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Strike is king

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:03:33 GMT

Strike is king

Something I encounter daily is many clients struggling with certain shot shapes and they come for answers as to why the ball is travelling that way. Often its preceded by a search down a rabbit hole on YouTube to find out if its Clubface or Swing path or a combination of both. Sometimes it is one of those factors but often what gets missed in the self diagnosis is the contact point on the clubface.

A lot of golfers don't appreciate the major effects that off centre strikes can have. As a general rule a toe strike will tend to move the ball in a right to left shape and opposite for heel strikes. (Right handed golfer) Extreme toe strikes can cause a 45 degree ball flight along with the dreaded shank from the extreme heel (hosel) That's where it can get confusing for golfers as many players think the shank is actually coming from the toe and stand even closer. But I also work with many experienced high level golfers who often strike it off centre and cant find the simple root cause of the curved ball flight.

One of the major reasons for this is club technology and the modern clubs are so good that players can't feel the off centre strike unless they have very high awareness.

The solution: As part of any practice session make sure you do some strike work, use tape on the clubface or foot spray/ dry shampoo also does the job well and will give you some great feedback on the strike location. We discussed above heel to toe strikes, but you will also see the patterns from top to bottom of clubface. This clarity of knowing your strike patterns will also help your coach get to the route cause of issues quicker.

So to summarise; ball flight curvature and also distance issues may not be technical swing issues or path or face issues, it may be as simple as where the ball is struck on the clubface. Now this could be made more difficult by how the club enters into impact but always start the search with contact.....because CONTACT is KING

Lets talk about practice

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 21:39:41 GMT

Lets talk about practice

Golf is unique in that we have so many specialist areas to practice that many people lose sight of what the game actually is like that we are trying to improve at. We have driving ranges, indoor studios, backyard nets...a whole industry in itself of training aids and information and we are led to believe that the more we practice the better we will get. So here are a few tips for heading to the driving range on quality vs quantity.

Firstly, if it doesn’t look like Golf or feel like Golf, then its probably not really going to help you improve your Golf game. What do I mean by that? Well Golf is a game of problem solving with different environmental factors on different surfaces. It’s very rare that we will use the same club twice or try to hit it the same distance and yet that’s what many practice facilities have created.

100 balls to the same target, with the same club, at the same distance can potentially improve some technical issues but ultimately it still has to be transferred back to the game you are trying to play.

So next time you are at the range here are a few recommendations to take on board.

1. Don’t go into the range facility until you have decided what outcomes you are looking to try and achieve, and how you are going to set about achieving them. This could be improving your strike, adapting a pre-shot routine or hitting shots under pressure.

2. Split the balls up into sections. For example in a basket of 60 balls you may hit 5/10 warm up shots with a short club and progress through the bag with the only intention of getting loose. (I would also recommend adding in a few golf specific stretches to aid your warm up first.) Then you may hit 15 balls working on a certain move to improve a certain factor at impact that improves the ball flight (see how they work together..) this is often based upon something technical you have worked on with your coach. You may do this with use of video or some other kind of feedback. (We even give live online lessons on the range to many clients now, so keep that in mind to ensure you stay on track.)

Then I would progress onto switching clubs, varying targets and potentially designing a game on the range using targets that are out there and give yourself a score and record it. This could be based upon quality of strike or where it finished or both. Many ranges now have Top Tracer or Trackman and are great for creative practice and a score.

3. Design a game that has some levels to it, so you can’t progress to the next level until you have achieved a certain task. This brings in a certain element of pressure and recreates that feeling we all have when your hand are shaking and palms are sweaty!! Every ball should matter.

4. If you can find time, practice on the course once per week even better, this doesn’t mean taking lots of divots and hitting hundreds of balls. It means creating situations that are real, improve your skill level and demand your attention. You could play the even numbered holes with even numbered clubs or add an extra shot if you miss the fairway on a certain side or drag any putt back one length that finished inside 3 feet.

