Love this, spot on. I have a hard time relating to not having fun cause I've only ever loved golf. Two things I might add to my own list. 1. Walk the course. I'm consistently blown away by the number of golfers who only ride carts and the number of golfers who incorrectly believe that walking the course takes significantly longer to play the full round. Golf courses are beautiful and meant to be walked. It doesn't slow you down that much, especially on a busy weekend. Its healthy. 2. Stop the cursing in anger from every shot you don't like. I travel for a living and play 99% of my golf with strangers on busy weekends. It's just uncomfortable to play with people who are cursing in anger relentlessly after every shot they don't like. I would much rather play with a 22 handicapper who is pleasant and rolls with the punches than a 12 handicapper who is cursing themselves in anger the whole round.
When I played in college my coach made us hit 40, 50 and 60 yard shots everyday. Our scores dropped massively. We counted 1 1 thousand 2 1 thousand to get out tempo. The short swing is a miniature full swing. Helped me a lot.
@@wmcdermott175 As soon as you start the back swing count 1 1 thousand and start the down swing by counting 2 1 thousand, and you should be at the finish. The tempo may vary, but it keeps me from over swinging.
You’ve nailed it Mark. Spot on. I have enjoyed the self discovery part of the game sooooo much that I have never taken a lesson in 50 years. I’ll probably never shoot below 80 from the tips but if I can get to say 82, it’s an amazing feeling and accomplishment. I practice and play in spurts because life happens but each spurt I devote time to incorporating new clubs, practicing new shots, tuning old shots, realignment of my expectations on course management and shots taken, and incorporating new ideas that I learn from watching you and Coach. You’ve taught me soooo much and have made me love the game so much more. I play with old friends, and new friends, sometimes strangers, and sometimes by myself, and each time is a new experience. Maybe I will try a few lessons. Keep up the great work Mark and Thank You!
I love that this video is so positive. Mark, you're an honest teacher and great cheerleader in this segment. This...plus, the humor with the vlogs is really why I've been subscribed for so long. I'd just love to get down to low double figures if I can. It's so much fun when you can up and down...or even just play boring golf!
I took a massive break from golf. 15 years. I came back and fell in love with it again. I am playing the golf of my life. I can get pars easily and now want those birdies. My handicap has tumbled and i can hit shots close to the pin most of the time. I love the new philosophy of golf presented by people like Mark. No sonberry just a pure love of the game. He makes me laugh like a drain sometimes and I carry that sense of humour to the course with my mates. Brilliant stuff.
Love the entire philosophy. I have started practicing more, playing more executive 9-hole courses (par 3s) to practice short game, and paying attention to where I want to improve. This channel is for that golfer that wants to play good golf their entire life. Thanks Mark!
Great chat. I started golf to improve and keep intact, my mental health. 10 years on, I'm no longer in the emergency services so am interested in now seriously improving my skill. My point: golf is a journey. Couldn't agree with you more about having fun and about realistic expectations. You're an asset to the golfing world Mark.
This is one of your best videos. You cover all of the basics of improving at golf. As you said not everybody has the same weaknesses nor strengths. Figuring those 2 out will accellerate improvement a great deal. The mistakes I see the most with "average" golfers are 1. over-estimating ability in a situation where a mis-step will cost a lot of strokes, 2. Set up errors - not realizing the tee markers don't aim at the middle of the fairway, setting with body parts positioned in a way that guarantees a bad shot, having a good swing with the ball in the wrong position and chunking of skulling it due to that set up error, not a bad swing, etc.
This has been an extra thoughtful post. It reminds me that you have increased my enjoyment of golf for years. Given that your job is to instruct and entertain the masses while monetizing social media, I congratulate you for managing to give us a library of information with a high degree of integrity.
Thank you Mark, you have just re-inforced my own philosophy of why we play Golf and also why I started watching your Vids many years ago. I do spend an inordinate amount of time with Golfers of lesser abilities, but my enjoyment comes with watching them learn to really enjoy the game, and allowing them to bend the “rules” of Golf to better suit their playing abilities.
My old coach suited my brain, very much into positions of my swing. My new coach is all about feelings and freedom in my swing on the course, forget the perfect swing and enjoy the beauty of the course. Enjoy the good shots, forget the bad shots, but learn from them, practice them, my handicap is getting lower but my game isn’t focused on it. Just enjoy, and turn your phone off on the course. Great vid Mark
Great point about not taking on too much instruction from TH-cam all at the same time, picking 1 (grip for me🙈) & sorting that out before switching left right & centre to other stuff has to be best. The last one - have fun - is soooo true!👍
Mr Crossfield at his best !!! Love it when you talk mental approach and technique . I’m not someone who likes crunching the data ( although I know it’s value ) . I’m a feel player and when you talk about golf “ feelings “ what you say … makes sense Nice one 👍🏼
Thanks for the content, Mark. Due to two major physical problems and being an old guy (67), I thought my playing days were over. However, due to my love of the game, I started a TH-cam journey to build a swing within my physical handicaps. Having spoken to local instructors who either could not work with my restrictions or considered my restrictions too great to overcome, I set out alone (and with content creators). I discovered you, many others, and Moe Norman. I cobbled together a swing that is single plane (but not all Moe Norman) and the pushing-away hip movement taught by Mike Malaska. I've been playing for a year, again. My last ten rounds have been in the 70's. Loving the game and will for as long as possible. My rambling is to say thank you to TH-cam content creators, such as yourself and your colleagues.
