A reality check, bad golf, and big decisions

[@stephenburling3625]

Hi Rob I am an 19 handicap 59 year hold. I’ve been watching KZbin videos for a few years trying to put things right. I have now decided to watch only videos from Danny Maude for the reasons you mentioned as well as Pete Cowan. For the mental side I have read a number of books fro Bob Rotella a golf psychologist. Start with a book called “Golf is not a game of perfection” and the “15th club” I would do this before having lessons to get your mind working correctly Good luck and stop worrying about scratch I’d give anything to be a single figure handicap unless your playing competitive who cares what your handicap is. All the best Steve

[@lawrencetaylor1197]

Golf = the biggest mental game on the planet! I have been struggling lately on the mental front outside of golf and it can have such an impact on your game. Keep plugging away pal.

[@Robk363]

This video hits the nail on the head for me. I'm an 11.7 handicap that when plays well can comfortably play single figure golf but on the flip side can feel like a complete beginner again. I've been guilty of playing 'golf swing' instead of actual golf, a hundred swing thoughts and worrying too much about how I'm my swing looks on camera ect. Lately I've told myself to forget all about that and just play my game and it does seem to be helping.

[@RobMcGarr]

I think you're on the right path there dude!

[@GerarddeVries]

I am one of those technical people. I remember when I stood on a tea box, in adres position and not knowing what to do next. My advice is to use 1 and only one golf system. I currently use the stack and tilt method. That way you make a back swing that gets you in position for the matching down swing. O and do not drink 3 coffees or 2 redbuls before a round

[@jamesthomson11]

Hi Rob. Glad your back to golf. Stick local for lessons and have them more often. If you start travelling for lessons or going somewhere expensive surely you're just going to start piling pressure on yourself to perform like a pro. Keep it local and enjoy your lessons and golf.

[@typeosign5094]

It's definitely not your swing, it's 100% your mental game. I struggle with the same things. As soon as you said you were excited to impress your friends with your game, you put yourself at a severe disadvantage. As soon as you put expectations on yourself, everything falls apart. The best golf is always played with no expectations, no thoughts, no analysis. One way to practice playing under pressure is to give yourself pressure games. For instance with short putts, try to hole 20 three foot putts in a row. Don't move on to the next game until you complete the task. Should be easy, but by the time you get to 19, you start feeling the pressure. You have a harder time staying loose and fluid. Same with Chipping. Try chipping 5 ten yard chips in a row within 3 feet. Or 5 iron shots in a row onto the green, etc etc. Really helps you deal with playing in pressure situations.

[@user_1664]

Change your expectations , whenever I’m looking forward to a round cos I’m stripeing it and feel a pb coming on the wheels are normally well off the bus by the third and then the frustration locks me out of any shots . I’m currently trying every way possible of adding some calm into my post and pre shots just so I can rescue something and get off the course with all my clubs . It’s definitely a mental thing , trust your swing not your negative thoughts .

[@alisonburgess345]

A couple of things no-one else has mentioned that I've come to realise can massively help. If you have a smartwatch with a sleep monitor, it's important to get between one and two hours of DEEP sleep before you play golf. I've been logging this and if I get less than an hours worth, i just CANNOT play well, even though I don't feel too bad. Also, try meditation - 12 minutes every day really helps you focus. Good luck!

[@alanlovesgolf3462]

Rob, this happened exactly the same to me on my recent club championships. During my warm up I was so nervous and started shanking the ball. Lost all confidence. Fought myself all the way round. Was totally mental…….next day was completely fine….trust yourself buddy!

[@davehurley26]

I'm off 4.6 my club championship Saturday I shot 72 Sunday I shot 83 then Monday I shot 73 lol mind blowing. I just hit the shot then accept where the ball ends up I can only control hitting the ball so I just laugh at my bad shots then forget about it and move to the next .. also having banter walking the fairways and enjoying walking the course.

[@james8736]

I had the same thing a couple of years ago. I'd been playing the best golf of my life for about 2 months leading up to a captains tour in spain, went there super confident and ended up coming last man out 15 of us😅... i know your looking for technical changes but i've had a mental swing thought recently that has really helped... try and be really happy when you are standing over the ball. I mean actually smile and try to b really super happy.... i thought id had every swing thought ever both mental and technical. Literally hundreds, some that have worked for a while some that have stayed for ever and some that was a disaster... but only after over 10years have i said just feel estatic standing over every shot. Might help you, might not, but has really helped me recently, especially putting.

