Tips to Stay Sharp and Ready for Spring

Written by: Brendon Elliot

 

As the vibrant colors of fall give way to the stark whites and grays of winter, many golfers in the colder regions start tucking away their clubs until the first signs of spring. And for those that might say, “Hey, Brendon, you live in Florida; what would you know about an offseason?” Well, as a native upstate New Yorker who lived and breathed golf from a very young age, I, too, had to endure the seasonal golf doldrums. That was a big reason why I moved to Florida back in 1996 after I graduated from college.

Here is the reality, golf fans: the off-season doesn’t have to mean losing your swing or putting your game on ice. Maybe it was a little more challenging as a teenager in the early 90s to extend our season, but with all of the advancements in golf over the past 30 years, the winter can be a time of growth for you and your golf game.

Here are some practical off-season practice tips to keep your skills sharp and improve your game, all from the convenience of indoors. You have the power to keep your game strong, no matter the weather outside.

 

Let’s Get Physical

Okay, perhaps I am dating myself with that title for this section, but hey, what can I say? Oliva Newton-John made us all want to work out when I was young. 

Anyway, as the offseason settles in, the first thing you can focus on is maintaining your physical fitness. Golf is as much a physical game as it is mental. It’s tempting to hibernate when the temperature drops, but keeping your body strong and flexible is crucial. Incorporate regular workouts focusing on strength, flexibility, and endurance. Upper and lower body exercises such as squats, lunges, and shoulder presses are beneficial. Don’t forget your core; a strong core improves your swing and helps prevent injury. Yoga and Pilates can also enhance flexibility and balance, both vital for a good golf game.

 

Tech, Tech, and More Tech

Next, consider investing in a golf simulator or using video analysis tools like the V1 GOLF app. Better yet, connect with a coach who uses the V1 COACH app. Studying your swing is an effective way to practice and stay sharp indoors.

Many golf simulators available today offer realistic playing conditions and feedback on your swing, shot accuracy, and club-head speed. While a simulator can’t replace the feel of an actual course, it’s a powerful tool to keep your mind and skills engaged during the off-season. The best thing about the simulator market in recent years is that prices have plummeted, and you can now get quality at-home simulators for a fraction of the price they once were. With this confidence-boosting technology, you can stay on top of your game, no matter the season.

 

Get Your Mind Right

Speaking of the mental game, this is the perfect time to refine your strategy. Curl up with some of the best golf literature out there or watch instructional videos online. Immersing yourself in the mental aspects of golf can help you develop a game strategy and build mental toughness. Visualization exercises are also beneficial; picture yourself playing your favorite hole or perfecting a challenging shot. The mind is a powerful tool—use the off-season to sharpen it.

 

Resetting Your Foundation

Technical skill development is another off-season must. Work on your grip, stance, and alignment without hitting a ball. These are foundational aspects of your game that can continually be fine-tuned. Use a mirror to check your setup or record yourself to analyze your movements. You might be surprised at how minor adjustments can make significant improvements.

 

Putt Fore Dough

Putting is one part of the game you can practice easily at home. Set up a putting mat or use your carpet to simulate a green. Focus on your stroke mechanics and aim, practicing short putts to build confidence. Create small challenges or goals to make practice engaging. Even something as simple as putting to a cup or between chair legs can be incredibly effective.

 

Set Your Plan For the Spring

Finally, set realistic goals for the next season. Clear objectives, such as lowering your handicap, improving your driving accuracy, or bettering your short game, give your practice purpose. Set short-term, achievable goals to keep you motivated through the winter months, and track your progress along the way. These goals are not just markers of progress but powerful motivators that will keep you on track and excited for the next season.

Remember, the off-season is not a break but an opportunity. By maintaining your fitness, using technology wisely, honing your mental game, tweaking your technique, and keeping those putts polished, you’ll emerge in the spring not just ready to play but ready to excel. 

Keep warm, stay active, and embrace the chance to become a better golfer—all from the comfort of your home.

 

 

PGA Professional Brendon Elliott is a multiple award-winning Golf Professional based in Central Florida. He is the 2017 PGA of America’s National Youth Player Development Award Winner and is the recipient of more than 25 other industry awards with a focus on Coaching & Education. He is considered by his peers as an industry expert on topics ranging from Jr. Golf Development to Operations to Industry Sustainability. He is the founder of the Little Linksters Golf Academies and the Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development, a 501c3 nonprofit also based out of Central Florida. Brendon is also a freelance golf writer for PGA.com, Golf Range Magazine and several other golf websites and blogs. He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America. You can learn more about Brendon at BrendonElliott.com and Little Linksters at littlelinksters.com.