Aspiring to break 80 is a common goal among golfers, symbolizing a significant leap in skill and understanding of the game. Nelly Korda, a celebrated figure in the world of golf with 15 LPGA Tour wins, offers crucial advice for those stuck in the frustrating limbo of the low 80s, struggling to make that final push into the 70s.
Aiming to Improve: The Power of Having a Target
Nelly Korda emphasizes the importance of precision and focus in practice, particularly noting how many amateurs neglect proper alignment during their sessions. “If you don’t know where you’re aiming, there is a high chance you don’t know where you’re aiming on the golf course,” Korda observes. This statement highlights a widespread issue: without a clear target on the practice range, achieving accuracy on the golf course becomes a challenge.
Using alignment aids like sticks can drastically improve your ability to consistently hit your mark. This method not only refines your aim but also enhances your overall game awareness, preparing you for the unpredictable conditions of actual play.
Beyond the Range: The Importance of Real-World Play
Korda points out a common pitfall for many golfers: spending too much time on the driving range. While the range is excellent for honing specific techniques or embedding a new swing feel, it doesn’t replicate the varied and often challenging conditions found on a golf course.
“Golf is a game of creativity and you’re never going to have your A-game. One day the wind will be off the left and one day off the right. The hole will play completely different,” explains Korda. This insight underscores the dynamic nature of golf, where adaptability and creativity are crucial for success.
Korda advocates for more on-course practice to confront the myriad of scenarios that can’t be simulated at the range. Exposure to real course conditions—like uneven lies and the pressure of having only one chance to make your shot—builds a golfer’s adaptability and enhances their tactical acumen.
The journey to breaking 80 is not just about technical skills but also about embracing the inherent unpredictability and creativity of golf. Korda’s advice provides a roadmap for golfers at any level to refine their practice habits and approach to the game. By setting clear targets and valuing on-course experience, golfers can evolve their skills and strategy to not only reach but surpass their goal of breaking 80.
With these insights from a top professional, golfers can reevaluate their training focus, ensuring that every practice session brings them closer to their golfing milestones. Remember, the path to improvement is both a test of skill and a testament to one’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the game.