I hope that’s answered my question that ultimately the quality of your practice is much more important than the quantity. Let us know how you practice at the moment and check out our social channels for games that you could use to improve practice.

Junior Demo Day

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 22:03:13 GMT

Junior Demo Day at Broadlees Golf

Demo Day for Junior Golfers
Date- 30th November 2025
Time- 10am till 2pm
Location- Broadlees Golf
Brand- MKids Golf

We have been looking to have a demo day for junior golfers for a few years now and we believe MKids are the best brand to do this with.

Why MKids

At MKids ^® we are passionate about junior golf and want to give young players the best possible start in the game by providing the best equipment to allow future stars to shine.

It's all about the FIT

Years of research has resulted in a range of clubs designed with player height, strength and swing speed in mind. The specification is progressive in every way, allowing for growth spurts of 4"/10cm, enabling the smallest starter to teenage golfers to play with confidence and reach their full potential.

What to expect at the demo day

We will measure your child to get the correct fit
They can then try the latest clubs from MKids
PGA Professional Paul McKay will offer a few tips to improve their swing
You will be entered into a free prize draw to win a set of MKids clubs
Discounts available on the day
Find out about our golf club rental opportunities

If you have any questions about this demo day then please don't hesitate to get in touch. Please feel free to share.

Visit the MKids website here

The Importance of Staying Calm

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 21:47:02 GMT

The Importance of Staying Calm

Staying calm on the golf course is essential for maintaining focus, executing shots effectively, and enjoying the game. Golf can be mentally challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can manage stress and keep your cool. Here are some tips:

Develop a Pre-Shot Routine

A consistent pre-shot routine helps you focus and prepares your mind and body for each shot. Before each shot, take a few deep breaths, visualize your shot, align your body, and make a practice swing. This routine can calm your nerves and build confidence. Staying focused on the present shot helps you avoid getting overwhelmed by thinking too far ahead. Break the round down into individual shots. Your goal is to execute the best shot possible at that moment, without worrying about the final score.

Practice Mindfulness and Deep Breathing

Mindfulness helps you stay present and focused, reducing anxiety about past mistakes or future shots. If you feel tense, take a few deep breaths to calm your mind. Focus on the in and the out-breath and stay in the present moment—feel the club in your hand, hear the wind, and let go of distractions.

Manage Expectations

Setting realistic goals for your round can prevent frustration and really help you stay positive. Accepting that not every shot will be perfect. We wake up feeling different most days and the conditions are generally different from day to day so accepting our inconsistences is key.

Post Routine

Holding onto mistakes can lead to frustration and negatively impact your performance. After a bad shot, give yourself a moment to acknowledge the mistake, then consciously let it go. You could use a trigger like once you have placed your club back in the bag or take your glove off, its time to let go of the shot.

Stay Patient and Persistent

Golf requires patience; understanding that some days will be better than others will help manage frustration. If you have a rough start, remind yourself that there is plenty of time to recover. Focus on playing one hole at a time and keep a positive attitude throughout the round.

Staying cool on the golf course is as much about mental discipline as it is about physical skill. By cultivating the right mindset, managing stress, and embracing the challenges that golf presents, you can improve your performance and enjoy the game more, even on the tough days.

Simple equipment checks for more spin

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 08:44:22 GMT

Simple equipment checks for more spin.

It’s always nice to hit a little spinny one from the edge of the green and raise a few eyebrows from your playing partners. But are you making this more difficult than it could be? In previous blogs, I have touched on some of the technical aspects required to generate more spin but it’s equally important to have the equipment side covered.

1. Double down on using a premium golf ball with a urethane cover – this will result in lower ball speed and much greater friction.

2. Clean grooves – sounds like a simple one but I see many golfers with dirty grooves.

3. Fresh grooves – how old are your wedges? We are guilty of buying a new shiny driver but how much attention are your wedges getting?

4. Keep them dry – dry grooves will help improve a higher level of frictio n.

Put an emphasis on these simple equipment tips to help maximise your spin around the greens.

