(00:00) Weekend Golf Show Banter and Tips

This chapter takes us back to a previous summer episode, where we chat about the sweltering conditions in Arizona and the difference a dry heat makes compared to the humid South. We reminisce about an impressive golf experience at Calusa Pines in Florida, known for its rare elevation changes reminiscent of Pinehurst, despite Florida's typically flat terrain. We also touch on the challenges posed by the tricky Donald Ross-designed greens, like those at Pinehurst and French Lick, emphasizing how their undulating surfaces test even the best players. Highlighting Ava Bunker's recent performance at Pinehurst during the North South Junior, we explore how these notorious greens can make or break a golfer's day.

(12:24) Wind and Putting Techniques

This chapter explores how wind can significantly impact a golfer's putt, especially on greens with varying speeds. Starting with the basics, we examine how wind affects putts on municipal course greens rolling at a nine on the stimp meter, requiring about a two-club wind to make a difference. On faster greens rolling at a ten or more, a one-club wind is sufficient. After conducting a power school class where participants improved their ball speed and distance, we transition to understanding wind's influence on putting. Through practical demonstrations using aim point techniques, we illustrate how a two-club wind can negate the natural break of a downhill putt. By rolling balls down a ramp, we observe how gusts of wind can alter the ball's trajectory, emphasizing the need to judge wind conditions carefully. The discussion highlights the nuanced relationship between wind, ball speed, and putting strategies, particularly on downhill versus uphill putts.

(24:21) Improving Golf Swing for Wind Resistance

This chapter explores techniques for improving golf swings, particularly focusing on achieving a square clubface to reduce spin and enhance ball speed. We discuss how many golfers inadvertently create glancing blows due to improper form, resulting in increased spin and less control, especially in windy conditions. A practical drill using a carwash sponge is introduced, where the sound produced upon impact provides immediate feedback on the squareness of the clubface. The exercise can be enhanced by wetting the sponge or wrapping it in a towel for added resistance, helping golfers feel the power needed for a direct hit. While the drill is primarily designed for drivers due to their flat face, alternative methods for practicing with irons are also suggested. The emphasis is on experiencing the feel of a direct, powerful impact, which can significantly improve distance and accuracy.

(31:51) Wind Resistance Golf Techniques

This chapter focuses on the challenges golfers face when dealing with wind on the course and the importance of striking the ball solidly to overcome these obstacles. We compare learning the basics in class to facing real-world complexities, highlighting how a solid shot is crucial regardless of weather conditions. There's a discussion on common misconceptions about altering techniques, such as moving the ball forward to combat wind, and how such adjustments often lead to poor contact and weak shots. We emphasize the necessity for amateur golfers to master hitting the center of the clubface before attempting advanced strategies like using the wind to their advantage. We share humorous anecdotes about playing with partners who overestimate their skills and provide practical advice on simplifying their approach to improve consistency and reduce ball loss.

(43:17) Putting Techniques for Windy Conditions

This chapter focuses on a unique putting technique that initially drew skepticism but ultimately gained popularity among a group of golfers. I share my experience of how this unconventional method, which involves putting to the fringe rather than directly to the hole, made sense after explaining the reasoning behind it. As more people adopted this approach, it became a staple practice within the group. Additionally, we highlight the importance of consistently listening to the advice shared on the show, especially when it comes to improving skills like playing in the wind.

(00:01) Weekend Golf Guys

This chapter explores the lighthearted banter and golfing wisdom shared between John Ashton and Jeff Smith. As the winter thaw begins, we touch on the humorous differences in climate between snow-laden Indiana and sunny Southern California. Jeff recounts a playful exchange with a director of golf about the unexpected presence of clouds in California, highlighting his signature sarcastic humor. Shifting gears, we address the often confusing advice given on how tightly to grip a golf club, critiquing vague analogies like holding a bird or a tube of toothpaste. Jeff shares a practical experiment he conducted with a squeezy ball to illustrate how grip strength is subjective and varies from person to person. Through this exercise, we emphasize the need for individualized understanding of grip strength to improve one's golf game.

(12:08) Improved Grip Pressure for Better Control

This chapter focuses on the importance of grip control in improving a golfer's game. We emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to finding the right grip pressure, but achieving the right grip is crucial for consistent performance. I share an exercise where golfers use only their left hand to test their control during a backswing, often revealing a lack of grip stability. By adjusting the placement of the club in the hand, particularly at the base of the pinky finger, golfers experience better control and power. This newfound control not only enhances ball striking but also boosts confidence, leading to improved overall performance. Through this simple adjustment, golfers feel a stronger connection with the club, making it an extension of their arm, without altering their grip orientation in a way that feels uncomfortable.