[@ronb521]

Hey Rob, long term subscriber here, great to have you back. I am a PGA pro and split my time between coaching and playing and would be happy to help you in any way either online or in person! For what it’s worth my opinion is it’s not a case of ignoring swing mechanics and going 100% Adam Young and it’s definitely not a case of going 100% swing mechanics and getting lost. It’s somewhere inbetween, there are mechanical issues in all of our swings which produce inconsistencies yours too however working on our swings is only one part of the large pie of improving at golf. It’s very important to make sure to work on all the other elements of the game to- strategy/mental/pitching/ putting bunkers etc, and have a plan which includes practicing all the different parts. I’d also recommend getting some sort of statistic tracker so you can clearly see strengths and weaknesses and whether or not a particular swing change or move really is resulting in better scores. Would love to help, send over a swing or get in touch would be happy to give some free advice 👍

[@thatwilldonicely1314]

hi Rob, for the next 2 weeks on the range and at the practice ground on your course, only do the classic feet together drill, after each 10 feet together shots (use a range of irons from wedge to 5 etc and the driver, fairways etc) let yourself hit one full normal stance shot, so in 100 balls you will hit only 10 full 'real' shots, and of course do your short game practice !! also buy 'the elements of scoring' by Ray Floyd (if you haven't got it already, if you have, read it again assiduously. You don't need lessons, you already know what to do. Cheers

[@jamichael9386]

Rob! Crikey! You have NO complaints, you are what you are, and you ain't what you ain't!

[@garychristie147]

"Who is this knob with a tripod and camera".. NO WAY Rob you inspire me and can't wait for your videos to come out. We all go through nerves mate 🙂 What sets you aside from every other channel is you bare your soul for us all to see. You are awesome, I truly think you would be surprised at how many people you inspire..

[@RobMcGarr]

Thank you man, that means a lot 💛 (I'm still a knob with a tripod and camera though!)

[@seancook2264]

Great video and something I think almost all golfers deal with at one time or another. Takes some time to get you head and game to be competition ready. I have a good friend who grapples with this constantly. Personally I have embedded a secondary distraction into my routine. It started just to deal with putting but I use it on all shots. Can be just humming a song or counting. Distracts the conscious mind from trying to control the swing mechanics and worry about consequences etc. It Leaves the subconscious mind to get on with getting the ball where you want it to go. I’d keep away from going down technical rabbit holes and focus on mentally getting out of your own way.

[@kemeys1990]

After an 18 month lay off because of a bad back I'm nervous about rejoining the regular morning roll up. I've lost my handicap so I'm nervous about what level I can get back to. But I've sooooh missed it. Your story is so relatable and well worth following. You'll get there. I always remember a few years ago Rory had a 65 in Round 1 at the Masters. He's back everyone said! Day 2 74. WTF! Golf is hard.

[@RobMcGarr]

Just enjoy being back in the mix mate and remember how much you've missed it, whatever happens!

[@petel3366]

It was interesting that you said when you didn’t have any swing thoughts when you were playing well. Do you have a “routine” ? And do you have a tune in your head for your rhythm? Finally are you aware of where you balance is in your feet ? That might seem strange but if your balance is too much to your toes or too much to your heals then it will change your swing massively even if you’re swinging the same rhythm? Just a couple of thoughts. Nil desperandum - believe- I think you have all the tools just need to go use them!

[@MrDunna100]

Great video and love the honesty as always. Golf is hard! I have been/am going through a similar thing, one week good, next week terrible etc. Personally I’d recommend seeing a local coach you like as then you can get some consistency with your lessons and probably get a playing lesson with them so they see your tendencies on the course, not just whatever swing you turn up with on the range that day

[@templemat]

I would chose Zen to declutter your swing thoughts. Play some comps to get used to playing for a score again. I gave up for 20 years, came back & playing awful, used a good pro to iron out some issues & now concentrate on short game & scoring.

[@longevity-essentials]

Go and see Marcus!! and then, dare I suggest something... when you're hitting a bucket of balls, video EVERY one of your swings on an ipad, you might need a clip on wide angle lense thing and fall in love with the minor details (this is probably the opposite of what Marcus would say, but it's worked for me.) I do this in my garage and can manipulate so many things now in my swing I feel I have it under control.. also, I have a handful of bad habits I'm always keeping an eye on as they sneak back in from time to time. Good luck mate!

