Golf Drills/Practice
PUTTING – AIMPOINT v PLUMB BOB
Many have been using the Plumb Bob method to help read greens for over 20 years. In this video, we are going to put it to the test. Paul (a PGA Professional) has been using a method called AimPoint, which is a green reading system that has been tried and tested at the highest level. I will tell you that PGA tour pros like Keegan Bradley, Max Homa, and Adam Scott subscribe to the Aim Point Method. While the likes of Rickey Fowler and many others rely on the Plumb Bob method… The bottom line both work, if used correctly.
Today -We will be looking at how the Plumb Bob method holds up against the AimPoint method and really see if the Plumb Bob has been helping or hindering us all over the years and if we are using it correctly.
Keep in mind: One of the key differences between the two methods is that Aimpoint Putting relies on the golfer’s ability to interpret the slope of the green using their body weight, while Plumb-Bob Putting relies on the golfer’s ability to visualize the slope using a plumb bob.
Tell us what method you use to hole more putts and why in the comments below…
Golf Drills/Practice
The Best YouTube Channels for Tips and Tricks
Explore the top YouTube channels for golf tips and tricks, featuring expert insights and practical advice to elevate your game.
If you’re looking to improve your golf game, YouTube is a treasure trove of expert advice, entertaining content, and practical tips. With channels that cater to beginners and seasoned golfers alike, there’s no shortage of inspiration. Here’s a roundup of the best YouTube channels for golf tips and tricks that can elevate your game.
Top Channels for Golf Instruction
Peter Finch Golf
Peter Finch is a household name in the YouTube golf community, with over 660,000 subscribers. His channel is a blend of instructional videos, equipment reviews, and on-course vlogs. Finch’s approachable personality and professional insights make his content both engaging and educational. Don’t miss his “Quest for The Open” series, which showcases his journey to qualify for The Open Championship.
Rick Shiels
With 2.8 million subscribers, Rick Shiels is the most popular golf YouTuber. His PGA professional background shines through in his detailed instructional videos and comprehensive club reviews. Whether you’re refining your swing or exploring the latest golf equipment, Rick’s relatable style makes complex topics easy to understand.
Danny Maude
Danny Maude’s channel focuses on simplifying golf instruction, particularly for beginners. With over a million subscribers, Danny excels at breaking down swing mechanics into digestible steps. His clear, actionable advice ensures golfers can immediately apply what they learn on the course.
Other Notable Channels
Mark Crossfield
Mark Crossfield is considered one of the pioneers of golf YouTube. His content includes equipment reviews, course vlogs, and swing tips. Known for his candid and insightful approach, Mark’s channel is perfect for golfers who want honest advice and practical guidance.
Chris Ryan Golf
Chris Ryan’s channel is ideal for club golfers looking to fine-tune their game. A PGA professional and one of Today’s Golfer’s Top 50 Coaches, Chris simplifies swing mechanics into easy-to-follow tutorials. His videos are accessible for golfers of all skill levels.
Athletic Motion Golf
For players intrigued by the science behind the swing, Athletic Motion Golf is a fantastic resource. Their nearly 800-video library offers scientifically backed explanations of golf techniques, focusing on swing mechanics and biomechanics. While their posting frequency is lower than others, the quality of their content stands out.
Padraig Harrington
Three-time major champion Padraig Harrington brings a wealth of experience to his YouTube channel. Despite his elite playing background, Harrington simplifies the complexities of the game into straightforward advice, making his content relatable for golfers of all skill levels.
Why These Channels Are Must-Follow
Each of these channels offers a unique perspective on the game, whether it’s equipment reviews, swing tutorials, or course strategies. By following them, you’ll gain insights from top professionals, learn actionable tips, and enjoy a variety of entertaining and educational content.
Final Thoughts
Golf improvement doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. These YouTube channels provide a wealth of free knowledge to help golfers of all levels refine their skills, explore new techniques, and enjoy the game even more. Dive into their content and start transforming your game one video at a time!
Blog
What Amateurs Can Learn From the Pros
Learn how to adapt the rhythm, power, and precision of professional golfers to elevate your own game, one swing at a time.
One of the most exciting aspects of golf is watching the pros play. Their fluid swings, impeccable timing, and consistency are nothing short of mesmerizing. While amateurs might not have the time or resources to replicate a tour-level swing, there’s plenty to learn from analyzing how the pros play. Here’s a closer look at key aspects of professional swings and actionable tips you can apply to your own game.
1. Tempo and Rhythm
Professional golfers have an almost hypnotic rhythm to their swings. Players like Ernie Els, known as “The Big Easy,” make the swing look effortless due to their steady tempo.
What You Can Learn:
- Focus on a smooth, controlled takeaway and transition to your downswing.
- Avoid rushing your swing; a balanced rhythm is key to consistency.
