of the high shots you may normally play, keep count of the shots you play with each ball and see which method gives you the best results, you may just knock several shots off your normal score.
Remember the health benefits as well, walking 9 holes is far better than sitting around if there’s no one to play against – and you could always speed up your walk between shots to give yourself a cardio workout. Don’t rush your shots though or you might as well just go for a brisk walk. Why not even go out early in the morning when it’s quiet – imagine if you tee off at 5.30am you’ll be finished by 7ish – and what a way that is to start the day!
In summary, the next time you see a person playing alone don’t think ‘oh there’s old Billy No Mates’, because they might just be out there getting the edge on you!
What do I always say….PLAY, LEARN, WIN!
Remember, I’m always here if you need any help with your game, enjoy the sun whilst it lasts and see if playing alone now and again can improve your game.
Julian is a highly respected Golf Coach who works with players of all standards to improve the way they play the game. To find out how he can help you, and learn all about what the Julian Mellor Golf School has to offer, please visit www.julianmellorgolfschool.co.uk
Julian Mellor PGA Professional