[@Aaronfps2]

I got to single figures for the first time on Wednesday now 9.4

[@RobMcGarr]

Nice work!

[@dougm659]

Rob, you have a fundamentally solid golf game, the only pressure you’re feeling is the pressure you’re putting on yourself! Check out the Golf Sidekick channel, he’s a hilarious South African dude living in Thailand and teaching us all that it doesn’t matter! It’s just a goddam game, enjoy it! Revel in the good shots and laugh at the bad ones….once you’ve shaken off your self-imposed shackles, your game will blossom!

[@ThinkingMan482]

Totally get the bit about nervousness. I'm not sure how to get away from it. I don't think playing under pressure a lot will necessarily help. I think it has more to do with expectations and attitude when you play. If you're worrying about the result of every swing it's going to be a long day. I try, with varying success, to forget about consequences and think about how nice it will be to hit the ball as beautifully as I do in practice. Look forward to a beautiful result, don't worry about whether or not it will happen on this particular swing. Know that it will happen if you can relax and let yourself swing as you know you can. Another thing I've tried when I am really struggling is to never stop still before hitting the shot. Make a couple of relaxed and positive practice swings, step up and swing before I've had a chance to get anxious. Good luck getting through this. It's affected my game in a big way and hasn't gone away easily. Anxiety has s way of building on itself. Before long, you're anxious about getting anxious and you're building a history of horrible feelings when standing over the ball. Not easy to get away from.

[@cynt1111]

My son is a monster, 22 ,tall , athletic I asked him the other night what his swing thoughts were. Reply”I just put it down and twat it as hard as I can” par 5’s are driver 7 iron , his swing looks fantastic.

[@RobMcGarr]

Works for DJ!

[@gurjrai]

I’m a 17 handicapper, but an odd one. I hit my 5 iron regularly 200 yards but often hit my driver only 230 yards. I have a non existent short game and can’t putt for shit. Went out Thursday shot 78 on a par 70. Went out today and shot 90. I love golf but sometimes 😡🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬

[@joshleech8146]

I am hooked on your videos! I sending them to all my golf buddies. This reminds me so much of my journey. I sure wish I could play 18 with you some day!

[@RobMcGarr]

I might organise a golf day next year!

[@leeparker700]

Get lessons and stick with a long term plan , i have found recently that after 6 lessons this year I am starting to get the benefits of gradual learning , plenty of disciplined practice , one small change at a time , I had a spell of too many swing thoughts on the course , recently playing better on the course by having one basic swing thought for the day . Having lessons does clutter the brain a bit , takes discipline to leave the mechanics to the range and just play golf on the course , love the channel, would love to see the lessons Cheers

[@vidvivvid]

Totally normal to feel the pressure. Some people I play with always play great as relaxed. Others I find tough. Maybe when it’s more pressure. With your swing and how well you know you can hit it-maybe having a single drill before each swing to get the feeling/ positions you want and then just sitting up and hitting it will help shake off those unwanted thoughts. Don’t have to make it too robot like. But a solid confidence inspiring short routine will help.

[@RobMcGarr]

Yeah that's a good shout mate. I've been trying a lot of different things in terms of routine lately (not having practice strokes on the green etc) which I guess breeds inconsistency. I used to have a pretty short and simple routine I'd always stick to.

[@kfraser01]

Great video. I feel your pain, have experienced the same. I sort of fixed the situation by training short game a lot so that I could use that to get me out of trouble.

[@allenwilson8913]

Always enjoy your videos. Probably because I am in about the same spot with my golf as you are. It’s all about confidence but it’s hard to have confidence if you stand over the ball and have no idea where it’s going. I would vote for the local teacher that you can see more often.

[@scratchjourneygolf]

Lots of great options and loved the added option of trawling through youtube 😂 - keep it going and keep posting, you’re videos are an inspiration to me and I imagine, many others

[@scottladds7574]

