How Watching Golf Can Make You A Better Golfer
We know not all who play golf like to watch golf, but for those who do, there may be benefits to your own game too. If you’re paying attention, you can learn a lot to improve your golf swing, grip, putting performance and more from listening to course commentators and watching the pros.
ON THE TEE
Right from the start you’ll hear commentators discussing and breaking down a golfer’s stance, their strategy for the first shot, and their finish. Thinking about your own strategy for each hole, even just for a few seconds, can make a big difference. If you know there’s danger on a hole if you hit driver, you might consider hitting a 3-wood instead. Stop for a minute, consider your strategy, and then proceed.
IN THE FAIRWAY
Players end up with all sorts of lies in the fairway. Often, a great shot for pros and for us rolls right into someone else’s fairway divot. If you pay attention, commentators will always tell you the best way to play that shot, if a professional is in that situation.
Another common situation is ending up under a tree, or needing to keep a shot low in order to avoid limbs ahead. While some may know to play the shot further back in your stance, grip down on the club, and hit something a little less lofted, others might not know that. If you don’t already know that, you’ll learn it watching golf!
SANDTRAPS
Let’s face it: most of us will never be able to execute the sandtrap shots that many pro golfers do. They have unbelievable skill at getting a ball to spin, coming out of a sandtrap. For us, though, we can still gain valuable information about opening the club face, determining where to aim the shot, and how to use a steeper or shallower swing, depending on the situation. Paying attention to what those on-course analysts are saying can benefit you the next time you’re in a sandtrap situation.
ON THE GREEN
If you’re really focused on a round of professional golf, you’ll see a dozen different putting grips in no time at all. Have you practiced different putting grips? Each has its own benefits if you struggle with short putts. How do you read a green? Need some ideas? Watch the pros!
Finally, watching golf is a great reminder of many of the rules we follow as far as yellow and red penalty areas, out of bounds, etc. You’ll also be reminded of the camaraderie that develops during a round, the many fun benefits of being out in nature, and the pure joy in making a great shot!
Learn more about the rules, handicaps, and the USGA here.