Many golfers are unaware that the pre-shot routine is very important because it affects what comes next. This is one skill that is often neglected by even the most experienced golfers who sometimes think that once you have your game going, your pre-shot routine is no longer crucial.
Compulsory skill to have
This skill is something that you must have if you want to improve and continue improving in your game. In most cases, each player would have their own individual routine when it comes to pre-shot setup. This is because different players would have a different set of needs and preferences. That said, there are certain basics that you should be aware of.
Establishing your setup routine
What you want from your pre-shot routine is to get a good cadence so that you can stay in sync. Your pre-shot routine ensures that you keep your pace consistent because one of the most common mistakes that golfers make when they make a bad shot is that they become too haste. Meanwhile, they tend to speed up their play right after a good one. Either way, this play is wrong because what you want to do here is to stay within your pace. To do that, a standard pre-shot routine will ensure that you have consistent timing in your play. This is the practice that even the best players do, by going the same thing over and over again.
As a rule of thumb, you should (before every shot) take a walk towards your shot and then to face the ball for the first time. This means your body is now aligned to the target line and you could then establish the grip-club face line. You will also be able to aim the clubface at the target and determine your distance from the ball. It is here that you will start working on your stance and your posture.
No single way to do this
As mentioned, the pre-shot routine will differ among individuals. While the process could be linear, you might have separate things to examine before you take a shot. Take your time to decide what and how your pre-shot routine should be and that make an effort to follow them through each time. Once you have gotten used to the routine, time each interval. When you make consistent periods in your pre-shot routines, you will find that you are calmer and your shots become better.