This was probably one of the BEST golf videos I've ever watched. Not just golf lessons here but life lessons too...and how could this video possibly have any dislikes? Some people!
I sometimes laugh when I play, whether it's my shot or another players shot. Some players don't appreciate that, too serious for my blood. I always remind people that we are playing golf "playing" being the key word...great stuff, keep it up.
@@jamesandrews8778 yes mate. I have always been a decent striker of the ball so thought my irons were my strong point and that my short game let me down in regards to getting lower. But after tracking stats I have seen my approach play loses me the most shots on a consistent basis and, although my short game isn't great, the good days I actually gain strokes there where I never do with approach
@@joshuapamplin8678 thanks for the response my dude. Have you improved your approach play as a result? I also feel as if my approach play let's me down more often then not. And as a result, my short game is pretty decent because I am always chipping.
@@jamesandrews8778 it's coming a long slowly. I've been playing with my shape this season but need a couple of lessons to iron out the main faults I think
@@joshuapamplin8678 I've got a lesson coming up next next. My issue i think has been that I haven't picked a shape. On the range, I can draw a ball and fade a ball on call. But on the course, I get lost trying to do both.
Great messages Mark - just played this to my Wife who is a relative novice and the bit about lessons ( she's having them), practice your weaknesses and having Fun above all else really resonated with her and me. Thanks for continuing to educate and inform.
As a returning golfer after 10 years and being frustrated trying to rediscover the form of a 40yr old as a 50yr old with a hip replacement and less flexibility this has been a sobering video! Lower expectations and playing to current ability however have a goal in mind. Well done Mark!!!
Lovely video Mark, thank you. I played a bit in my early 20’s but then kids and life got in the way. Now in my 50’s, my wife and I are picking it up again. We have gotten a few lessons and goal is simply not to be embarrassing golfers (better than double bogey). We play at an executive course (no par 5). They even have a ladies night that the wife is going to join. It’s just so much fun to do lots of chipping and putting. My clubs are 25 years old, may treat myself to a fitting for Christmas (you could do a video of that😁). I have no visions of being a great golfer, just in this to get out walking around a lovely course, meet some people and have fun.
Great video Mark, some points that are easily forgotten that you have reminded us all of. I would also add that understanding the course you are playing can really help lower your score and add enjoyment. Take the time to look at the hole for hazards, pin locations etc. and react to changing weather conditions. Some slopes around the greens and on fairways are there to make life easier and not just to hurt you, which is easily forgotten. Something as simple as that which I didn't focus on enough before has really helped me enjoy playing more and improved me. And everyone can do it.
Here's all the info :) 1. Develop a well-rounded game (Tee, approach, short game, putting) 2. Good foundation (Grip, set up, alignment) 3. Play more golf 4. Discover different shots & don't be afraid to explore outside the comfort zone 5. Measure your progress & work on where you can lower your scores 6. Don't take too much advice on TH-cam discovering new "fixes" for your swing 7. Short game skills 8. Mange expections 9. Play with better players 10. Have fun
Great vid Mark! Been watching a lot of your older course vlogs and really enjoying them! But sometimes I really like just a talking through vid like this one!! Gets the mind right I think! I could not agree more with your last point! Have fun!! Keep it up!!
What a timely video for me. I play for pleasure , but I also want to break 80 consistently. What is holding me back is what you said about trying to be perfect which is not going to happen playing golf and I've gotten lost trying to do it. I'm going back to enjoying the challenge of playing all shots from all lies and realize again that golf is not a game of good shots but bad and remembering that. Thank you.
Have fun…most important bit by far. Even when having a shocker, being able to put it down to experience and to smile makes such a difference…it’s why I keep coming back
This video is emblematic of why I started following you in the first place. Love your ability to provide worthwhile information in a digestible way. I will say however, that I have taken lessons at various times since starting golf (late in life), but still find it very valuable to watch various youtube golf instruction. Sometimes someone will make the same point as my instructor or another youtube instructor but say it in a way that resonates with my. So for me, more exposure to different instruction tips has made me better overall. Thanks for another terrific video.
substitute any other aspect of life for "golf" in this video (eg learning a musical instrument), and it remains brilliant and relevant. The abstracted version: 1. build foundations, 2. do rather than just practice (get on the course as fast as you can), 3. don’t get lost in youtube, 4. embrace self discovery (learn to play), 5. measure your progress, 6. do things you can practice anywhere (short game skills), 7. manage expectations, 8. open your mind (try things), 9. keep it fun. Awesome video!
This might be your best video yet, Mark. I play off a six now and all the things you mentioned, especially the last point, I’ve been through and probably could have done quicker had I not spent $500 on a driver and spent it on lessons. Hindsight is a wonderful thing. Good content and a bloody good message.
