PRO SAYS I HAVE "BALL ITIS" - Shot Talk

seanmathes · iTrader: (0) #1 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 12:16 AM

I have been working on a few specific things with my pro lately. The biggest issues I am having is the release and extension of my hands and arms. Also because of this I also have a slight chicken wing. I have been using various swing aids and we have noticed that this only happens when I hit a ball. When I use the swing aids and practice swings with a normal club I have a perfect release and great extension.

My pro calls this a case of "ballitis" because whenever I try to hit a ball my swing changes but otherwise my swing is great.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get over this? My pro keeps telling me that psychologically I have to get over this and that through more practice I will eventually work it out. I have probably put in 40 hours at the range over the last couple of weeks and I can't seem to fix this?

Thanks guys

**Sandpiper3** · iTrader: (0) #2 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 12:45 AM

Solid preshot routine

That will get you through it. But ur pro is right, itll take time. I used to have this, and developed a bad case of it in early july right as my summer break started. Just give it time and stay confident.

Youngun5 · iTrader: (0) #3 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 01:19 AM

hit with your eyes closed a couple times and see what that does.....preferrably tried at the sparsely populated side of the range

obagain · iTrader: (0) #4 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 01:23 AM

I agree with youngun.
You are trying to hit the ball instead of the ball getting in the way of your swing.
Try slow swings with your eyes closed. At first don't use a ball to get a feel then let the ball get in the way.

bames · iTrader: (1) #5 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 10:06 AM

I just had a lesson last week and this was his quote that referred to everything from the tournament to hitting the ball...

"The procedure is greater than the event"

Basically, preshot routine and laying down a nice swing is more important than "trying to hit the ball", and everything else will fall into place. It sounds as though you have a nice swing - USE IT.

**warbirdlover** · iTrader: (0) #6 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 10:36 AM

Look at the bright side. At least it wasn't your DOCTOR who said that!!!

**ezra76** · iTrader: (4) #7 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 10:59 AM

Ha, Ha. I thought it said "ball tits" at first.

This is something that comes with time,experience and practice. I actually set up with my driver head an inch off the ball and always choose a target to go for. If I'm trying to fade or draw a shot I choose 2targets, start path (swing path) and landing area (face position). This not only helps my accuracy but takes my attention off the ball and to my target(s) and swing plane. My recommendation: take a dozen practice swings clipping the rubber tees at the range, add ball and proceed.

Setup is important too. Most people make too much of a big deal out of ball position. On the tee it's ridiculous, it's your choice where to put the ball, why do so many people have setup problems? I start by setting the clubface behind the ball and then come around and take my stance.

**JEFF4i** · iTrader: (2) #8 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 12:00 PM

A slightly faster pre-shot routine. Take a practice swing or two, then step up, get set up, and swing. No fluff.

**warbirdlover** · iTrader: (0) #9 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 12:31 PM

I've found (sometimes) that not allowing myself any practice swings helps. I just step up and hit it (usually with good results).

Dannykos · iTrader: (0) #10 (**permalink**) 10-19-2006, 01:09 PM

i almost never take a practise swing with my irons - as i know full well that my actual swing is going to bear little resemblance to my practise version.

I just stand behind the ball, visualise, address - and GO!!