Maintaining Flow in Your Golf Swing

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 09:41:16 GMT

Maintaining Flow in Your Golf Swing

"Maintaining Flow in Your Golf Swing: The Art of Keeping Moving"

Golf, unlike many other sports, presents a unique challenge: we stand still over a static ball, while in other sports, athletes react to moving objects. Have you ever found yourself stuck over the ball, struggling to take the club back or losing your flow? Let's delve into why this happens and explore ways to regain your rhythm on the golf course.

1. Overloaded with Thoughts

One of the leading causes of getting stuck over the ball is an overload of thoughts. Whether it's a multitude of swing-related concerns or constant worry about the outcome of your shot, too much information can paralyze your swing. Golf involves processing a vast amount of information, including environmental factors. When we add too many internal cues to the mix, our brains become overwhelmed, leading to that feeling of being stuck.

2. Embrace a Trigger

Many of the world's best players employ trigger movements to initiate their swings. Whether it's Bryan Harman or Sergio Garcia's multiple club waggles or Patrick Cantlay’s well-known foot move trigger, these players use these motions as a "starter motor" to begin their swings. These triggers help them find comfort, begin a sequence of events, and the right timing and rhythm for their swings. Removing these triggers could lead to a significant loss in performance. If you find yourself feeling grounded and struggling to start your swing, consider incorporating more dynamic movements into your pre-shot routine.

3. Beware of Information Overload

Excessive thinking can rob you of your trigger movements. Focusing intensely on specific aspects of your swing, such as your takeaway, can interfere with your natural flow, especially if you have habitual trigger movements. Reflect on your thought process during your best rounds. If you're unsure about your trigger movements, don't hesitate to ask your playing partners for observations; they may have noticed them already.

In conclusion, keeping your golf swing in rhythm and flow is essential for consistent performance. Avoid information overload, embrace trigger movements, and be mindful of how your thought process impacts your swing. By staying in motion and maintaining a balanced mental state, you can break free from the feeling of being stuck over the ball and enjoy a smoother, more effective golf swing.

Cracking the Code to Break 80

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 17:29:13 GMT

Cracking the Code to Break 80

"Cracking the Code to Break 80 in Golf: Proximity, Control, and Strategy"

Breaking 80 in golf is a significant milestone that many aspire to achieve. It's a level that demands precision, control, and strategic thinking. Here, we delve into key strategies to help you reach this goal and consistently perform at your best on the golf course.

1. Tightening Your Proximity Around the Green

One noticeable difference between golfers who consistently shoot below 80 and those who struggle lies in their proximity to the hole around the green. While hitting it to 20 feet can be impressive, the best players in the world only hole out from 8 feet approximately 50% of the time. So to improve your chances of converting more up-and-down putts, focus on getting your approach shots closer. Work on your percentage shots from the fairway and the rough with ample green to work with. Mastering these shots can be a game-changer for your scoring. Also factor in where the fat side of the green is vs the short side which can be difficult to get up and down.

2. Controlling Your Behaviours

Maintaining focus and a consistent routine is crucial to your success on the golf course. It's easy to lose concentration due to frustration or lazy routines. Building a reliable pre-shot routine and leaving the previous shot behind are essential. Ask yourself the right questions, stick to your process, and accept the outcome, whether it's positive or not. Inconsistencies in your routines can lead to unforced errors, such as misjudging wind or ignoring the lie. Your temperament can also affect clubhead speed, making distance control challenging. Stay composed and maintain your routines for more consistent play.

3. Know Your Yardages

Distance control is a fundamental skill that top players excel at. While accuracy in direction matters, knowing your yardages is equally vital. Improved knowledge of your yardages will enhance your proximity to the hole and your ability to adjust distances with your clubs. Take the time to learn the specific distances you hit each club, and this knowledge will pay dividends in your scoring.

4. Learn to Play with Your Miss

Instead of fighting your miss, learn to play with it. Understanding your natural shot shape tendencies can help you make smarter decisions on the course. Golfers shooting in the 80s or 90s often aim for the fairway instead of considering their shot shape. Try to widen the fairways by leveraging your shot shape tendencies and strategize where you can miss relative to your shot shape. This approach can lead to more forgiving and strategic play.