I love the vlogs and equipment reviews, but Mark, when you talk golf, is the best. You are damn smart, and all of this was so true. The secret is there is no secret. Get after it.
Very refreshing video the things that I need it or wanted to hear or see after 35 years I've been playing to remind myself why do I play the game thank you Mark
Good video Mark/Coach! When I was young, I couldn't enjoy golf unless I played well, which to me meant playing better than I ever had before. Obviously, this drove me to becoming angry every time I didn't (95% of the time) because I was just hoping that I would just be naturally great at the sport. My golf got so out of control that I lost all confidence in knowing where the ball was going to go off the club face. However, stumbling upon your videos on youtube one day I was given clear guidance about the golf swing for the first time and it got me excited about trying things out at the driving range. By trying these things and learning so much more about golf, I finally started experiencing your most important philosophy 'have fun'. Thanks so much for changing my golf experience.
Thank you Mark for putting the game of golf back into perspective for me. Yes I have high expectations but I still manage to have fun playing with a range of different, interesting and fascinating people.
The emotional black hole of not improving! Nails it! Your game will sometimes be 1 step forward 2 steps back.. it changes, each day and swing and hole is new. Try a 1 man scramble to take the pressure off and practice as you play.
Really important video, this one IMO. Not always going to be the most viewed or liked, but you know that and still whack it out. Same balance as always...Coaching and knowledge transfer is your primary focus. Appreciated.👍
Mark, your love and passion for golf is noted! Its clear that you really put the time in to produce top notch content. I've been a sub for over 5 years now. You and the Muppets are criminally underrated! Cheers
Well done. Great help to remember why I'm out there in the first place. You were the first TH-cam jock I tuned into years ago and I liked you then as well. Keep it up Marl.
The TH-cam rabbit hole your so right. I have been struggling with early extension. I watched a few videos. Yours said that there might be a route cause. So I booked a lesson. Indeed there was a route cause ( too many compensations over time and my swing looks nothing like what I had been taught) I have now decided to have a half hour lesson every month just to make sure I’m sticking to the fundamentals and not self sabotaging over time. Once again you speak the truth thank you
I had a great first lesson and so impressed with how much I could improve over the next year if I put the work in and my pro has lesson's to and your right it never ends
Golf is a journey I remember as a teenager when all I wanted to do was hit the ball as far as possible. 300 yard tee shot, duffed chip and three putts! Then went through the throw clubs stage until someone explained that golf wasn't paying my mortgage or bar bills (nor was it meant to be - fortunately) The get serious stage - 4 rounds a week - competitions, teams etc The hardest thing now is playing 5/10 times a year and obviously not being able to match previous 'heights'. However, really makes you analyse your swing and approach to the game to really maximise the time I do get on the course and think about what I want out of the game. I feel that I understand the game better than ever. I now mark my card in the clubhouse after the game so I don't worry about the score and actually feel for 6/7 holes out of 9 I'm playing better than ever because I'm enjoying and remembering the good shots rather than stressing when I miss a putt!
Mark, you hit the nail on the head, why are we playing? If it’s not for fun what is it for? I’m over 50 I love playing golf, I want to improve and I want to have fun, simple.. you spell it out clearly.
What a fantastic video, as a new starter after a lay off of 20 years I found it very inspiring. I'll take on board what you said and will probably watch it again and again. I just wish TH-cam was around when I last played I don't think I'd of given up golf if it was.
Great video Mark, the last one is so true. I play with a few guys who get so angry and I don’t get it. This is my hobby, I pay lots of money to do it as I love golf - no matter how bad I play I make sure I write down 3 positives from each round to prove it was worth it. My club comp handicap is 12 and want to get to 9.
The best 20 mins of golf instruction I have watched in a long time. So much resonated with me and at 60 I still need to think differently about this beautiful game. The expectation I have needs a lot of thought. 👍👍
Bang on with the TH-cam rabbit hole! I look for videos like this about how to play the game and strategies to break 90 (current goal) than on swing instruction as mine is good enough to be successful when I’m consistent. Thanks for the great content!
Good visor mark. For me only one year in it’s this, try to see every shot as a chance to hit a good ball. That totally chafes the fear factor I had on tricky holes!
Great content. Few years ago I went for a cheeky 9 holes after lesson no. 6 (ever) and tagged onto a society 3 ball who invited me to join. They were so good at making up and downs i tried to work out how but was afraid to ask questions. One guy did advise me on my putting and I immediately started dropping shots following his advice. haven't looked back on my putting. Better players really help and if I'd had more of an open mind I may have learned more! Now I'm back to playing more often I want to get down to 12hc from 18 over the next year. And go round the same 9 holes with my son soon!
Just getting into golf and thought this was fantastic advice, I will take this onto the golf course later today. THANK YOU and keep up the great work, really enjoying your videos.
Great advice Mark, especially the last point of “making golf fun”. We tend to learn better if we have fun whilst doing it so a win win situation all round.