Hey rob I have only been playing actual rounds of golf since this June, but been hitting balls on range and short game stuff since last may (wanted the perfect swing and to be good and not go out and look stupid, really high expectations with not even playing a round yet turned into anxiety and stalling) I travelled before this season to more expensive high reputation instructors for these one off kind of lessons and did not really get enough from it and to much information in brief space of time. So I played first few rounds based on this and shot 99 couple of lower 90s then started moving back up the high 90s till I hit 106. Got mad at myself and Decided to go with my local coarse pro because I could see him regular (once a week and get a good price as it’s a more permanent plan) from 1st week with him dropped from that 106 score back down to low 90s every week after for last 4 weeks my score has been dropping I have not shot above 80s in a month and my last round was my best round of 83. I 100 percent can say that this is all down to my coach and the regular lessons because we work on 1 thing at a time and do not move on until we are both happy and consistent with it and he is looking at my swing every week and not allowing for bad habits to come threw (naturally my bad tendencies is over the top always fighting it and he said probably will for a while) also we do swing work every week but last 15 20 mins we will have a quick look at something specific that I feel is not good, could be putting or chipping maybe bunkers, he will quickly revisit that and see what piece I am missing correct it move on. I know this is long winded and like I said this is my first year of playing rounds and it has got me to shooting low 80s I could imagine if a player like you was doing this same thing the change would be amazing.

[@RobMcGarr]

Yeah there's a lot to be said for regular coaching. I made the most progress at the start when I was working with the pro at my club, probably because it was regular. Even outside official lessons he'd be able to help me for five minutes here and there.

[@bwstokie]

Today get the anxiety thing - I’m nowhere near your standard but I regularly play to 10ish on my own, as soon as I play with someone I don’t know i completely go to pieces. Suppose the only cure for me in all reality is repetition and play with as many strangers as possible. 100% go and see Marcus Bell at Zen worth every penny!

[@Edkemp76]

Great video Rob. Love them. I know exactly where your at as would millions of golfers. I’ve done the same as you, lessons from liam (brilliant), KZbin, local pro, etc. Currently I’ve found that the local pro (have to get one that suits you and your style) has been invaluable, as I could afford to have Liam on a monthly on call basis and face to face is always better I feel - or at least available. Recently I’ve had 3 lessons with the club pro (with have 3) and after the lesson was buzzin, go out( relaxed, eagle, birdies, etc). But come medal and a week or two off, could put, or drive etc. when I came in, he was supportive & just said what went wrong, why, etc and little got the feeling back for me within 5 mins in the shop. This type of availability and support is amazing when it’s not going quite right, whilst the transition is happening. Someone further away, albeit amazing, I feel is not as close to you but depends what you’re working on and what support you need. I hope that makes sense. It’s worked for me and people like Liam / Zen are amazing but it’s down to what support you need, when you need it and whether there’s a cost to it. Hope to catch up with you at some point maybe next year as this one is going to fast and we can chat the shit out of it on the course. 😂😉☺️ Looking forwards to the next video ☺️👏👏

[@RobMcGarr]

Definitely had similar experiences Ed. Be great to catch up soon fella! Stay well in the meantime 🙌

[@themalevolent01]

I would suggest “golf my way” by jack Nicklaus. Short read with great ideas about the game. It won’t fix everything but it gave me great swing thoughts around setup and execution

[@michaelfagan2630]

Great video, we all struggle with this fantastic game whatever our level is. Mentally it’s one of the hardest sports to conquer with some much time to think. I’m sure you will figure it out Rob you’re too good not too.

[@RobMcGarr]

Cheers buddy, all part of the fun of it!

[@Stephenpettitt198]

I only just watched this video and weirdly earlier today bought an audiobook called Zen golf - mastering the mental side of the game (don’t think it’s any relation to the zen golf you were talking about because the author is an American guy) I listened to a bit earlier on my lunchtime walk and I’m pretty certain it’s going to transform my game and be the best £6 I ever spent, got a comp on Sunday so will find out one way or another. Btw it looks like you’re crushing it from those clips so I wouldn’t worry too much about messing about with the swing, if you are going to go down that route then wait till the off season

[@RobMcGarr]

Zen Golf is one of the two best golf books I've ever read! I'm well overdue a second read!

[@Stephenpettitt198]

@@RobMcGarr get the audiobook so you can listen to it whilst doing other things and go “oh yeah, that’s a good point” and “yeah I really need to think more positive like this” and then not do those things but at least you haven’t had to bother reading

[@millerviz]

Rob, I've watched a lot of your videos and I really enjoy your self-effacing style of presenting but it occurred to me that a part of the reason you're not getting to scratch is that you don't believe in yourself. I get the sense that when you approach a shot you're prepared to be disappointed with the result rather than eager to make a great one. I recently watched an old video of yours where you played and beat a guy who was off scratch. He strutted around the course like he owned it while you made light of your weak play. And you beat him! This is perhaps obvious but I know that my outlook when I play varies a lot and I perform far better when I am anticipating good results rather than fearing bad ones. It's a constant struggle and one that I think almost means more than your actual skill level. Keep up the great videos and think of yourself as a killer on the golf course!

