Another parallel challenge this summer - 5/2/2008
So my other goal this summer, besides devoting large amounts of time to slalom skiing and getting into 34MPH is getting better at golf. I've been dabbling in golf since I was probably 12, playing a round or two per year with my Dad from time to time. Never really got into it on my own until last year, when I started hitting the ball somewhat consistently and finally "got the bug" for this game. I've never really given much time to improving my game, and I usually hack through the course in the low 100's. I probably played more golf last year than I have cumulatively in my entire life.
This year, I thought I'd start the season right with a lesson. I had no idea what to expect but I was absolutely blown away by what happened. The pro I worked with was amazing and the video equipment he used to analyze my swing was even more amazing. In about 40 minutes, he had corrected a massive flaw in my swing (can you guess what it was? See the picture above- one side is old Joel, one side is new Joel). His video equipment and software allowed him to show me side-by-side with Tiger Woods, sync up our golf swings, and show the obvious differences between them. I was able to visually see exactly what he was talking about and, further, I could take the CD home with me to review the entire session as many times as I needed to. Simply amazing.
Of course, I immediately started thinking about slalom training, and how this sort of video analysis software might help slalom students. It probably could, and probably has. The main difference I found is that with golf, a coach can simply walk up to you mid swing and pose your entire body so you can FEEL the position that you need to be in. This sort of hands-on training is much harder to execute at 34 MPH behind the boat as you're crossing the wake! Could you imagine a coach skiing behind you and trying to modify your stance behind the boat? That sort of coaching would probably result in some spectacular crashes!
This golf lesson really illustrated for me how crucial it is to get a lesson from a pro in whatever you are trying to accomplish in a sport. How many greens fees and ski rides would I have blown throughout my life had I not gotten all of the professional instruction that I've had? How many friends do you know who hack their way through the course (golf or slalom) but have never gotten a lesson?
Comments:
MiracleDriver, 5/2/2008: wow! what a difference! personally I don't have time to focus on another summer activity; skiing is it for now, but I'd love to "get" golf too!! good formScarletArrow, 5/3/2008: skiing and golf - you picked two addictive and expensive sports - your wife really must love you! :-)
ScarletArrow, 5/3/2008: From what I understand, H2Oz training center is now using side-by-side video too.
Laz, 5/4/2008: You are lucky. I had to give up golf when the kids came. Miracle. My boat is docked at Kon Tiki. The course is ready. Now I have to find a weekend. I would like to try in two three or four weeks, depending on the weather. Let me know if you are interested. Laz
uk exile, 5/4/2008: Some coaches use the water proof one way headsets. Not exactly hands on but as close as skiers get at the moment.
MS, 5/7/2008: If you ski daily like I do, your arms and shoulders are way to sore to be any good at golf. To be good at golf, I would have to quit skiing.
Chef23, 5/8/2008: These are my two vices as well. If I ski 3 days a week or so once I get in shape for the summer I can ski and play golf. My HC is 1 right now and I run into 32 off at 34 mph. It is tough finding time for both but I love both activities and enjoy sharing them with my kids.
Terry, 5/10/2008: I'm not old enough to play golf. When I can't ski I'll take up golf.