The Art of Relaxation on the Golf Course (Part 2)

After discussing some of the mental techniques to try and help relax on the Golf course, I also have physical ways that I have been working through. I hope these help you as much as they have helped me.

Physical Techniques for Relaxation

Relaxation is not just a mental state; physical readiness is equally important.

1. Loosening Up Before Play

Begin with gentle stretching and dynamic warm-up exercises before heading to the first tee. This boosts circulation, warms up muscles, and sets a relaxed tone for the round.

2. Pre-Shot Routine

Establishing a consistent pre-shot routine—one that includes a moment to take a deep breath, shake out the hands, and settle into posture—helps create a familiar, comfortable process that signals the body to relax before swinging.

3. Grip Pressure

A common fault among tense golfers is gripping the club too tightly. Hold the club with just enough pressure to maintain control (imagine holding a small bird: not too tight to harm, not too loose to let it fly away). This reduces forearm tension and encourages a fluid swing.

4. Body Awareness

Regularly check in with the body for signs of tension—tight shoulders, clenched jaw, stiff arms. Consciously relax these areas, especially before and during the swing.

Environmental Factors and Relaxation

The golf course’s environment can either soothe or stress a player. To harness its relaxing potential:

• Embrace the scenery: Take deliberate moments to appreciate the landscape, the sound of birds, and the feel of the breeze. This grounds you in the present and eases tension.

• Control the pace: Don’t let slow play or pushing groups disrupt your calm. Move at a steady, comfortable pace. If there’s a delay, remind yourself that you could be sitting in the office reading email.

• Choose playing partners wisely: Surround yourself with positive, supportive people when possible. The right company can either increase or alleviate tension on the course. I happen to like it when my playing partners chat freely as I am about to play a shot and so they go about their conversation as I prepare to tee off.

The ability to relax while playing golf is both an art and a science—one that requires intentional effort, self-awareness, and a willingness to let go of perfection. By integrating mental strategies, physical techniques, and a mindful appreciation of the golfing environment, every player can experience smoother swings, clearer thinking, and a deeper love for the game. Ultimately, relaxation on the golf course is not just about lowering your score—it’s about enriching your entire golfing experience, one calm breath and free-flowing swing at a time.