Very good video. I left the game for many years after I had my right wrist fused 3 times. I just felt there was no way I could ever swing the club properly again. My new wife encouraged me to give it a go once again because of my love and passion for the game. It's been a struggle to figure out a way to swing and strike the ball consistently with my issue but it's been worth it. I play to a decent enough level to make me happy. One other thing regardless of my skill level the most important thing to me is to be the guy that others want to play with because they enjoy my attitude and demeanor on the course. Let's face it there are people we enjoy playing with and others we really don't. I prefer to be the former. Cheers
Great video especially for newer players. So many good points I like to think I try to do all. I think the thing that helped me improve was stopping getting upset when I hit a bad shot, or got a bad lie. When I learnt to accept my limitations and the bad breaks as part of the game. Another great watch, Mark. 👍
Loved this one. Oddly for me, I enjoy practicing almost more than being on a course. I have a large yard and spend countless hours chipping and using birdie balls to hone my iron play. I have a real nice net and setup where I can hit all clubs and use impact tape to improve my quality of strikes. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy a round of golf now and then too, but I enjoy the practicing aspect so much more. And it does pay off - when I do golf I have a confidence that I did not have in the past when I felt unprepared for the game. I know I am an odd bird for sure.
Fantastic advice, really hits home. I recently played scratch matchplay against a guy playing off 3, against my 11. I was soundly beaten but learned so much about my own game, my strengths and weaknesses. Great video!
Great video as always Mark,thank you! We have to keep it fun and speaking out of personal experience we need to have reasonable expectations of what we want out of the game. TH-cam is a great platform for help with your game but can be dangerous. My advice is to follow 1 or 2 people and build from there. Learn from their experiences and make your own assumptions! You are without a doubt my favourite "coach/teacher" when it comes to the more technical stuff! Thank you for everything!
Fair play mate, just stumbled across your channel as someone who's been playing properly a year now, and think there's some really honest and genuine advice and insight in this video, definitely very useful for me. I will second the lessons thing, the first thing I did was get lessons so I didn't develop any bad habits or whatever, and can definitely see the benefit vs my mates who may never have had a lesson and developed their own 'unique' techniques.
I have learned a massive amount from youtube, but you have to test things for yourself and be thoughtful about what you take in and what you try. Any video or product that claims to instantly make it so you will never mis-hit a shot again is ridiculous on the face of it. But if you look closely, look for common themes among different teachers, and especially pay attention to people who aren't giving the same generic advice as everyone else, you can build a good game. I really enjoy making my own game rather than taking prescriptions from a coach. I absolutely own my game and have gone from a 15 handicap down to 5 in a couple of seasons. It can be done, though probably not by a lot of people.
Thank you for this video I appreciate the reset and insight I find it to be extremely helpful. While I am competitive and constantly trying to lower my score I recently have regressed so hopefully this will help next time out.
The not getting trapped in youtube golf is such a good one, find myself going well such and such says do this and so and so says do that and it all gets very confusing. That being said it has also helped me improve in some aspects.
Thanks for this Mark. “Keep the fun”. Been getting beat up last few rounds and just need that reminder at times. Trying to just get some scores at my perceived handicap (18) and would love to get into single figures.
I like this content. I moved to an area with a good amount of courses and no teachers that I can find. No club pros. Oddest thing. I am at the point where I am contemplating traveling golf weekends just so I can work with a coach. I regret not taking more lessons while I lived in a place where every course had a pro offering them.
Love this, spot on. I have a hard time relating to not having fun cause I've only ever loved golf. Two things I might add to my own list. 1. Walk the course. I'm consistently blown away by the number of golfers who only ride carts and the number of golfers who incorrectly believe that walking the course takes significantly longer to play the full round. Golf courses are beautiful and meant to be walked. It doesn't slow you down that much, especially on a busy weekend. Its healthy. 2. Stop the cursing in anger from every shot you don't like. I travel for a living and play 99% of my golf with strangers on busy weekends. It's just uncomfortable to play with people who are cursing in anger relentlessly after every shot they don't like. I would much rather play with a 22 handicapper who is pleasant and rolls with the punches than a 12 handicapper who is cursing themselves in anger the whole round.
Well said T White, that is bang on 👊
Spot on.
My best rounds are always on foot.
Spot on T!
splendid...
I can’t remember the last time I was upset on the course. But, I can remember a lot of bad shots. Keep it fun.
Lucky
When I played in college my coach made us hit 40, 50 and 60 yard shots everyday. Our scores dropped massively. We counted 1 1 thousand 2 1 thousand to get out tempo. The short swing is a miniature full swing. Helped me a lot.
How did the count work exactly? This is a big weakness in my game
@@wmcdermott175 As soon as you start the back swing count 1 1 thousand and start the down swing by counting 2 1 thousand, and you should be at the finish. The tempo may vary, but it keeps me from over swinging.
