Back in April I shared my thoughts on the ProGolf IQ mental training programme. I’ve found this programme to be one of the most beneficial game-changing “tools” I’ve ever tested.
To recap, The Pro Golf IQ programme consists of a series of audio sessions that you simply download and listen to via your favourite electronic device. You listen to one session three times a week via headphones, in the comfort of your home. The system (which uses a unique process called Inter-hemispheric Synchronic Mediation (ISM) plus several other key techniques) teaches you how to get both the left AND right sides of your brain working together, while also helping you create ‘quiet time’ in your mind; which is critical to playing like a pro.
I also mentioned supplementary modules that are also available for the programme and this month, I’ll share my thoughts on three modules: Driving IQ, Pitching IQ and Putting IQ.
First up was Driving IQ. This module helps you develop a solid visual plan for not just finding the fairway, but for getting your ball to land exactly where you want it. It teaches you how to examine the hole from the tee, rate the potential hazards that are in play (and subsequently shun them from your mind), and then visualise a positive ball flight. It also helps you relax, and develop a solid warm-up prior to your round; getting your mind “into the game” prior to the first tee. It effectively boosts your confidence from the tee, and can make a massive difference to your long game.
Next was Pitching IQ. Pitching and chipping are among the most troublesome areas for many golfers. Whether it’s from 100m out, just around the greens, or from a greenside bunker, many golfers are simply satisfied to “just get out of trouble” or “just get it on the green”. Pitching IQ helps you change that attitude to maximise every shot. It helps you remove any fear of the obstacles, empowering you to “swing to win” and pitch with confidence.
Finally, as the old saying goes, you “Drive for Show, Putt for Dough”. The Putting IQ module helps you to eliminate the stress from putting by giving you an established process to identify your preferred putting line and speed, and then firmly fix it into your mind. The exercise comprises the visualisation of an imaginary “track” between your ball and the hole; the depth and shape of the track depends on the speed/line of the putt. By intensely visualising your putt prior to the stroke, you eliminate uncertainty and improve confidence. Putting IQ takes a bit more practice to master than the other modules, but it can certainly give the most benefit.
So how did I go with these? Well, I had the opportunity to put all three modules into practice recently during a highly-intense competition at my local club.
Gone were the usual first-tee “butterflies”; instead, I had a relaxed and calm attitude, and proceeded to stripe my drives down the middle, while my pitching and putting were out of this world.
With Stableford scores of 3-4-3-3 on my first four holes, I felt unbeatable. Throughout the round, I felt the benefits of the complete ProGolf IQ suite of products. And though my team only managed a runner-up finish (pipped at the post by a single shot!) I certainly felt like I had won.
I wholeheartedly recommend that if you are looking to boost your mental game when on the course (and enjoy a “balanced brain” approach that professional golfers employ) then give the ProGolf IQ and supplementary modules a serious look.
