Get your season off to a flyer

PGA Professional Lynn McCool offers some valuable pointers to make sure that you're doing things the right way.

I am a firm believer in keeping instruction tips simple rather than overcrowding a golfer’s mind with too many swing thoughts. It's never too soon to start working to improving your golf.

1. Pre-season training

Now is the time to assess your game over a few rounds to know exactly where you can make improvements before the next season begins. Put together your own golf journal, record stats from each round you play including fairways, greens in regulation and sand saves. From this information your golf instructor will really know what to work on so your early season golf lessons will be a sound investment.

2. Begin an exercise programme

If you are serious about performing well, your preparation work is as important as your game on the course. Regular work-outs will set up a healthy body. There are now many fitness instructors who focus on golf and I really suggest that you make at least one appointment to receive a tailored programme to incorporate that into your schedule. By knowing that you are in good shape, the positive impact on your game will be amazing.

3. Your pre-round warm-up

You should always allow time for a pre-round warm-up. The advantages of spending 45 minutes on the practice range are:

- Your muscles become warmed up and this decreases any stiffness prior to a round and your range of motion increases so you will hit the ground running on those first few holes

- You will encourage a restful mind by the time you approach the 1st tee

- Create a programme that includes 15 minutes putting, 15 minutes pitching and chipping and 15 minutes on your long game

4. Check your fundamentals

Ensure that your first lesson of the season is a simple check-up on golf’s most valuable basics..

- Grip-posture-alignment

- Encourage distance and consistency

You need the assurance that your set-up is good. Create no doubts and achieve a positive approach.