Course Management · Tip
Safe Target, Confident Swing
Part of our course management programs for big numbers, picking targets. Build a program with it
A big mistake is aiming at flags without thinking about your misses. Everyone's shots spread out in a pattern. If you tend to miss left and the pin is tucked left, aiming at it brings trouble into play. Aim toward the middle instead. Then the same miss ends up safe. Before each approach, check where the trouble is and where your usual miss goes. Pick a safe target. Then make a bold, committed swing at it.
Step by step
- Know your usual miss.
- See where the trouble is.
- Pick a target that keeps misses safe.
- Swing with full commitment.
- Repeat: safe target, confident swing.
Why it works
Every golfer's shots land in a spread around the aim point, and that spread is fairly consistent. If you move the aim point so the spread falls mostly on safe ground, your bad shots cost less. A safe target also removes the fear of the penalty, so you can swing freely and make cleaner contact.
Common mistakes
- You aim at the flag even when the pin is close to trouble.Aim at the middle of the green or the widest safe part, and treat the pin as a bonus only when the miss is safe.
- You pick a safe target but then steer the ball with a tentative swing.Settle on the target before you take your stance, then make your normal full swing to that spot.
- You plan for your best shot instead of your usual miss.Think back over your last several approaches, name where they typically finish, and set the target so that miss stays in play.
How you'll know it's working
- Your misses finish on the green, the fringe or in short grass instead of in hazards.
- You can name your target and your usual miss before every approach shot.
- Your swing feels the same on every approach, with no slowing down or steering through impact.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Practice on a par 3 or in a practice round with wide greens, and choose the center of the green every time.
Harder: Apply it to every approach in a full round, and write down your target, your miss and the result after each shot.
Common questions
Should I ever aim at the flag?
Yes, when your usual miss still ends up safe on both sides of the pin. If trouble sits next to the flag on the side you miss, aim at the middle.
How do I find out my usual miss?
Watch where your approach shots finish over several rounds or a practice session. Note whether they tend to go left, right, short or long, and use that pattern when you choose your target.
