|
|
|
Game tips — The mental game
|
A very important part of the game, especially during competitions, is the mental part. Many rounds have been destroyed by negative thoughts.
It is all very simple, yet difficult at the same time. Think positively! Look at difficult situations as challenges rather than problems. See the open paths instead of the obstacles. Think that you will be able to sink the putt rather than thinking about the risk of missing. However, note that this applies for the moment you throw. While you’re deciding how to make a shot, you need to consider how likely it is that you will be able to make the shot as planned, as well as what the consequences would be if you miss.
An example where positive thinking isn’t enough is when you have a 25 meter headwind putt ahead of you in a downhill slope and with water hazard behind it. Going for the chains with a reckless putt might end in disappointment. If you’re instead facing an 8 meter putt in moderate winds and flat ground, there really is no reason to hold back. When you're done evaluating the situation and have drawn the conclusion that the chances of sinking the putt are good, then it’s time for that positive thinking.
 |
Putting under pressure: Shawn Sinclair puts for birdie on Järvas hole 18 in the finale of SDGO 2002.
Photo: Rune Braathen
|
Focus
What makes a good chance of a successful shot is naturally very much depending on the skills of the player. Once you have decided how to make the throw, it’s important to be completely focused and not let yourself be disturbed by things around you, or to start thinking about something else. A good trick is to try visualizing the entire flight path before you throw. Make yourself a positive mental image of how the disc will fly, all the way from release to landing. At all times, try to choose throws where you have good chance of succeeding. However, sometimes you will fail regardless of how you visualize the throw in advance. It’s a natural part of the game. By making conscious decisions you will eventually achieve a sense of security and stability.
Despite the benefits of playing safe, there is always the risk of choosing too safe passages on your way towards the basket. This is basically a matter of personality; some prefer playing safe and others to live on the edge and play with very small margins. When you make a mistake during a competition, just try to get over it immediately and look forward to the next throw instead. Do not blame mistakes on the wind, the disc or anything else. It’s all up to you to consider all the factors that may affect your playing. That’s an important part of the game.
/Jonas Löf, translated by Jonas Lindberg
|
|
 |
With nervs under control:
Jens Häggström
Phto: Jonas Ruholm
|
 |
|
Ken Climo reflects: |
"Pressure
affects people differently. Even in my early days
competing against Akins, Monroe and Slasor, I was
more caught up in the moment, not the pressure.
Like, “Wow, I’ve got a chance to win,
I can’t let up now.” Keep everything
positive. That’s the key.
If you’re there for so many rounds and you
have a chance to win or to cash – whatever
your goal is – you just tell yourself you
can do it for a few more holes or whatever is left.
Positive brain waves are key on the golf course."
|
 |
Ken Climo, 11 times PDGA world champion
Copyright: www.kenclimo.com
|
|
Adds
|
 |
|
