Golf Tips: Trust Big Muscles Under Pressure

Whether in our club championship, a tournament, a match, or simply a game against the regular weekend buddies, pressure can be a big part of golf.  How we deal with that pressure and how our minds and bodies react to that pressure can make the difference between winning and losing. Accept First, we must accept that we feel pressure.  It is okay to be nervous.  In fact, it is a good thing. That's our body and mind telling us they are in a heightened state.  It tells us we really value the moment. Small Muscles When we are under pressure our big muscles don't move well and the smaller muscles can take over.  The smaller muscles move quicker and move in many more directions, which can be a recipe for disaster. We might twitch or produce jerky movements in the full swing or in putting.  We become more dependent on hands and arms in the swing, rather than the big muscles and the body. Big Muscles When we are under pressure it is best to concentrate on the big muscles and how they are moving.  Make sure the swing is initiated by big movements, not small muscles or single areas like the nands.  The transitions in the swing should be done via big muscles and big movements, no one small part like the hands or arms. Take some practice swings with a full shoulder turn and concentrate on the body rotation, not its individual parts. Commit to the shot and make sure the small muscles are under control and the big muscles are doing the work.  The swings will be more consistent, more powerful, and more dependable.