Just like in all other areas of our lives self-assurance or self-belief is a key element to success and pleasure in

a game of golf. There is no accounting for experience and practising the essentials over and over again will lead

to an improved game. However, due to players having different body types, each will have a golf swing that is

unique to them.

Each person will have to find ways to adapt to their specific body type to become good and develop a swing that

works best for them. The next few paragraphs contain a few helpful pointers to help you towards that perfect swing

the next time you're on the course.

Dont forget to warm up!

It goes without saying that "practice makes perfect" as this is a very important part to improving one's game and

the only way to acquire self-assurance, especially in a game of golf! So, it is strongly advised that prior to your

tournament you take some time out in the practise area. Here you will accomplish 2 important things - warmup which

slackens off the muscles thus improving your ball striking skills. It is therefore recommended that you start off

using a wedge and work your way through the set to the driver. As well as minimizing your risk for injury you get

the feel of hitting the ball correctly.

Give power to the swing.

Unlike other games where a racquet is used and flicks of the wrist play a major part, golf is not a wrist game.

Many new golf players tend to hit the ball using just the power in their arms and wrists. This may be ok from time

to time but does not yield power or stability with a much bigger chance of slicing the ball. The entire body should

be used to achieve an effective swing employing the trunk and leg muscles for maximum power.

However, no swing is effective enough withouth good balance. Your swing needs to be provided with a firm support in

much the same way that a structure requires a solid foundation. With your feet 6 inches apart try practicing

hitting some balls. This will help you improve your balance and pace and will help you greatly when you return to

your usual stance.

Positioning your knees (righty-handed swing).

The body's weight is best placed on the inside of the right foot, preserving a slight bend in the knee while on the

backswing. Make sure that the right knee is rock solid as you swing the club backwards. This helps utilize the

power coming from the trunk and sending the ball flying.

The common mistake made is to let the left knee give towards the right during the backswing. This causes the hips

to sway and make an overturn. Both knees should be stabilized on the backswing in order to deal with this properly.

Imagine holding a basketball between your thighs - this is how stable the knees should remain.

A lot of time and practice is required to perfect your golfswing. With the tips above you should be able to work

out your most confident swing depending on your body type and what of course works best for you!