Must give that a go in practice. Definitely a weakness in my game
You’ve nailed it Mark. Spot on. I have enjoyed the self discovery part of the game sooooo much that I have never taken a lesson in 50 years. I’ll probably never shoot below 80 from the tips but if I can get to say 82, it’s an amazing feeling and accomplishment. I practice and play in spurts because life happens but each spurt I devote time to incorporating new clubs, practicing new shots, tuning old shots, realignment of my expectations on course management and shots taken, and incorporating new ideas that I learn from watching you and Coach. You’ve taught me soooo much and have made me love the game so much more. I play with old friends, and new friends, sometimes strangers, and sometimes by myself, and each time is a new experience. Maybe I will try a few lessons. Keep up the great work Mark and Thank You!
I love that this video is so positive. Mark, you're an honest teacher and great cheerleader in this segment. This...plus, the humor with the vlogs is really why I've been subscribed for so long. I'd just love to get down to low double figures if I can. It's so much fun when you can up and down...or even just play boring golf!
I took a massive break from golf. 15 years. I came back and fell in love with it again. I am playing the golf of my life. I can get pars easily and now want those birdies. My handicap has tumbled and i can hit shots close to the pin most of the time. I love the new philosophy of golf presented by people like Mark. No sonberry just a pure love of the game. He makes me laugh like a drain sometimes and I carry that sense of humour to the course with my mates. Brilliant stuff.
Love the entire philosophy. I have started practicing more, playing more executive 9-hole courses (par 3s) to practice short game, and paying attention to where I want to improve. This channel is for that golfer that wants to play good golf their entire life. Thanks Mark!
Great chat. I started golf to improve and keep intact, my mental health. 10 years on, I'm no longer in the emergency services so am interested in now seriously improving my skill. My point: golf is a journey. Couldn't agree with you more about having fun and about realistic expectations. You're an asset to the golfing world Mark.
LOVE the self discovery discussion!!
Never had a lesson in my life.
Down to 3.3 index in 4 years
This is one of your best videos. You cover all of the basics of improving at golf. As you said not everybody has the same weaknesses nor strengths. Figuring those 2 out will accellerate improvement a great deal. The mistakes I see the most with "average" golfers are 1. over-estimating ability in a situation where a mis-step will cost a lot of strokes, 2. Set up errors - not realizing the tee markers don't aim at the middle of the fairway, setting with body parts positioned in a way that guarantees a bad shot, having a good swing with the ball in the wrong position and chunking of skulling it due to that set up error, not a bad swing, etc.
This has been an extra thoughtful post. It reminds me that you have increased my enjoyment of golf for years. Given that your job is to instruct and entertain the masses while monetizing social media, I congratulate you for managing to give us a library of information with a high degree of integrity.
Thank you Mark, you have just re-inforced my own philosophy of why we play Golf and also why I started watching your Vids many years ago. I do spend an inordinate amount of time with Golfers of lesser abilities, but my enjoyment comes with watching them learn to really enjoy the game, and allowing them to bend the “rules” of Golf to better suit their playing abilities.
I've watched you for many years, this is perhaps your best video yet. Esp the last point. Many thanks
*slow clap* greatest "golf" video ever. I love this. This is going to be a go-to video for me every month. Thank you, sir.
Spot on. As Gary Player said 'the secret is in the dirt'. Make practice fun and relevant to your measured weaknesses, and you'll improve fast.
My old coach suited my brain, very much into positions of my swing. My new coach is all about feelings and freedom in my swing on the course, forget the perfect swing and enjoy the beauty of the course. Enjoy the good shots, forget the bad shots, but learn from them, practice them, my handicap is getting lower but my game isn’t focused on it. Just enjoy, and turn your phone off on the course. Great vid Mark
Love that Mark uses the word "variance" a lot in his videos. Variance allows you to stop trying to be perfect, or achieve the perfect result.
Great point about not taking on too much instruction from TH-cam all at the same time, picking 1 (grip for me🙈) & sorting that out before switching left right & centre to other stuff has to be best. The last one - have fun - is soooo true!👍
Mr Crossfield at his best !!!
Love it when you talk mental approach and technique .
I’m not someone who likes crunching the data ( although I know it’s value ) . I’m a feel player and when you talk about golf “ feelings “ what you say … makes sense
Nice one 👍🏼
Thanks for the content, Mark. Due to two major physical problems and being an old guy (67), I thought my playing days were over. However, due to my love of the game, I started a TH-cam journey to build a swing within my physical handicaps. Having spoken to local instructors who either could not work with my restrictions or considered my restrictions too great to overcome, I set out alone (and with content creators). I discovered you, many others, and Moe Norman. I cobbled together a swing that is single plane (but not all Moe Norman) and the pushing-away hip movement taught by Mike Malaska. I've been playing for a year, again. My last ten rounds have been in the 70's. Loving the game and will for as long as possible. My rambling is to say thank you to TH-cam content creators, such as yourself and your colleagues.
This was probably one of the BEST golf videos I've ever watched. Not just golf lessons here but life lessons too...and how could this video possibly have any dislikes? Some people!
mark is speaking from the golf heart. real words of wisdom given
I sometimes laugh when I play, whether it's my shot or another players shot. Some players don't appreciate that, too serious for my blood. I always remind people that we are playing golf "playing" being the key word...great stuff, keep it up.
Love this. Tracking stats has highlighted majorly that my emotional view on my game is a lot different to reality!
In what way? Can you explain a little more?
