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October 2008
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INSTRUCTION

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It All Adds Up

Here are 5 common misconceptions and how correcting them can improve your score.

By SANDRA PALMERPublished: October, 2007

Some mistaken beliefs can hurt your golf game. In teaching golf, the instructor has to break through these barriers when a student comes for a lesson.

Some common misconceptions are:

Keep your left arm straight
Trying to keep your left arm straight in the backswing creates tension. I'd like to see your left arm straight at impact. That's where it counts.

Keep your head down
This is one belief that really hurts golfers, and it's the biggest excuse to explain a terrible shot. By the time you've looked up, you've already made the mistake that caused your poor shot. Keeping your head down too long can lead to a reverse weight shift and  eliminate your rotation or freedom to get through the shot.

Don't worry about the fundamentals
The fundamentals of grip, posture, ball position, alignment and balance are critical. The fundamentals must be practiced and shouldn't be taken for granted.

Think your way around the course
Thinking creates tension, which hinders success. Train to trust your swing, and practice correctly to learn muscle memory. Get in a good setup and visualize what you want the ball to do. Learn to focus your mind on the target and concentrate on the "where" instead of the "how."

Trust is so important when you have a good swing. In golf, a tiny change can make a big difference. Guard against overdoing any radical changes that could have a negative impact on your ability to trust and carry out what needs to be done.

Practice doesn't matter
You have to practice all phases of your game. The short game requires good technique and visualization, and be sure to stick to your on-course routine on the range. It has to be automatic when you step on the first tee. Be prepared.
Start from behind the ball. Pick an intermediate target between you and your line or target. Walk up to the ball and place the clubhead down first on your correct line behind the ball. Now set your feet parallel to the clubhead.

Visualize a railroad track and get set. Take a look at your target, swing away and hold the finish. You should be perfectly balanced and not falling back to help the ball in the air.  SG

Sandra Palmer is director of women's golf at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo. She won 30 professional tournaments worldwide during her playing career, including three major championships. She can be reached at (949) 305-5100.

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