PLAYBOOK: The Power of Pre-Shot Routines – Unlocking Consistency in Your Game

a. Why It Matters

In golf, consistency is the key to success, and pre-shot routines are the foundation of a repeatable, high-level performance. Every elite golfer—whether junior, collegiate, or professional—follows a set process before every shot. A great pre-shot routine includes both mental and physical elements, allowing players to:

Enhance Focus and Confidence – A structured routine clears distractions and builds trust in your swing.

Improve Decision-Making – A solid routine ensures each shot is backed by a clear strategy and commitment.

Manage Pressure More Effectively – Familiarity breeds confidence. Under pressure, your routine becomes an anchor that keeps nerves in check.

Eliminate Hesitation and Doubt – A consistent process prevents second-guessing and reactive decisions.

Develop a Rhythm and Tempo – Your routine sets the tone for fluid, repeatable swings, leading to more consistent ball striking.

Your pre-shot routine isn’t just about hitting good shots—it’s about building a process that holds up under tournament pressure.

b. How Do I: Model It – Celebrate It – Cultivate It

Model It:

Commit to a Consistent Routine – Perform the same pre-shot steps before every shot, regardless of situation.

Include Mental and Physical Elements – A great routine involves a mental checklist (visualization, commitment) and physical habits (practice swings, setup).

Stay Present – Focus entirely on the shot at hand, blocking out distractions and negative thoughts.

Celebrate It:

Recognize When It Works – When a routine leads to a great shot under pressure, acknowledge its impact.

Learn from the Best – Study how elite golfers use pre-shot routines to maintain consistency in all conditions.

Cultivate It:

Create a Repeatable Process – Design a routine that fits your game and stick to it in both practice and competition.

Use Mental Triggers – Develop a keyword or deep breath to reset your mind before every shot.

Visualize Success – See the shot you want to hit before stepping up to the ball.

Practice Under Pressure – Simulate tournament conditions in practice to reinforce the effectiveness of your routine.

Pulse Check: Gauge Your Pre-Shot Routine Consistency

Consider how true these are of you:

I use the same routine before every shot, whether in practice or competition.

I visualize my intended shot before stepping into my setup.

My routine includes both mental and physical elements.

I take a deep breath or use a mental trigger to reset before every shot.

I commit fully to my target and club selection before swinging.

My routine helps me stay calm and confident under pressure.

I avoid rushing or skipping steps, even when playing poorly.

I practice my routine regularly to ensure it holds up in competition.

Score Yourself:

7-8 True: You have an elite pre-shot routine! Keep refining it to maximize consistency.

4-6 True: You’re on the right path. Focus on making your routine second nature.

0-3 True: Start building a routine today—consistency in your process leads to consistency in your game!

Golf is unpredictable, but your process doesn’t have to be. A great pre-shot routine is the key to unlocking consistency and confidence in every round. Do you have a process you trust?