SHORT GAME 20 MINUTES
Rafa says: “I will always play several different short-game shots. So I might start with some bump and runs and even putt from the fringe, especially when we are playing a links course. Then I will hit some lob shots and a variety of bunker shots – normal lies, downhill ones, plugged lies. It’s about refreshing your memory so when you get to the course, you are prepared and comfortable with the situation.”
Pro tip: Your short-game practice should have as much focus as your long-game work. Practice hitting into a ‘landing zone’. Lay down or place clubs on the green to mark out your landing spot. Then hit a series of chips, aiming to pitch each ball in this area. This works to move your focus from exactly what the club is doing through impact to your pitching spot. You can then take this visualisation to the course.