[@RobMcGarr]

It's a fair point mate. Food for thought for sure!

[@darrenpowell4234]

Believe you have answered you own question for me Rob, just keep putting yourself in testing mental situations and your technical performances will improve as you become more comfortable mentally. I go between Danny Maude/ Eric Cogorno & Pete Cowen, I also have all Liam Robinsons drills in my Keepers section that I go back to from time to time (one golf guru is never enough lol). Great video look forward to your next one 👍, keep knocking it forward in life & golf Rob 👍

[@florianz1715]

Rob, I really think you should give Adam Young’s stuff a try. His emphasis on skills (hitting the riht part of the face, hitting the ground in the right place, controlling the face angle) has made a huge difference for me in exactly the kinds of rounds that you have been having lately. The NLG program educates you on the “why”s of bad shots on a high level and if you do his practice drills you learn how to fix stuff on the course. And here is the one underrated thing, that I have noticed. Your swing will of course change by doing these things. But you’re not fixing your swing and hoping that it changes your ballflight. You are changing your ballflight and your swing makes the appropriate modifications.

[@RobMcGarr]

Thanks mate, I think you're right. Can't hurt, even if it just makes my practice sessions more useful. Ultimately, if I could have found a decent strike in those three rounds I'd have been a lot better off, regardless of how my swing looked!

[@collinmckenzie2306]

There are various drills to deal with pressure. I think mr. short game has a few that are brilliant. Whatever method you choose, stick with it for at least a month. That's what I have found; if I don't stick with it for at least a month then I don't really know if it worked. I would also choose someone local that you can find over a long drive. Unless you are really motivated to drive all the time.

[@pringlesmcpringles1342]

Great video Rob, very honest. I would go to someone local so you can get regular check ups to stop slipping back into bad habits. Don't know how up to date you are with Chasing Scratch Podcast you are, but I would def recommend Jon Shermans book the 4 foundations of golf. Eli and Mike did a recent ep with him and the his book is excellent. Would work great in tandem with lessons. Looking forward to seeing more of your story soon!!

[@richardadey6018]

Rob, I feel your pain mate, I have the same problems, the one thing I feel is, I don’t care how my swing looks as long as it works constantly, I do like your videos, the ups and downs of a game we can never perfect, for me, golf is about me feeling good with what I am doing and sticking to know what I am good at… keep swinging and if you need any mental training remember #mentalarmour

[@petel3366]

Watched to the end and you were disappointed with scoring level par. What if you’d nailed each shot but shot 2 over would you have been happier? Have a look for some the pros compilation of bad shots- top pros hitting stinkers! The show part of golf will bring you down, the scoring part of golf is where the bottom line sits. Your mate and your own video showed you that scratch golfing is not about scratch striking but scratch scoring. Learn to score Rob no matter how you swing. Keep ‘em coming. Come to Brockenhurst one day!

[@RobMcGarr]

Stupidly, yes, I probably would. Not if it was a round that counted though. I know, you're right. Pretty close to where my sister lives so might take you up on that!

[@musicmunky]

Was just wondering last night when we'd get the next McGarr video, then boom, here we go! Great content as always man, keep it up!

[@marksefton751]

In my opinion, there is usually a relatively straightforward explanation for our problems with strike that is more often than not evident to any teaching pro... The main problem is finding someone who can offer you a solution that works for you. I've had 3 teachers in the past three years, one online during the pandemic, and they all coincided in my main problem....However, only the last one has been able to give me the solution that works....I go back to him when I stray off track a bit and feel lost (every few months or so), and in a 30 min session he's got me back on the road again. I'm sure you know what you problem is and if you go to a teaching pro they will tell you more or less what you know again. So I think it's just trial and error until you find someone who will give you the best way to resolve it. You were striking the ball well after you saw Liam, but I'm not sure how feasible it is for you to work with him (although perhaps you can try his drills again).

[@RobMcGarr]

Watch this space!

[@marksefton751]

You can count on that.....Anything for a laugh😉

[@forewardeveryday]

Be patient. I think a visit to Zen would be awesome. I would if I could. Keep grinding. You are on the right path.

