New Beginnings

Another season is upon us and like every spring in Canada golfers are filled with a sense of renewal and optimism. Every golfer is at a different stage in their development but we can all have the sense that this will be the year. I recently came across a video made by Arnold Palmer that hopefully will change your perspective on how you can reach your goals this summer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkX6xQM_QE8

This video by the King reminded me of a question I often pose to my students. If you had the choice to choose between a perfectly repeatable swing and a random swing that can adapt to different situations. Which would you choose?

I would say that close to 80 percent of golfers would choose the repeatable swing. I mean isn’t that what were all looking for? The apparent holy grail of golf is to have that perfect swing with perfect angles that looks the same every time. Unfortunately golf doesn’t work that way. Golf is a sport where the field of play is always changing. We are never in the same place in relation to the target more then once, and we will never make the exact same golf swing twice. Personally, I want the swing that can adapt to any situation. A swing, as Arnold says is “perfect in its imperfections.” This summer I would encourage you to practice different shots instead of positions. I would encourage you to gain an intimate knowledge of your swing instead of trying to copy some pro you saw on television. Learn how to hit a draw and a fade, learn how to hit it high and low, learn a new short game shot, and learn how to putt with your imagination instead of a checklist. When you approach your game in this way you start to own your swing in only a way that YOU can. I think you just might start to enjoy it too!


Eric Frederickson
Head Teaching Professional
Bushwood Golf Club
(647) 213-3733
eric@bushwood.ca

And the 2013 season is fast approaching!

With the start up April upon us, the 2013 golf season is fast approaching! It's hard to believe that after months of 'Old Man Winter' we are finally seeing the signs of spring! Though some snow remains on the ground, with a little bit of sun and warm temperatures, the green grass is sure to appear shortly!

Are you ready for the season? There are a few things you'll need to ensure you are prepared for the upcoming year. Namely...

1. A set of clubs! Sometimes we forget that we lost a club in the last season, or that one of our irons needs a new grip. Or maybe you need a new set altogether because your set circa 1990 just isn't cutting it anymore! Did you know that spring can be one of the best times to buy golf clubs? The casual golfer typically doesn't think about golf equipment until the weather begins to warm up. This time of year you will see the new models of most clubs arriving on store shelves, which means that last year's models can be found for less!

2. A pair of golf shoes. While a pair of good golf shoes aren't a necessity for the occasional golfer, they can help improve your game by keeping your feet better grounded during your club swing, resulting in a more stable full body movement. Golf shoes are available at numerous retailers from all kinds of different manufacturers. It is important to note that the top of the line pair may not be for you and a more affordable option can still suit your golfing needs. Check out golf supply stores for last year's models, as they often reduce their prices when the new line of shoes arrives for the season.

3. A golfing buddy. No one wants to golf alone. Ok.. maybe some people do enjoy a solo round to enjoy the nature, solitude and peace that a game of golf can offer. But who doesn't like a little healthy competition?! If your spouse doesn't golf or if your coworkers are too busy, why not try to meet new people who share your common interest: golf. There is a site I've come across: meetup.com - it's fantastic! The way it works is you create a profile and account, and then can search and join various groups in your area. You specify what city and what kind of activity you are looking for, and voila! If there isn't a group out there, you can create your own. Why not create a meetup group for golfers looking to get out monthly, weekly or even more frequently? It's a great way to meet new people who share the same love for golf and want to get out for a round or two.

4. A few other fundamentals... Just a few miscellaneous items that we often forget about but that should be a staple in our golf bags: golf balls and tees (duh), a divot tool to repair any divots you might make during the course of play (and let's face it.. the first few rounds of the season, we're likely to be making a few of these!), a ball marker (or a quarter will work just fine!) and maybe some sunscreen and bug repellent depending on what time of the year you play. A bottle of water is also a must, especially on those hot summer days (and other 'refreshments' that the beverage cart might have to offer...)