Anyone ever go to 'Golf Camp'

[2bGood]

I have been thinking about going to an all inclusive golf teaching centre for 5 days this year. Has any one done this? does it help at all? Any recomendations?

[The_Pharaoh]

I went to a 'Golf Camp' for 5 days or so ages ago when I was a struggling single-digit handicapper. The instructor was the then coach of the Swedish Golf Federation and was a 6-hour drive away. I was fortunate enough to meet him on the range at the 1991 Volvo Masters as he was overseeing some of the Swedish players at the event. He gave me his number and we arranged a week-long session a few weeks later.

I had a whale of a time and learned an awful lot. Unfortunately, that was the problem. I learned too much at once. I really improved all aspects of my game that week and was in great form for the two weeks afterwards. Then it all fell apart and I had nowhere to go as the coach wasn't nearby and readily available. Perhaps it hadn't all fallen apart but I had no idea why all of a sudden the magic had gone.

As a golf instructor myself now, instruction needs to be continuous and in short bursts if not it is extremely difficult to remember and apply changes. Changes also need to age and a good instructor knows when it is time to move on and when greater attention is required on a particular aspect the student is struggling on.

My recommendation is to:

1) Research golf instructors in your area, making sure they have a good reputation, are teaching regularly nearby and accessible (if they are so good they are teaching pros or top amateurs they won't have time for you long-term).

2) Once selected, and before having a lesson, sit down with him to discuss his swing philosophy (hopefully, you know it via your research) and most importantly if he can help you meet your objectives.

3) Do not be afraid to ask for a Development Program based on a minimum of 6 lessons. There is no point going to a golf instructor for one lesson and then never going back or seeing him once a year. Look for sessions between 30-45 minutes to keep concentration levels as high as possible and preferrably every week.

4) Trust the coach and listen to no one else.

5) Commit to practicing between lessons.

The key is to work on a few things at a time and be constantly monitored, as you'll slip back into bad habits or overdo changes the moment you are practicing on your own.

I hope that helps. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.