Mastering Your Golf Game: Avoid These 5 Common Alignment Mistakes

1. Aiming at the Flag

It might seem intuitive to aim at the flag—after all, that’s where you want the ball to go. However, great players actually avoid this mistake. Instead, they choose an intermediate target. This could be a blemish on the ground or a spot a few feet in front of the ball. For instance, if your target is the flag that’s 120 yards away, it’s tough to align your clubface accurately. Instead, pick a point on the ground closer to you, align your clubface to that point, and your aim will naturally adjust towards the flag.

2. Walking in Closed

Another common mistake is walking into your shot with a closed body position. Great players typically walk in open, aligning their body correctly before setting up. When you approach from the side and end up closed to your target, your setup is already compromised. Instead, walk in from behind your golf ball with an open body position, align your clubface to your intermediate target, and then build your stance around that.

3. The Head Swivel

How you check your alignment is critical. Many golfers lift their heads to check their target, which can distort their alignment. Instead, practice a head swivel. Set up to the ball, ensure your body is aligned parallel to your target, and then gently lift your head to confirm your alignment by looking along your body line. This way, you can verify if you’re aimed correctly without losing your setup.

4. Where to Aim

When it comes to aiming, the common mistake is to target directly at the flag. Instead, aim based on your shot pattern. For instance, if your shots typically drift to the right, aim left of the flag to accommodate this. Choose a target that reflects your typical shot pattern rather than an idealized shot. This strategic alignment will help you hit more consistent shots.

5. Not Looking at the Target

Lastly, one of the worst mistakes golfers make is not even looking at the target. Many players focus solely on the ball as they approach it, forgetting to check their alignment. This often happens when golfers are overly focused on their swing mechanics rather than the shot they want to execute. Instead, maintain an external focus. Visualize the shot, consider the wind, the trajectory, and then approach the ball with a clear picture in mind.

By avoiding these five common alignment mistakes, you can significantly improve your game. Remember, alignment is about more than just where you’re aiming; it’s about how you set up to achieve your desired shot. Happy golfing!