Improving Your Mental Game

This post provides supplementary material to the 30 day quick start disc golf plan. This topic is ll about the often overlooked side of the game, your mental prowess.

But how can throwing a plastic disc around a park be good for your  mental and physical health? Well, there are some serious benefits to playing disc golf that go beyond just having fun.

First off, let’s talk about the physical fitness aspect. Sure, you might not be running a marathon or deadlifting a car, but disc golf still gets your blood pumping. You’re walking around the course, carrying your bag of discs, and constantly throwing and retrieving them. That’s cardio, baby! Plus, you’re working your arm muscles and your core with every throw. You might not see huge gains in your biceps or abs, but you’ll definitely notice that you can throw a golf disc farther and more accurately than before.

And let’s not forget the mental health benefits of disc golf. There’s something about being out in nature, surrounded by trees and fresh air, that just makes you feel good. It’s like your brain is getting a spa day. Plus, the act of throwing a frisbee can be meditative in a way. You’re focused on your form, your aim, and your breath, which can be a great way to clear your mind and de-stress.

Disc golf is also a great way to socialize and meet new people. Unlike other sports where you might be competing directly against someone, disc golf is more of a chill, cooperative vibe. You’re all just trying to have a good time and get your frisbees in the basket. That means there’s plenty of opportunities to chat with other players, learn some new techniques, or just shoot the breeze. Who knows, maybe you’ll even make some new friends on the course.

The mental aspect of the game has a massive impact on how far you can go with the sport. Here are some tips to help you get stronger in this often overlooked area.

Visualize Success

Visualize yourself executing successful shots and playing at your best. This helps to build confidence and can also improve your muscle memory.

Focus on the Present

Focus on the current shot you’re taking and don’t let previous shots or future holes distract you. Stay in the present moment and focus on what you need to do to make the shot successful.

Manage Your Emotions

Disc golf can be an emotional game, and it’s important to manage your emotions to perform at your best. Stay calm and focused, even when you make mistakes or miss shots.

Set Goals

Set achievable goals for yourself and focus on them during your rounds. This will help you stay motivated and give you a sense of purpose during your games.

Develop a Routine

Develop a pre-shot routine that you follow before every throw. This routine can help you focus and get in the right mindset for each shot.

Positive Self-Talk

Use positive self-talk to build confidence and stay focused. Remind yourself of your strengths and capabilities, and speak to yourself in a positive and encouraging way.

Controlled Breathing

Pay attention to your breathing and take slow, deep breaths to calm your nerves and stay present in the moment.

Let Go of Mistakes

Don’t dwell on mistakes or missed shots. Instead, focus on what you can do differently next time and move on to the next shot.

Stay Relaxed

Try to stay relaxed and loose on the course. Tension and tightness can negatively affect your performance, so focus on staying relaxed and limber.

Stay Focused on Your Process

Stay focused on your process and don’t get caught up in your score or what your opponents are doing. Focus on the shot in front of you and execute your plan to the best of your ability.

Use Positive Imagery

Use positive imagery to help stay focused and confident. Imagine yourself making successful shots, sinking putts, and playing at your best.

Overall, mental focus is key to success in disc golf, and practicing these techniques can help you develop your mental game and perform at your best on the course.

 

Shot-by-Shot Focus Challenge

This drill is designed to help you improve your mental focus and concentration on the course.

  1. Choose a familiar course and play a round of disc golf by yourself, focusing on one shot at a time.
  2. Before each shot, take a few deep breaths and clear your mind of distractions.
  3. Focus solely on the shot you are about to take. Consider the distance, terrain, wind, and any obstacles in your way.
  4. Develop a pre-shot routine, such as a practice swing or a specific breathing pattern, to help you stay focused and in the moment.
  5. Throw your shot to the best of your ability.
  6. After each shot, evaluate your performance and identify any distractions that may have affected your concentration. Note any areas where you need to improve your focus or execution.
  7. Repeat this process for the rest of the round, focusing on one shot at a time and staying in the present moment.

This drill can be done during practice rounds or actual rounds, and it can be modified to focus on specific shots or areas where you need to improve your mental focus. By practicing this drill regularly, you can improve your concentration and execution on the course, leading to better results and a more enjoyable playing experience.

 

Related Content

How To Get A Career In Disc Golf

How To Make Your Discs Fly Straight – 10 Reasons You’re Getting It Wrong

L.E.D Golf Discs

 

 

Seen these?

Westside Discs Empire Disc Golf Backpack Review

How To Pick The Perfect Disc Golf Shoes For You