Training Aids?

[Tech]

I've been playing for only 2 seasons and still have a pretty high handicap of about 25.( I say "about" because the only way I know how to do it is by seeing my averge game and how much over-par I am)

I've taken three lessons with a PGA pro and it helped me become more consistant on my iron play and lower my handicap to it's current spot.

I've noticed all the training aids out there, and although some look like gimicks, some look like they can really help. I'm currently thinking about getting the "Inside Approach" I figure it can help with my driving and iron play consistancy(or lack thereof )

Anyone ever use it, or have one they recommend, or highly DONT recommend?

Thanks!

[Maverick]

I've seen the infomercials to on the Inside Approach. I like it if you are having problem coming from the inside..or are swinging out to in.

[iacas]

  Maverick said:

I've seen the infomercials to on the Inside Approach. I like it if you are having problem coming from the inside..or are swinging out to in.

I'm also a big fan of making your own training aids. Lay a headcover down outside your ball. Voilà! Instant "Inside Approach."

[Touredgegal]

I started back at golf last April and tried several. The one item I really appreciate having is the David Leadbetter Swing Setter. It was a key factor in improving my follow through. I also think Erik is right-on with self created aids. I swing the 5,6,7 irons together when I'm warming up. The extra weight really does help get the swing flow smooth as well as helps the body to stretch. I did try other aids like the clubs that swivel on the shaft but found my swing rarely if ever broke the swivel so I sent them back.

[Rafcin]

  Tech said:

...

Forget aids and see if you can get a package deal. Nothing will do better to your game than i.e. 10 lessons spread across the season (I'd recommend 1 every 2 weeks) with the SAME teacher. Oh of course he(she) can't be bad, this you have to figure out by yourself. Idea is to get out of each lesson with set of drills to do on a range and come back for check up and new set of drills for the next 2 weeks. This setup got me from 20's to single digits (ok, ok, I had 3 series of 10 - I'm polish, so it takes more time

) and my wife (after 1 year of playing) from 40 to 28 hcp.

[Everardo]

I agree with Rafi, training aids are great tools when used correctly but I see them more as quick fixes or reminders of what your swing should do. Where as lessons from a great teacher help build a solid foundation. There's no substitution for what an extra set of eyes can see if your swing.

[Tech]

Thanks guys for advice. The three lessons I took last year helped immensely. (pretty much it was just the basics and mechanics) I wish I could afford that again, not to mention 10, or 20.

This upcomming season, I think, will be my "free golf" season. Which basically means, I wont play many rounds of actual golf, I'll just spend my timeout on the chipping and putting greens. (and a bit at the range)

[Rafcin]

yea, cost is always a issue, however if you check-out local driving range you might find a bargain. It might not be Butch Harmon, but in my case it was a driving range pro who was offering 10 lesson package for $280 (1/2hr lessons). Many of the training aids could bring your cost close to it (if you thinking of getting 2 - you're right there ). Normally if there is a driving range alone (not at a golf course) you should have better chances to find a good price...

[shakespeare]

I too think the Inside Approach seems like a great training aide for anyone. At least it seems to make you keep your swing on plane. Like many amatuers, I sometimes come over the top causing more of a cut shot than I want. If I wasn't so cheap (only relative to purchasing training aides - not clubs, green fees, etc.), I'd buy it. Plus Jack endorses it. Jack's got to be a reliable reference if ever there was one.

[iacas]

  shakespeare said:

I too think the Inside Approach seems like a great training aide for anyone. At least it seems to make you keep your swing on plane. Like many amatuers, I sometimes come over the top causing more of a cut shot than I want. If I wasn't so cheap (only relative to purchasing training aides - not clubs, green fees, etc.), I'd buy it. Plus Jack endorses it. Jack's got to be a reliable reference if ever there was one.

For $5, you too can create your own version of Inside Approach. Seriously, folks. Look at what it does and then create something "on the cheap" that does the same thing.

[shakespeare]

You're correct, and I suppose because I also believe that, I haven't purchased it. I think I can just go down to the hardware store and buy some PVC and make it.