@@jamesandrews8778 yes mate. I have always been a decent striker of the ball so thought my irons were my strong point and that my short game let me down in regards to getting lower. But after tracking stats I have seen my approach play loses me the most shots on a consistent basis and, although my short game isn't great, the good days I actually gain strokes there where I never do with approach
@@joshuapamplin8678 thanks for the response my dude.
Have you improved your approach play as a result?
I also feel as if my approach play let's me down more often then not. And as a result, my short game is pretty decent because I am always chipping.
@@jamesandrews8778 it's coming a long slowly. I've been playing with my shape this season but need a couple of lessons to iron out the main faults I think
@@joshuapamplin8678 I've got a lesson coming up next next.
My issue i think has been that I haven't picked a shape. On the range, I can draw a ball and fade a ball on call. But on the course, I get lost trying to do both.
That's why your 1 step ahead of your peers. Tip top MC as usual
I agree with you that fun is the basis! A bad of golf is always better than a good day at work!
Great messages Mark - just played this to my Wife who is a relative novice and the bit about lessons ( she's having them), practice your weaknesses and having Fun above all else really resonated with her and me. Thanks for continuing to educate and inform.
One of the better content I’ve seen on your channel in a while. Great job!
As a returning golfer after 10 years and being frustrated trying to rediscover the form of a 40yr old as a 50yr old with a hip replacement and less flexibility this has been a sobering video! Lower expectations and playing to current ability however have a goal in mind. Well done Mark!!!
I have been watching a few different TH-cam videos to try and get different ideas, I am slowly striking the ball better.
Mark "The Philosopher"... You gotta love him! Bravo
Without a doubt the best video on golf I’ve watched on TH-cam mark
Lovely video Mark, thank you. I played a bit in my early 20’s but then kids and life got in the way. Now in my 50’s, my wife and I are picking it up again. We have gotten a few lessons and goal is simply not to be embarrassing golfers (better than double bogey). We play at an executive course (no par 5). They even have a ladies night that the wife is going to join. It’s just so much fun to do lots of chipping and putting. My clubs are 25 years old, may treat myself to a fitting for Christmas (you could do a video of that😁). I have no visions of being a great golfer, just in this to get out walking around a lovely course, meet some people and have fun.
Great video Mark, some points that are easily forgotten that you have reminded us all of. I would also add that understanding the course you are playing can really help lower your score and add enjoyment. Take the time to look at the hole for hazards, pin locations etc. and react to changing weather conditions. Some slopes around the greens and on fairways are there to make life easier and not just to hurt you, which is easily forgotten. Something as simple as that which I didn't focus on enough before has really helped me enjoy playing more and improved me. And everyone can do it.
Here's all the info :)
1. Develop a well-rounded game
(Tee, approach, short game, putting)
2. Good foundation
(Grip, set up, alignment)
3. Play more golf
4. Discover different shots & don't be afraid to explore outside the comfort zone
5. Measure your progress & work on where you can lower your scores
6. Don't take too much advice on TH-cam discovering new "fixes" for your swing
7. Short game skills
8. Mange expections
9. Play with better players
10. Have fun
Great vid Mark! Been watching a lot of your older course vlogs and really enjoying them! But sometimes I really like just a talking through vid like this one!! Gets the mind right I think! I could not agree more with your last point! Have fun!! Keep it up!!
What a timely video for me. I play for pleasure , but I also want to break 80 consistently. What is holding me back is what you said about trying to be perfect which is not going to happen playing golf and I've gotten lost trying to do it. I'm going back to enjoying the challenge of playing all shots from all lies and realize again that golf is not a game of good shots but bad and remembering that. Thank you.
This is pure Gold. Very well put Mark..
Have fun…most important bit by far. Even when having a shocker, being able to put it down to experience and to smile makes such a difference…it’s why I keep coming back
Imo, probably the best vlog you've made Mark. Keeping it fun and realistic. How many golfers don't do this!!?
Great video for those new to the game, needing a refresh, or thinking about jumping in
Great video Mark, thoroughly enjoyable and one of your best in a while. Thanks for posting
This video is emblematic of why I started following you in the first place. Love your ability to provide worthwhile information in a digestible way. I will say however, that I have taken lessons at various times since starting golf (late in life), but still find it very valuable to watch various youtube golf instruction. Sometimes someone will make the same point as my instructor or another youtube instructor but say it in a way that resonates with my. So for me, more exposure to different instruction tips has made me better overall. Thanks for another terrific video.
substitute any other aspect of life for "golf" in this video (eg learning a musical instrument), and it remains brilliant and relevant. The abstracted version: 1. build foundations, 2. do rather than just practice (get on the course as fast as you can), 3. don’t get lost in youtube, 4. embrace self discovery (learn to play), 5. measure your progress, 6. do things you can practice anywhere (short game skills), 7. manage expectations, 8. open your mind (try things), 9. keep it fun. Awesome video!
This might be your best video yet, Mark. I play off a six now and all the things you mentioned, especially the last point, I’ve been through and probably could have done quicker had I not spent $500 on a driver and spent it on lessons. Hindsight is a wonderful thing. Good content and a bloody good message.
