Heads or Tails

When someone tells you to keep your head down while playing golf, it's best to ignore that advice. First, it can lead to overthinking, which can hurt your game. Second, it's a sign of a problem, not a solution. Lastly, if you're in a tournament, remember that giving advice is against the rules.

As you get ready to hit the driving range, focus on your tail instead of your head. Start by finding your stance, letting your tail hang out to help balance your upper body. Your weight should be evenly distributed on your feet with a slight bend in your knees. Once you're in position, rotate your body to the right (if you're right-handed) as if you're about to shake hands with someone behind you. By the end of your swing, you should be facing the target, ready to greet that imaginary friend.

While at the driving range, keep thinking about your tail, not your head. The key is to keep your tail stable while your hips rotate.

During your swing, you might notice two common habits. The first is swinging back too far, which can cause your tail to move in and your head to rise, messing up your swing. The second habit is trying to force the swing down toward the ball, which pushes your tail out and your head down, again disrupting your swing.

Both habits can change your swing plane, leading to unexpected ball flight. Personally, I find it easier to focus on keeping my tail stable during the swing rather than worrying about my head. A big step forward is to avoid overswinging or trying too hard. Remember, you bought those clubs to do a job—let them work for you, and watch your scores improve.

As you work on your technique, think of your swing as a smooth dance with the club. Each movement should flow into the next, creating a strong connection between you and the ball. Pay attention to your breathing; it can help set your rhythm. Remember, golf is as much about mental focus as it is about skill. Enjoy the process of getting better and cherish every swing.