[@simonleach3812]

Level par through 5 holes when not hitting it well - this has got to be a positive! All you've suggested could work but golf is a journey with poor signposts and what works for one does not necessarily work for you. e.g. Jack Nicklaus hardly practised and Ben Hogen practised all waking hours! If you find the hen that lays the golden golf ball, let us know!

[@sarahpyett]

Same problem with my irons at the moment. New set of clubs and cut to 6.6 after 2 rounds with them 🙈 but iron shots not compressed and just not feeling sweet!

[@RobMcGarr]

Well they're obviously doing something right! 🙌

[@MrMrGagagagaa]

Local coach and practice short game more for when you aren’t swinging it well. I think we make the mistake of comparing ourselves to players who hit hundreds of balls a day when we are only trying to get the best out of ourselves. I found that a shorter swing and minimal movement helps a lot in terms of ball striking too, less can go wrong.

[@RobMcGarr]

One of my mates (Colt, he's been on the channel a few times) has developed this really short, compact swing and is absolutely ripping it, handicap tumbling. Watching him I keep saying it looks like nothing could ever go wrong!.

[@MrMrGagagagaa]

@@RobMcGarr my brother is the exact same, very consistent and powerful, almost frustrating to watch. There’s so much information out there and it gets confusing. I actually find I get more power when I keep it short and compact, easier to shallow out prior to impact.

[@TPHartley999]

I feel your pain Rob. I went to see Marcus last year and although was interesting I didn’t really feel I left with a good plan of what I needed to do. Every few years I go back to the Manuel de la Torre stuff and always wonder why I stop doing it. Am back doing this now and it is really helping. He has passed away now but there is plenty of stuff on KZbin and he wrote a book. Check it out

[@marcrose9018]

Mate go to zen golf I've been Marcus is class

[@danielcarter5559]

John Bickerton at Minehead & West Somerset golf club might be worth a visit Rob! He’s an ex tour pro who has won some big events so obviously knows his golf but more importantly he is one of the nicest guys you could wish to meet! And it’s not too far from North Devon! Keep going mate, you’ll get there….

[@RobMcGarr]

Thanks for the recommendation! 🙌

[@alanrhind4960]

Hi Rob. New to your channel. Nice honest golf, feeling your pain and frustration. Can highly recommend a guy called Steve Johnson on KZbin called Eureka golf swing technique. Well worth considering.

[@matipenny]

you mentioned before that you are not openning enough at impact and don’t get compression. Thats something that George Gankas addresses in his lessons. May be you should give him a try. His drills made a difference in my swing. I keep my club head closed on the way back, I open a lot more at impact and I keep club face square to target for longer which means better face control and straighter shots. If I do all things he implies, the shots feel really great. I played for 20 years and the feeling is different, much better.

[@RobMcGarr]

I've watched a few of his videos before and struggle to keep up!

[@sonny2480]

Four Foundations of Golf is a great book by Jon Sherman, its pretty much an encyclopedia of how to practice, play, build a swing the right way etc. Great book.

[@RobMcGarr]

It's on my list!

[@joedavey84]

As hokey as it sounds, i think your only real issue is just a negative outlook. It doesn’t need to be relentlessly positive, but i think having the confidence that you can get through a day where your swing just isn’t there and still score well is key for you to get to scratch. In my opinion the only think holding you back is just thinking you’re not good enough. Any kind of doubt in your game is an absolute card wrecker. It sounds so cliche’ but if you go out really knowing you’re going to play well you will. Easier said than done but i don’t think more lessons or gurus will help you other than just building your confidence.

[@johncallaghan1396]

Struggling with my irons, definitely relatable great video made me laugh a few times cheers

[@algernonwolfwhistle6351]

Maybe a good idea to play a round now and then with someone who is knowledgeable and interested in making progress with their game too. When you have a sudden set back it's normally a problem with the fundamentals, GASP. If you have someone who can check your alignment on the course, for example, then you can either find the problem or eliminate a probable cause for the error.

[@RobMcGarr]

Yeah I could definitely do with playing with good players regularly.

[@carsonriches4790]

Use either saguto golf or Steve Johnston eureka golf swing system

[@Alan_Edwards]

I don't know mate but it just seems to me there is a disconnect between how well you are golfing and what you want to get from golf. If it's just golfing well and playing with friends on occasion and having fun, then you are in great shape. Just play and enjoy each round for what it is. I doubt you will get worse over time if you play often enough. On the other hand, if shooting par is not enough, then yeah you need a plan for sure. Step one is to decide what the end game looks like. Either way I hope you keep filming and best of luck to you brother....whatever you decide to do.