5. Keep the Ball in Play

Penalty shots can wreak havoc on your scorecard. To break 80, focus on keeping your ball in play off the tee and avoiding hazards whenever possible. While hitting every fairway isn't necessary, understanding your miss tendencies and choosing optimal landing areas can provide greater forgiveness. If your driver isn't cooperating on a given day, have a reliable go-to club that allows you to keep the ball in play while still advancing it a decent distance off the tee. Avoiding doubles will be a much bigger gain toward breaking 80 vs trying to make birdies.

6. Avoid 3 putts

Finally, develop the skills to reduce 3 putts. This comes from developing the flexibility to deal with any pace of greens, and the ability to work them out quickly at the start of the day. Good putters don’t necessarily hole lots of footage but they hole out really well from inside 6 feet, so if this is you on a mission to break 80 get lots of holing out drills in your practice schedule.

In conclusion, breaking 80 in golf requires a combination of factors, including improving your proximity to the green, maintaining consistent behaviours, knowing your yardages, adapting to your miss tendencies, and keeping the ball in play. By integrating these strategies into your game along with solid holing out skills, you'll increase your chances of consistently achieving scores below 80 and enjoy a more rewarding golfing experience.

Short Game Release Patterns

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 09:07:17 GMT

Short Game Release Patterns

"Mastering Short-Game Release Patterns for Precision Around the Green"

In the realm of golf's short game, mastering release patterns is akin to unlocking a treasure trove of shot-making possibilities around the green.

The art lies in the diverse ways we deliver and release the clubhead or loft to achieve various trajectories and shots. Are you employing a pivot-dominant movement with minimal wrist action, or are your wrists actively involved with less reliance on pivot? Are you adding loft or reducing it? Expanding your knowledge of these release patterns can significantly enhance your short-game arsenal, a vital skill given the ever-changing dynamics of a golf course.

The Ever-Changing Nature of the Game

In the unpredictable world of golf, no two shots are alike. The lie, flag position, and contours on the green are ever-shifting variables. If your goal is to become a formidable player around the green, you need a repertoire of options to adapt to these changing conditions.

Understanding Arc Width

A useful way to comprehend release patterns is by examining the arc width of the clubhead's travel. Here's how it breaks down:

Narrow Arc: In this scenario, the clubhead travels significantly more than the hands, with minimal body rotation. It's characterized by a passive wrist release. The narrow arc is your ticket to launching high shots. This method allows for generating substantial clubhead speed over a short span, providing the ability to manipulate loft effectively. It's perfect for hitting high shots with precise stopping power on those pins just a short distance away. Mastery of this shot is highly valuable but comes with a steeper learning curve. In the finish position, expect the butt of the club to point more towards the ground.

Medium Arc: A medium arc release is a blend of body rotation and controlled wrist loading/unloading. Depending on your club selection, this release pattern is ideal for achieving a mid-trajectory shot with a soft landing. In the finish position, the butt of the club typically points towards your lead pocket, which is the one closest to the target.

Wide Arc: The wide arc release pattern is your go-to for lower shots or bump-and-run shots. Here, you set the loft at the address and execute a pivot-dominant movement. In the finish position, the butt of the club is oriented more towards your belt buckle.

Embrace Playfulness and Experimentation

In the quest to master short-game release patterns, don't shy away from experimentation. While you may naturally gravitate towards one end of the spectrum, trying out different options can be both fun and enlightening. Golf is as much about discovery as it is about mastery, so explore the nuances of release patterns, and you'll find that your short game becomes a canvas for creativity and precision.

In conclusion, understanding and mastering short-game release patterns can be a game-changer for your performance around the green. Whether you're facing a high-stakes approach shot or a delicate chip, having a range of release patterns in your repertoire empowers you to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the golf course. So, embrace the art of release patterns, and watch your short game flourish.

