Golf SMART in 2025

By Dr. Jean Harris

Contributor

   I am sitting at my computer in late December thinking about my golf goals for 2025.  Last year was a difficult time for me physically with wrist fusion surgery on my right wrist.  I was unable to swing a golf club for seven months.  Therefore, I didn’t reach my golf goals last year.

     This year, I am going to be more realistic in goal setting since I have lost a lot of distance, and I am still hesitant to hit down at the golf ball.  I am also in my 70s and need to realize that I have to put more emphasis on my short game since I am not as strong and flexible as I once was.   Therefore, I plan on working more in the fitness area, 60 yards in, and putting.

SMART goals are:

• Specific

• Measurable 

• Achievable

• Realistic

• Time based

Specific – I will go to the fitness center four days a week.  I will work on strength, flexibility and endurance.  I will keep track of my progress on certain machines, time on the treadmill and changes in free weights. I will play golf at least two times a week with friends and practice twice a week.  I will work on being more positive and focused during my round of golf.

Measurable – Make sure you write down your goals. I will keep track of all my rounds of golf.  I will write down scoring goals for the day.  I will keep track of fairways hit, greens in regulation and putts. Keeping track of my game will help me know what to practice.  Setting scoring goals will help me stay more competitive.

Achievable – My goals must be something that can be reached with the proper amount of practice.  If I don’t think I can achieve the goal, I won’t.  I want my goals something that makes me happy and better in my golf game.

Realistic – My goals have to be believable to me.  Hitting my driver 200 yards will not be something I can do, so why put that pressure on me.  Setting short-term goals help you be more realistic.

Time based – Set dates that you want to assess the goals.   I will increase my flexibility, strength and cardiovascular endurance by July 1.  I will lower my handicap by three strokes by September 1.

   Don’t be afraid to get help with your golf goals.  Contacting a fitness trainer or golf professional will help you with goal setting.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional at Pinecrest Golf Club. Jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com