I love the vlogs and equipment reviews, but Mark, when you talk golf, is the best. You are damn smart, and all of this was so true. The secret is there is no secret. Get after it.
Easily one of your best. Thanks Mark. Outstanding insights.
Very refreshing video the things that I need it or wanted to hear or see after 35 years I've been playing to remind myself why do I play the game thank you Mark
Good video Mark/Coach! When I was young, I couldn't enjoy golf unless I played well, which to me meant playing better than I ever had before. Obviously, this drove me to becoming angry every time I didn't (95% of the time) because I was just hoping that I would just be naturally great at the sport. My golf got so out of control that I lost all confidence in knowing where the ball was going to go off the club face. However, stumbling upon your videos on youtube one day I was given clear guidance about the golf swing for the first time and it got me excited about trying things out at the driving range. By trying these things and learning so much more about golf, I finally started experiencing your most important philosophy 'have fun'. Thanks so much for changing my golf experience.
Thank you Mark for putting the game of golf back into perspective for me. Yes I have high expectations but I still manage to have fun playing with a range of different, interesting and fascinating people.
The emotional black hole of not improving! Nails it! Your game will sometimes be 1 step forward 2 steps back.. it changes, each day and swing and hole is new. Try a 1 man scramble to take the pressure off and practice as you play.
This resonate so much to me. The process of self discovery is the most challenging and fun part of golf. Thanks for also speaking truth
Really important video, this one IMO. Not always going to be the most viewed or liked, but you know that and still whack it out. Same balance as always...Coaching and knowledge transfer is your primary focus. Appreciated.👍
Mark, your love and passion for golf is noted! Its clear that you really put the time in to produce top notch content. I've been a sub for over 5 years now. You and the Muppets are criminally underrated! Cheers
Well done. Great help to remember why I'm out there in the first place. You were the first TH-cam jock I tuned into years ago and I liked you then as well. Keep it up Marl.
Love the video. Really feels like a conversation instead of someone taking “at” you. Great rules for keeping grounded.
Great video mark, A lot of logic and common sense in the video which is worth repeating now and again.
Well stated sir...was not sure what to expect initially. Pleasantly surprised, now let's have some fun !
The TH-cam rabbit hole your so right. I have been struggling with early extension. I watched a few videos. Yours said that there might be a route cause. So I booked a lesson. Indeed there was a route cause ( too many compensations over time and my swing looks nothing like what I had been taught) I have now decided to have a half hour lesson every month just to make sure I’m sticking to the fundamentals and not self sabotaging over time. Once again you speak the truth thank you
Great outlook on the game. It's very easy to drift along within the game and not take time to 'smell the roses'.
I had a great first lesson and so impressed with how much I could improve over the next year if I put the work in and my pro has lesson's to and your right it never ends
Very insightful! Thank you for another entertaining video. Keep up the great work! Cheers.
Golf is a journey
I remember as a teenager when all I wanted to do was hit the ball as far as possible. 300 yard tee shot, duffed chip and three putts!
Then went through the throw clubs stage until someone explained that golf wasn't paying my mortgage or bar bills (nor was it meant to be - fortunately)
The get serious stage - 4 rounds a week - competitions, teams etc
The hardest thing now is playing 5/10 times a year and obviously not being able to match previous 'heights'. However, really makes you analyse your swing and approach to the game to really maximise the time I do get on the course and think about what I want out of the game. I feel that I understand the game better than ever.
I now mark my card in the clubhouse after the game so I don't worry about the score and actually feel for 6/7 holes out of 9 I'm playing better than ever because I'm enjoying and remembering the good shots rather than stressing when I miss a putt!
Mark, you hit the nail on the head, why are we playing? If it’s not for fun what is it for? I’m over 50 I love playing golf, I want to improve and I want to have fun, simple.. you spell it out clearly.
Excellent video Mark,I took 10 years off of golf,now I have a reniewed passion to just enjoy my time on the course
What a great video that made a lot of sense!
Good stuff Mark - like the content and the ideas and some good thought provoking comments - made me re-evaluate a few things - keep these ones coming!
The most realistic and important lesson on You Tube.
Great stuff. So many good tips here Mark.
What a fantastic video, as a new starter after a lay off of 20 years I found it very inspiring. I'll take on board what you said and will probably watch it again and again.
I just wish TH-cam was around when I last played I don't think I'd of given up golf if it was.
Great video Mark, the last one is so true. I play with a few guys who get so angry and I don’t get it. This is my hobby, I pay lots of money to do it as I love golf - no matter how bad I play I make sure I write down 3 positives from each round to prove it was worth it. My club comp handicap is 12 and want to get to 9.
The best 20 mins of golf instruction I have watched in a long time. So much resonated with me and at 60 I still need to think differently about this beautiful game. The expectation I have needs a lot of thought. 👍👍
Bang on with the TH-cam rabbit hole! I look for videos like this about how to play the game and strategies to break 90 (current goal) than on swing instruction as mine is good enough to be successful when I’m consistent. Thanks for the great content!
