I often wonder if watching professional golf helps my golf game. I have no doubt that these athletes can perform regularly, but as an aging amateur I’m not sure if what they do applies to my game development. I mean, they hit the ball at least 40 to 50 yards further than I did off the tee; their irons strike a country mile; they can putt quite well; and they are as slow as molasses trying to roll up the hill in January. Nothing they do applies to my game. So other than watching professional golf for entertainment, I see no value in anything they do that benefits my golf game. Will you?
To be honest, I like watching the Majors and that’s about it. I used to try to play for hours at regular tournaments, but now I find it’s a waste of time. The pace of play is way too slow and the announcers don’t keep my attention. I try to pay attention to situational learning tips and find that even this isn’t worth my time. Not even the Ryder Cup could pique my interest this year. Maybe it’s just me, but watching professional golf on TV is now less attractive than ever.
I’m not going to discuss the split of professional golf into LIV and the PGA. It’s a rabbit hole discussion that diluted both leagues.
I do try to watch videos on how to improve my game and I use them often at The Grateful Golfer. The trick with these videos is that I have to try to incorporate them into my training time. I usually try out most videos and given the state of my game, just practicing is a good idea. For beginners who are just learning to play golf, watching simple training videos is much more beneficial than watching professionals play golf. Of course, that’s just my opinion and it’s not based on any research or data collection.
To be honest, my opinion is not the end all be all. As a senior player, I make my decision about what works for my game and only my game. You’ll have to decide for yourself. The other side of the coin about watching professional golfers on TV is this:
“If you pay attention, you can learn a lot to improve your golf swing, grip, putting performance and more by listening to course commentators and watching the pros. From the start you will hear commentators discussing and explaining a golfer’s stance, his strategy for the first shot and his finish.” (https://redlandsmesa.com/how-watching-golf-can-make-you-a-better-golfer/)
After a search on the subject, the above paragraph seems to be the consensus when it comes to watching professional golf.
Watching golf to improve your game takes some effort. It’s entertaining to watch the players make huge drives or play from difficult lies, but focusing on decision-making can help your game to some extent. I guess it all comes down to what you are looking for or what you need to improve your golf game. Personally, there is another way to improve your game by tapping into the experience of professional golfers.
A golf lesson from your local professional is probably the best idea to improve your golf game. These teachers generally understand your playing needs by looking at your swing with a golf club. They can help you with course management and are a valuable resource if you want to lower your golf scores. Personally, I recommend talking to your local professional to see if they can help your game or not.
The bottom line is that you have to decide for yourself whether watching professional golf on TV is worth it. For many, it provides entertainment value and that is certainly a good thing. If it helps improve your game, then that’s a double win. No matter what you decide, remember to be grateful and have fun!
I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!
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