Pro Tip: Practice counting “one-two-three” during your backswing and downswing to establish a steady tempo.
2. Efficient Use of Power
Pros like Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm generate incredible power not by muscling the ball but by efficiently using their body mechanics.
What You Can Learn:
- Power comes from the ground up. Focus on rotating your hips and transferring weight smoothly from your back foot to your front foot.
- Avoid over-swinging; a controlled, shorter swing often results in better power and accuracy.
Pro Tip: Use drills like the “feet together swing” to feel balance and power in your swing.
3. Clubface Control
One thing pros excel at is controlling the clubface throughout the swing, ensuring square contact at impact.
What You Can Learn:
- Check your grip to ensure it’s neutral—not too strong or weak.
- Focus on keeping the back of your lead hand square to the target through impact.
Pro Tip: Slow down your swing during practice to focus on maintaining a square clubface.
4. Pre-Shot Routine
Every professional golfer has a consistent pre-shot routine to prepare mentally and physically for each swing.
What You Can Learn:
- Develop a routine that includes aligning to the target, a few practice swings, and visualizing the shot.
- Stick to this routine for every shot to build confidence and consistency.
Pro Tip: Watch videos of your favorite golfer’s routine and try adapting elements that suit your style.
5. Short Game Precision
While pros can bomb drives, their short game is often where they save strokes. Watch players like Phil Mickelson around the greens to see how touch and creativity come into play.
What You Can Learn:
- Practice a variety of shots around the green, including bump-and-runs, flop shots, and chips.
- Focus on speed and distance control in putting.
Pro Tip: Spend extra time practicing shots from 50 yards and in; this is where most amateurs can quickly improve.
6. Mental Toughness
Pros like Tiger Woods have shown us that mental strength is as important as physical skill. Staying calm under pressure and focusing on the next shot are hallmarks of great players.
What You Can Learn:
- Don’t dwell on mistakes. Instead, learn to reset and focus on your next opportunity.
- Visualize your shots and approach every hole with a positive mindset.
Pro Tip: Incorporate breathing exercises into your game to stay relaxed and focused.
Final Takeaway: Adapt, Don’t Copy
While watching the pros can be inspiring, remember that their swings are tailored to their bodies, strengths, and years of practice. The goal for amateurs is not to mimic every aspect of a professional swing but to adapt the principles that can enhance your own game. Focus on rhythm, power, and consistency, and watch your scores improve!
Drills
Thinking Your Way Around the Course
Mastering course management can transform your golf game, turning challenging holes into opportunities for smart play and score improvement.
Golf is not just played with clubs and balls but also with the mind. Mastering course management is essential for any golfer looking to improve their game from average to outstanding. This article dives into the strategic nuances of navigating a golf course, offering insights that help regular golfers think like pros on the greens.
Understanding the Course Layout
The first step in effective course management is understanding the layout of the course you’re playing. Each course has its unique characteristics—whether it’s the placement of hazards, the contour of the greens, or the firmness of the fairways. Before your round, study the course map and scorecard to familiarize yourself with key features such as par values, index holes, and major obstacles.
Strategic Tee Shots
Every hole begins with a decision on the tee box. Rather than automatically reaching for the driver, consider the safest route to the fairway that will provide the best angle to the green. Sometimes, using a fairway wood, hybrid, or even an iron for better placement is smarter than maximizing distance. The key is to avoid hazards and position yourself for an easier approach shot.
Navigating Hazards
Avoiding hazards such as bunkers, water, and out-of-bounds areas is crucial. When faced with potential trouble, it’s important to play conservatively and choose a route that minimizes risk. For example, on a hole with water along one side, aim to the opposite side, even if it means taking a longer route to the hole. It’s better to be safe and on the fairway than to risk dropping shots with a penalty.
Approach Shots and Green Reading
As you near the green, your focus should shift to making smart approach shots. Understand the safest part of the green to aim for, considering factors like pin position, slope, and existing hazards. It’s not always about aiming directly at the flag but rather about positioning your ball to give the best chance for a putt. Once on the green, take the time to read the contours and plan your putt path, adjusting for slope and speed.
Playing to Your Strengths
Know your strengths and play to them. If you’re confident with your irons but struggle with long woods, plan your game to maximize the use of your best clubs. Similarly, if you excel in putting, getting your ball onto the green in fewer strokes can make up for weaker drives.
Mental Game and Decision Making
Good course management is as much about mental toughness as it is about physical skill. Stay patient, manage your emotions, and make decisions based on logic rather than frustration. Each shot should be made with a clear plan in mind, considering both the current shot and how it will impact the next.
Embracing these course management strategies will not only help lower your scores but also make you a more thoughtful and skilled golfer. Remember, golf is a thinking game—plan strategically, execute wisely, and adjust as necessary.
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