Good visor mark. For me only one year in it’s this,
try to see every shot as a chance to hit a good ball.
That totally chafes the fear factor I had on tricky holes!
Preach Mark! coming back to golf after 6 months away trying other things I love your philosophy and attitude. thanks for the content.
Great content. Few years ago I went for a cheeky 9 holes after lesson no. 6 (ever) and tagged onto a society 3 ball who invited me to join. They were so good at making up and downs i tried to work out how but was afraid to ask questions. One guy did advise me on my putting and I immediately started dropping shots following his advice. haven't looked back on my putting. Better players really help and if I'd had more of an open mind I may have learned more!
Now I'm back to playing more often I want to get down to 12hc from 18 over the next year. And go round the same 9 holes with my son soon!
this is why I love this channel, really needed to be reminded of some of these points, thanks
Great stuff as always. Always new incites into the game. Thank you
Great 'conversation' Mark - very sensible and effective points being made
Just getting into golf and thought this was fantastic advice, I will take this onto the golf course later today. THANK YOU and keep up the great work, really enjoying your videos.
Great advice Mark, especially the last point of “making golf fun”. We tend to learn better if we have fun whilst doing it so a win win situation all round.
Cool pin gadget for the lift/kick of the ball.
Very good video. I left the game for many years after I had my right wrist fused 3 times. I just felt there was no way I could ever swing the club properly again. My new wife encouraged me to give it a go once again because of my love and passion for the game. It's been a struggle to figure out a way to swing and strike the ball consistently with my issue but it's been worth it. I play to a decent enough level to make me happy. One other thing regardless of my skill level the most important thing to me is to be the guy that others want to play with because they enjoy my attitude and demeanor on the course. Let's face it there are people we enjoy playing with and others we really don't. I prefer to be the former. Cheers
Great video especially for newer players. So many good points I like to think I try to do all. I think the thing that helped me improve was stopping getting upset when I hit a bad shot, or got a bad lie. When I learnt to accept my limitations and the bad breaks as part of the game.
Another great watch, Mark. 👍
Loved this one. Oddly for me, I enjoy practicing almost more than being on a course. I have a large yard and spend countless hours chipping and using birdie balls to hone my iron play. I have a real nice net and setup where I can hit all clubs and use impact tape to improve my quality of strikes. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy a round of golf now and then too, but I enjoy the practicing aspect so much more. And it does pay off - when I do golf I have a confidence that I did not have in the past when I felt unprepared for the game. I know I am an odd bird for sure.
Fantastic advice, really hits home. I recently played scratch matchplay against a guy playing off 3, against my 11. I was soundly beaten but learned so much about my own game, my strengths and weaknesses. Great video!
Great video as always Mark,thank you! We have to keep it fun and speaking out of personal experience we need to have reasonable expectations of what we want out of the game. TH-cam is a great platform for help with your game but can be dangerous. My advice is to follow 1 or 2 people and build from there. Learn from their experiences and make your own assumptions! You are without a doubt my favourite "coach/teacher" when it comes to the more technical stuff! Thank you for everything!
Fair play mate, just stumbled across your channel as someone who's been playing properly a year now, and think there's some really honest and genuine advice and insight in this video, definitely very useful for me. I will second the lessons thing, the first thing I did was get lessons so I didn't develop any bad habits or whatever, and can definitely see the benefit vs my mates who may never have had a lesson and developed their own 'unique' techniques.
I have learned a massive amount from youtube, but you have to test things for yourself and be thoughtful about what you take in and what you try. Any video or product that claims to instantly make it so you will never mis-hit a shot again is ridiculous on the face of it. But if you look closely, look for common themes among different teachers, and especially pay attention to people who aren't giving the same generic advice as everyone else, you can build a good game. I really enjoy making my own game rather than taking prescriptions from a coach. I absolutely own my game and have gone from a 15 handicap down to 5 in a couple of seasons. It can be done, though probably not by a lot of people.
Love this! Fantastic advice for all golfers. Keep up the good work!
favorite golf youtuber. keep it up mark
One of the best vlogs grown up professional
Thank you for reminding me why I play golf.
Thanks, Mark, very valuable. Maybe one more thing... we all need to be honest with ourselves about our performance!
Great video Mark. As a self taught golfer I can relate.
Thank you for this video I appreciate the reset and insight I find it to be extremely helpful. While I am competitive and constantly trying to lower my score I recently have regressed so hopefully this will help next time out.
The not getting trapped in youtube golf is such a good one, find myself going well such and such says do this and so and so says do that and it all gets very confusing. That being said it has also helped me improve in some aspects.
Thx Mark, brilliant video and advice. Will definitely want to keep it fun. 👍
Thanks for this Mark. “Keep the fun”. Been getting beat up last few rounds and just need that reminder at times. Trying to just get some scores at my perceived handicap (18) and would love to get into single figures.
I like this content. I moved to an area with a good amount of courses and no teachers that I can find. No club pros. Oddest thing. I am at the point where I am contemplating traveling golf weekends just so I can work with a coach. I regret not taking more lessons while I lived in a place where every course had a pro offering them.