It’s probably one of the most commonly taught phrases across various sports. You heard it repeatedly if you were ever involved in sports. The phrase, of course, is “keep your eye on the ball”.
And you know what, there is a reason it is so fundamental across various sports. It is essential to master this seemingly simple task in order to excel at almost all sports (that involve a ball of course). In golf it is indeed a magic phrase. Because in golf its just you and the ball. You don’t have to worry about anyone tackling you, throwing a ball at you at 90 mph, or positioning yourself so a well placed cross court shot doesn’t leave you scrambling.
In golf it's simple, keep your eye on the ball or your chance of a solid shot becomes very slim.
How to Keep Your Eye on the Ball
Once you’ve lined up your shot and are in your stance turn your focus totally on the ball. Keep your eyes focused on the center of the ball. Don’t look at your club, even during your waggle. Become more and more focused on the ball to the point that you're looking at a particular dimple or spot on the ball. If you read my previous article on balance, you should also be very relaxed and your head should be perfectly still.
Resist the natural impulse to look away from the ball when you pull the club back. When you are looking down at the ball, you should notice that the only way you can keep the club head in the correct line of flight is to keep your hands moving parallel to the flight line. Keep your hands in line with the club head when making contact with the ball. At the moment of impact notice whether or not you are still looking at the ball. Most people change their focus to swinging the club and cannot remember whether they were looking at the ball or not at contact.
If you know you were looking at the ball at impact you probably will be pleased with your shot. If the shot was not solid it probably means you head was moving and you did not maintain your balance. Reread my article on balance.
This advice applies to all situations on the course, no matter what kind of shot you need to make. It does not matter if the ball is in the long grass, the sand trap, on a slope, or anywhere else, the main thing is to see the ball completely so that you can hit it solidly and successfully.
Most golf mistakes are a result of a loss of concentration. It you keep your focus on the ball, you should be able to hit the ball well.
Again, like anything else worthwhile, it will take practice to stay focused through your swing. But in time you will find your golf game improving and before you know it your friends will be asking for advice!
Bruce Clark is a small business owner, free lance writer, and an avid weekend golfer.
For more articles by Bruce and other golfers that will help you improve your game visit http://makemygamebetter.com