Will my golf ball really help me?

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 11:04:04 GMT

Will my golf ball really help me?

Playing the right golf ball for you can help you for sure but what do you need from your golf ball? Struggling to get any spin around the green? Hitting it high with lots of spin or struggling to get enough distance with your irons?

More spin around the green

If you struggle to produce any spin around the green, then there are plenty of other reasons that could be responsible for this, but I would say the golf ball is a core fundamental to help with this, and the best players in the world would struggle to spin a golf ball which doesn’t have a urethane cover on it. So don’t panic at the range when you aren’t spinning your wedges!!

If you are currently playing a 2-piece distance ball which generally consists of a low-compression inner core and a firmer outer casing, you are going to get a faster ball speed and less friction as the outer casing material will slide as opposed to gripping the face. Both these factors are contributing to the low amount of spin around the green.

Playing a 3 or 4-piece golf ball would be more desirable to produce a slower ball speed and greater friction which will be very influential in producing more spin around the green.

Improving my ball flight

If you are a golfer who hits its really high with lots of spin then there are balls on the market that will help bring the flight down and lower the spin. There are obviously some larger fundamental issues here as to why this happens, but you can make some easy wins with changing golf balls. For example, the Titleist AVX offers a low launch and low spin with the longer clubs but still offers high spin around the green.

For the golfer who launches it low with less spin then the Titleist Pro v1x is a great option that helps increase both of these factors. On top of this you need to factor in personal feel, what you like around the greens and off the putter face.

Overall, I would recommend getting a ball fitting from your local pro shop to find a ball that suits the characteristics of your game, and then get used to using that ball during practice and tournaments, jumping from ball to ball is not great in a game where consistency is King.

Are you stepping in too early?

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 09:31:05 GMT

Are you stepping in too early?

Are you constantly getting in your own way whilst out on the course? Hit one bad shot and that’s you trying a new swing thought? It’s so easy to get into this habit but when should we step in and what should we be looking for?

3 Strikes and you are Out!

I like to adopt a 3 strike rule...If you hit 3 shots with a very similar destructive pattern, say you slice 3 tee shots in a row into the trees on the right, or every approach shot you hit the strike is behind the ball? Then it’s time to adapt and change.

Feedback Loop

Hopefully, off the course you are working on something that is benefitting the strike or flight of your golf ball and you can transfer this process onto the course. What could a feedback loop look like?

Use your golf shot as the ammo to help you adjust the needle to the desired move. What was the flight like? Where did it start relative to my intended target? Did it have curvature on it? If so, which way did it curve? What was the trajectory like? What part of the face did it come off? What was the contact with the ground like? Before or after the ball? There will be something within these questions that are very specific to your tendencies. Hopefully you understand why your ball does what it does, and then we can adapt to the more desirable move by analysing our golf shots. Its important when working with your coach that you don't just take instruction but you ask why you are making the recommended adjustments.

Adaptability wins

Learning to be a master of your feedback loop is going to help you become a more adaptable golfer which is key to improving your golf. Why? We are always changing, and the environment is always changing so learning to adapt when things aren’t what they were 3 holes ago is key to great golf. Sometimes consistency is not the answer but adaptability.

Stabilise your lower body for better distance control

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 20:22:49 GMT

Stabilise your lower body for better distance control when you putt

Many of us can't control the distance of our putts, we leave the first long putt we have short, and then the next long putt we have rushes several feet by. One of the main reasons for this is the extra movement in the lower half of your body. Your lower body turns on the way back and the on the way through, thus opening and closing your putter face throughout the stroke.

In the picture above the top stance shows the more conventional stance where your feet may flare out slightly, this helps us rotate the hips in the swing but can be destructive when we putt. The bottom stance shows the feet turned in a little.

The next time you practice your putting, experiment with the angles of your feet. When you turn them in you will notice that your lower body is more stable. This in turn will help you keep your putter face more stable giving you a better start line and improve your distance control.

Have a go and let me know how you get on.