(23:54) Right Hand Force in Golf

This chapter explores the transformative process of improving golf skills, starting with the short game to build confidence and control. We begin by focusing on the importance of making solid contact with the ball and understanding the mechanics behind it. By addressing common issues like scuffing and sculling, we help players achieve immediate success and comfort around the greens. As they progress, they gain control over longer shots, seeing straighter and cleaner ball flights. The discussion highlights the significance of using both hands effectively, particularly the often-overlooked role of the right hand, in enhancing performance. Through practical exercises and common-sense comparisons to other sports, we demonstrate the importance of applying pressure to the backside of the shaft for better control and power. The goal is to shift the mindset from simply turning the body to engaging the hands actively, leading to more accurate and powerful swings.

(34:40) Generating Power Through Firm Foundations

This chapter explores the essential role of stability and a solid base in generating power during athletic movements. We examine how athletes, from golfers to baseball and tennis players, leverage a firm connection to the ground to maximize force and efficiency. By using examples such as the stance of a pitcher or the balance of a tennis player, we illustrate how coiling against a stable base enhances performance. A key takeaway is the transformation seen in a golfer's swing when proper stance adjustments are made, resulting in a significant increase in driving distance. This insight underscores the importance of efficient energy use and the potential for improvement by refining one's foundational technique.

(43:43) Weekend Golf Game With Those Guys

This chapter focuses on the concept of "powerful effort" versus "effortless power" in the context of improving your golf game. We emphasize the importance of understanding the distinction between making a strong effort and harnessing natural, effortless power to enhance performance on the course. By exploring this idea, we provide listeners with insights and strategies to refine their skills. We encourage listeners to revisit past episodes for further entertainment and valuable information, reminding them of the wealth of content available to help improve their game. We also invite questions and interaction with Jeff for personalized advice, reinforcing the interactive and supportive community we strive to create. Join us weekly and make us a part of your journey to becoming a better golfer.

(00:01) Aging Golfers and Hybrids

This chapter explores the unique challenges and adjustments that come with playing golf as we age. We highlight the irony that as we have more time to enjoy golf, our physical capabilities often diminish, leading to the need for different strategies and equipment choices. The discussion includes adapting to the realities of aging, such as reduced clubhead speed and the benefits of incorporating more hybrids into our golf bags. We also share anecdotes and insights on how many golfers overestimate their current abilities based on past performances, which can lead to on-course frustration. The goal is to embrace these changes and continue to enjoy the game, potentially even striving to shoot our age in the future.

(12:28) Techniques for Penetrating Bunker Shots

This chapter explores the transformative journey of four elderly women learning to play golf more effectively. Initially, they struggled with common techniques that weren't suitable for their physical abilities, resulting in a lack of control and unsuccessful shots. We discuss how adjusting their grip and stance, specifically by hinging their wrists and standing the club vertically, helped them gain better control and achieve greater clubhead speed. By positioning the ball at the bottom of their divot and making a regular swing, they could easily navigate the sand and clear obstacles, ultimately improving their game. This approach underscores the importance of adapting techniques to individual needs, especially when physical strength is a limiting factor.

(21:17) Improving Golf Swing for Seniors

This chapter explores the nuances of grip pressure and balance in golf, especially for older players seeking to maintain or increase their swing speed. We discuss the common misconception that slowing down can lead to better control, emphasizing instead the importance of maintaining balance and grip control to generate more efficient power. Highlighting the challenges of translating force into relatable terms, we examine how changes in stance, grip, and posture can aid in achieving a faster and more balanced swing. The focus is on finding the right grip pressure that allows for control without sacrificing mobility, enabling seniors to optimize their swing for better distance and ball speed.

(34:20) Improving Golf Swing Without Tech

This chapter explores adjustments to make in your golf game as you age, focusing primarily on increasing swing speed without relying on high-tech equipment. We discuss using an alignment stick to identify the loudest point in your swing, indicating where the club is moving fastest, and how shifting that point can lead to speed gains. Techniques like turning your chest toward the target and enhancing wrist action are highlighted. While we recognize the value of launch monitors, we also acknowledge that not all instructors use them due to their cost. We suggest a simple, cost-effective training tool involving a rope and a Nerf ball to help improve swing speed, emphasizing that these low-tech solutions can be surprisingly effective in enhancing your game.

(44:04) Golf Course Length Strategy for Seniors

This chapter explores how to determine the appropriate course length by multiplying the distance you hit with a five iron by 36, offering a practical approach to tailor your game. We also share our excitement for the upcoming 52 weeks of shows, encouraging listeners to tune in regularly or catch up on past episodes at thoseweekendgolfguys.com. Reflecting on our journey over the past 11 years, we express gratitude for the audience's support and provide a reminder to follow Jeff's advice for improving your golf experience, particularly as you age.

Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher Jeff Smith explains first why more of us amateur golfers miss on our approach shots. It’s because we set up in the wrong order. we set up to the ball and then we aim. That's backwards. First, align yourself to the target and then set up to the ball. Jeff gives us many ways to check and make sure our aim is correct. Listen close and never miss another green again because of a poor aim.