[@pumaedition]

I had a good suggestion for a coach in Norfolk, but not North Devon!

[@RobMcGarr]

I'd found one I was going to contact up there, wonder if it's the same guy (not that it matters much now anyway)!

[@chrisbollongino3670]

ZEN Golf. 100%. It changed my view on the golf swing completely..! Playing of 6.

[@StarryCrypto]

Great video & exactly what a lot of us struggle with.

[@ping7979]

Tempo looks great. First thing i noticed before you mentioned it.

[@robynhopkyns6150]

Liam Robinson catch up would be good

[@craighuddy5351]

Rob read Adams book the Practice manual, if you do you’ll probably go with Adam for lessons, also check the sweet spot podcast Adam does with John Sherman

[@Elbrieno]

Cracking content again Rob. Agree with Craig here. The sweet spot with Adam Young and Jon Sherman is well worth a listen if you haven’t already. Jon Sherman’s new book on Amazon has also just been released and is a great perspective on how to get to scratch from a non pro who has done it

[@pardiedanser]

these things... dst 8 iron, no more swing videos, you can play - dst will teach you to compress the ball properly. if only i could give one to 13 year old me 🙌 won't happen over night, but it really has helped me develop a powerful straight ball strike

[@howtodoathingnow]

Ryan Fricker at Bovey Castle has done good work with James Wiltshire

[@johnsaundersorsam]

nice one again love the honesty, have a listen to kathyhartwood re the mental side, sometimes best result for me is when I just relax and just swing the club (don't hit the ball) because more often than not I'm shite BUT Kathy says keep telling myself I'm shite won't help (not sponsored I promise) I also like Danny's approach

[@JohnnyL22420]

Another banger thanks Rob hang in there when you stop caring it gets real easy

[@martinsmith3192]

Never mind the golf how's the running going?

[@RobMcGarr]

Good mate, thanks! Did 21 miles on Saturday and then went to a wedding so that was a pretty tiring day. Less than a month to go now!

[@MrSteveadams69]

ZEN Golf have got me shaping the ball 👍🏻👍🏻

[@kp6007]

Sounds exactly the same as what I suffer with. At the practice range or when I’m out in my own, I honestly feel like a pro sometimes (I’m obviously nothing if the sort but that’s how I feel), then I get on the course with mates and it all goes to pot! Definitely a mental thing. If you suss it, please let me know mate. Good luck.

[@RobMcGarr]

Haha, I will do for sure! I've got some good books lined up to read so hoping to find some answers...

[@brianmurray4199]

It's like there are really golf gods. As soon as you tell your mates you've been playing well, all of a sudden you can't make contact with the ball. Don't you know the first sign of a bad round. If your hitting the ball right before the round, the round is done😂

[@MegaBensley]

Liam Robinson all the way I reckon, I like his simple drills with no balls, so no worries about flight or shape, just gri Ding in correct movements and sequences. For me that's the answer, but more important is the mental stuff, it's way more important. Hopefully you've still got my email from way back when, if so send me a message as I have an idea about the old noggin :)

[@RobMcGarr]

Send it over pal - [e-mail]

[@ocat1979]

Have checked out any of Bradley Hughes stuff?. He has an excellent set of drills that focus on keeping pressure on the shaft into and beyond impact using a hitters technique. He completely transformed my game, left side of the course no longer exists

[@rickpurse6922]

Hey Rob - did you go the Adam Young Strike Plan route? Curious to know your thoughts?

[@paulfreeman5340]

Loved the Tony Soprano verdict

[@industrialpalletworx3548]

See your local pro or the fellow you saw before that helped. Try to make it there more consistently, not once and done. Give them the time to help you, but make sure they are a proper fit. I spoke to a coach a bit ago gave him my back story of how I got to where I was at the time. He laughed at my early goals. Fortunately I knew then and there I don't want to give this chap any of my hard earned money, no matter how good he is. Your coach needs to believe in you and what you want to do. If they don't believe move along they aren't right for you.

