Short game conversions are one of the most critical aspects to lower golf scores. All great players are able to make up for errant shots by converting short game shots at a higher percentage than average players. The conversion mindset is a learned skill. This article discusses the conversion mind set, how to develop a conversion mind set, and how to practice.
Converting Is Your Priority
You are at the short game practice area. You decide to practice chip shots using a 7 iron. You hit the first chip shot and the ball ends up 6 feet short of the hole. After adjustments, you hit the second chip shot and the ball ends up 6 feet past the hole. Chip shot 3 is very close to the hole. Chip shot number 4 ends up 5 feet short of the hole. Another adjustment and chips shots 5 and 6 end up within 2 feet of the hole. After the sixth shot you move on to other shots.
Question: How effective is this type of practice?
Answer: Not as effective as learning how to convert your chip shots in practice.
The form of practice described above is essential to learning the mechanics of the chip and developing feel and judgment. While feel and judgment are important in all aspects of golf, your ability to convert shots is much more significant.
The reason is that developing feel and judgment keep you in mechanical mode. In this mode you focus on technique, solid contact, trajectory, distance, and feel. All of these are important to your development as a golfer. In order to develop into a great player, you have to leverage these skills by using them to convert attempts into successful conversions.
You Must Practice With A Conversion Mindset
The conversion mindset is developed by picking very specific targets, hitting a shot, and then attempting the conversion. In the case of pitch, sand, and chip shots; we would successfully convert with one putt. This mindset is required for all short game shots and putts.
This type of practice sets the stage for switching the mind from mechanical mode to trusting mode. Trusting mode could be called scoring mode. The thing that will help you become more consistent in your ability to score is your pre-shot routine. The pre-shot routine is the bridge between mechanics and trust.
When you see Tiger Woods stalking putts or preparing for any golf shots during a round of golf, there is not a bit of mechanical process going through his mind. He may think about a mechanical thought during the first part of his routine as he is trying to figure out what shot to play. Once he steps into the ball, during the last 10 - 15 seconds of his routine, all he sees is the target. If mechanical thoughts were to creep into his routine, he would back away and start over.
Conversions Equal Confidence
You fill find that conversion practice will increase your confidence. Conversion practice is equivalent to playing the game for real. You pick targets, go through your routine, and hits shots with 100% intent. Intention is the fuel for greatness.
As you convert more shots and get better at these skills your confidence will improve...it has to. Your mind will remember all of the conversions you made in practice and then you can rely on these memories to help you when you are on the course. Your self talk will become, I can do this...I did it many times in practice.
Conversion Practice
Conversion practice in the short game area is done by hitting only one shot to each target and then attempting the conversion. You can use the same club to different targets or change clubs as the targets change. Variety will improve your ability to visualize because you will have to see a variety of shots with each club. Keep score when you do this practice. Set goals and then work towards your goal.
Conversion practice on the putting green is similar but you are only using the putter. The two ways you can do this practice are to use one ball and hit to one location at a time or drop three balls and hit to three different hole locations before attempting the conversions putts. It is crucial that you go through your exact routine during this practice. You want to read the grain and slope of the putt. Bridge into your routine and try to make the putt using 100% intention. If you miss the putt then try to make the second putt regardless of the length. You are not allowed gimmies in tournaments so make everything. When it comes time to make that two footer with the pressure on you will be ready.
Try to incorporate conversion practice into every one of your practice sessions even if you only do it for a few minutes. The more conversions you make the lower your scores will be. his type of practice is critical to your development as a player.
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