Question:
Hi kids: I’m new to the game and I’ve seen lots of ads for teaching systems like "Gravity Golf", the Bob Mann Golf Tapes, and on and on. Do any of these things work?? If you believe the ads and the pro endorsements, you’d think I could be a 4 handicap by the end of summer. I’m just wondering if anybody has experience with something that works. Thanks, Tim
Funny you should ask. I just finished reading an excellent article in the most recent "Golf" magazine (May issue, I think. Norman on the cover.) In a nutshell, the author proposes throwing a club toward the target to get a feel for the proper swing. DON’T TRY THIS AT HOME! Seriously, it is all true. Most bad swings are caused by people making the ball the target instead of the hole (or fairway or green or . . .). By being focused on the ball, you’ll make yourself do crazy things. Everyone has the physical tools to perform a natural golf swing (Apologies to the physically challenged. Heaven knows we must remain PC on RSG. Don’t want to offend anyone) You just have to let yourself do it. The picture series in the article is INCREDIBLY Illustrative of the author’s concept. The whole thing also reminds me of Earl Woods’ story about Tiger when he was 6 yrs old, hitting balls at the driving range. Dad asked him what he was thinking about and he said matter-of-factly, "Where I want my ball to go!" When you think about the proper target, the golf swing is very easy. (Apologies to the high handicappers out there. I’m really not trying to offend anyone 
-Barry — * Binary Data Services – Barry Smith, Owner * "Ask me about setting up your own Web Site *** Buy Sell Trade Golf Clubs – http://www.looksee.com/barry
Response:
Hi kids: I’m new to the game and I’ve seen lots of ads for teaching systems like "Gravity Golf", the Bob Mann Golf Tapes, and on and on. Do any of these things work?? If you believe the ads and the pro endorsements, you’d think I could be a 4 handicap by the end of summer. I’m just wondering if anybody has experience with something that works. Thanks, Tim
I would strongly suggest lessons from your local reputable pro. There is nothing to replace 1-on-1 teaching to help you learn the game. I am a 7 hdcp, and still go to my pro for a lesson once in a while. I have found interesting concepts and ideas in books and on tapes, but when it comes down to fixing my swing I always go back to the lessons. It really helps if you can get one person to help you with your game, it always seems that he knows my swing better than me, and can find problems that I can’t, even if I use video. A few lessons will pay off longer than you will ever know, and will help keep you playing. Too many people start out golfing learning as they go, don’t get better, then quit. It is a frustrating game when you know what you are doing, and even more so when you are beginning. Hang in there and enjoy. It is a great game.
Response:
Hi kids: I’m new to the game and I’ve seen lots of ads for teaching systems like "Gravity Golf", the Bob Mann Golf Tapes, and on and on. Do any of these things work?? If you believe the ads and the pro endorsements, you’d think I could be a 4 handicap by the end of summer. I’m just wondering if anybody has experience with something that works. Thanks, Tim