[@petekenny3774]

Your iron strike description sounds like mine weak high flippy lack of distance very frustrating ....I think the zen guys have an interesting method but don't think it's something that works for all people and it ain't cheap...the YT teaching ain't worth it too much stuff going on ...I would find a local pro and work with him/her tbh ...swing changes can take years to embed unfortunately and if your not practicing and playing then it's even harder ...try and enjoy it when you play I know it's hard when your playing poor but this ain't our jobs and I don't have the time to practice and play ...Great your back rob keep at it

[@ashkanarjangfar7542]

Rob ive been losing my hair for the past few years i was 22 when i noticed my hairline was receding and now i am 24 do you recommend i do something about it? What can i do about my hair loss? Also do girls not like guys that are losing their hair? If you want a girl to like you is having hair important?

[@simonwilson4240]

I'm of 4 it's not the swing all my mistakes are mental not lining myself up taking enough time etc negative thoughts trying to just do basics not think score all time think positive we would all love great looking swing check Rafa Nadal off scratch swing looks like beginner

[@RobMcGarr]

I guess hand-eye coordination counts for a lot!

[@simonwilson4240]

@@RobMcGarr yes great attitude and positive thinking

[@nolzayyy]

Great vid mate

[@kp6007]

Mate, this is massively unlikely, but I’m playing at Lyme Regis golf club next week if you’re about and fancy a round? Not sure how close that is to you and whether you’re free but just thought I’d ask.

[@RobMcGarr]

Couple of hours from me bud and my dogsitter is on holiday this week but appreciate the thought. Enjoy!

[@svenv4122]

F-ing golf!! One minute your playing great and you think how low can I go. The next week it's the captains day and shanks are the order of the day! As Ian brown says it's F.E.A.R. not the same as being attacked by a tiger but the fear of wanting something. Over thinking. I've no answer to this but an ability to have a completely clear mind would help many golfers.

[@RobMcGarr]

100% fella. Now to find that clear mind without needing 37 more thoughts to get there!

[@lilvfr400boy]

I recently played 12 holes with my instructor - usually I make a half decent round with very few dramas for my level of skill. I expect to loose a couple of balls on a round but generally that’s from a bad bounce into something but I did aweful with him watching my every move. Mark crossfield is near you isn’t he ? Can’t you go to him and get a real insight into your weight transfer etc

[@colinwhite2724]

All been there, mate. It’s a journey.

[@cscoetzee]

Shot 79, 6 weeks ago before going away on holiday, and felt bad about it. Today I shot 94. Looking for the razor blades. Let me know when you found the secret.

[@mikevivian9383]

Hi Rob, Eric Cogorno is very good for online coaching his KZbin stuff is excellent.

[@alcw625]

Eric has a huge backlog of content in great detail on every body part in swing….many guest coaches and lessons with amateur…..if you want technical, he’s your man….

[@hazmat8770]

Welcome back to the merry go round

[@Melted_Butter]

Interesting you talked about the mental side of the game but all your suggestions were swing based.

[@akselnielsen4231]

A 88 is really not that bad after that long of a break I play between 3 and 4 atm, been down to 2.8 as my all time lowest I still shoot 85+ from time to time, when my tempo gets out of wack, and i start to get frustrated, and start to hit it harder and harder, and it only gets worse and worse I started playing when i was 31 and im 37 now I think ill struggle with swingthoughts etc for the rest of my golf life. I play with better players at the club all the time, and the ones that have played since they where young, can roll out of the car and shoot level par or under without breaking a sweat I still hope one day to get to solid handicap 2 and play to it often, but its hard, when you start later in life Dont think ill ever be scracth, unless i start to practice ALOT. I play 2-3 times a week, and dont practice much. I do try and be at the range 30-45 mins before for a good varm up though. That has improved my rounds the most ( I guess you can say thats practice, but i never really go out and only just pratice )

[@dagobertkrikelin1587]

Don't worry about it. Your hair looks great!

[@liamdyer9913]

What made you move to RND ?

[@RobMcGarr]

From Royal Norwich you mean?

[@workingmansgolf2246]

Hey man., I have been on the bubble for 20 years. 98 to 06 I bounced between 1 and 4. Now I have more time again I'm back on the chase. Check this out " amateur golf dilemma " you tube. Open up too it. I have never hit the ball so straight. The misses are beautiful. If it's not for you. I would hang with Liam as much as possible.

[@philbeele8504]

Great vid I’m exactly the same

[@ianparker3014]

love to see you get some lessons with Danny Maude, think he would sort you out. not sure if that's gonna help with the nerves though. maybe get a mate out with you while you're recording, have a laugh, stop the pressure building.

[@callumararity7857]

Dan henrikson is about there I’m Sure he is decent

[@jacknotton5820]

Julian Mellor.