Swinging Under The Gun

[Crafty]

I was just wondering what you guys think about the golf swing under pressure. As we all know, there are certain flaws that show up in the golf swing when you are under the gun. What do you think is the most common occurence when people are swinging (or putting) under pressure.

[FortAsel]

Most of the time, they miss, but the pressure is only in their heads because they want it so bad... I used to do that, now, when' I'm starting to feel the pressure rising up, i walk slower and I get more focused.

[michael123]

Pressure tends to cause the golf swing to tighten which can result in all kinds of flaws and this probably varies from person to person but since most amateurs struggle with the slice then they will most likely slice the ball more often under pressure. Perhaps the best way to play under pressure is to create a solid mental routine that blocks out distractions and allows you to focus on the target.

[Three Putt]

I'm not a scratch golfer yet (obviosly the goal).

I find a relaxed grip helps the most and a 1/2 speed preswing routine. I like to let the shot happen and not pre rehearse the full shot..let it happen.

[JonnyGolf]

Interesting topic.

I think the most common pressure-induced swing fault is getting quick and jerky in the transition. I see it everywhere, driver, irons, and putter.

[neudi]

I would have to say that the pressure of the shot causes peoples blood to rush and to cause you to sometimes shake, shaking never helps a golf swing, but if you can control, it is the most powerful thing in the game of golf, being able to hit the shots like the pros can make golf that much more interesting.

[Crafty]

How do you think pressure affects your game as far as club yardages go? I feel like when I get juiced up in a tournament or match i hit my irons and wedges a little further (3-6 yards). Is this induced by swinging smoother and making better contact or something else........

[neudi]

How do you think pressure affects your game as far as club yardages go? I feel like when I get juiced up in a tournament or match i hit my irons and wedges a little further (3-6 yards). Is this induced by swinging smoother and making better contact or something else........

It can be caused by that, but if you are hyped up and ready to go it is most likely caused from adrenaline, the extra rush of blood through your body.

That is why when they say Tiger might club down here because he is angry from the last hole, it's because he may be running on adrenaline at that point and needs to ease up a little bit. :)

[JaY_B]

Pressure causes an increase in arousal levels, if you pass your optimum level of arousal you lose performance, over arousal can cause anger, aggression, lack of patience, quick breathing, a feeling of tight muscles. Over arousal can be triggered by a number of stimuli, usually when something goes very wrong, or you do something really well.

The key to handling pressure is being able to control and maintain your arousal levels to stay as near to your peak performance potential as possible, the best way to do this is too not react to any shot, good or bad, if you can keep a level head through out the round, without getting excited or angry (over aroused) you will be able to perform better as you will not be over or under aroused.

This is a very quick explanation as I have school in a couple of minutes.

JaY_B