
If you want to get the most out of your lessons with a swing coach, follow these 10 keys from Top 100 GOLF Instructor Kellie Stenzel.
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As a golf coach (and parent) I spend most of my day helping others. In my spare time, I like to play golf, but when I do, I notice that my game has some holes. Part of that is because I don’t spend enough time working on my game. It is also the result of inculcating bad habits after long layoffs.
My son is also a great golfer – and to make sure he doesn’t fall into the same bad habits I do, I make sure he gets regular instruction. I take it to Eric Dietrich’s new studio and GOLF Top 100 Teachers Stephen Sweeney for help with setting it up, and sometimes I take a lesson myself.
As we have continued to take lessons in the studio, I have compiled some tips for others to get the most out of their lessons. Check them out below.
1. Focus on your technique
When we first started taking lessons, my son mentioned that my stroke was looking a little off. I have been okay, but after getting help from some professional colleagues, I saw that he was right. I was doing some things that I would never suggest to my students, but I didn’t even realize it. The lesson reminded me that I really need to work on my technique.
2. Take advantage of technology
Technology has made it easier than ever to diagnose faults in the golf swing. Most trainers you visit will have some sort of technology there to help with this diagnosis, so take advantage of it. It takes the guesswork out of swing diagnosis and will make your progress much faster.
3. Don’t be shy
It’s natural to become self-aware during a lesson (I know I do from time to time), but don’t be embarrassed when you struggle. Teaching professionals are there to help you, not judge you. They want to see you succeed as much as you do – trust me.
4. Embrace training aids
Training tools are great tools to help you fix some bugs. After my last styling lesson, I went home and bought the same dressing mirror we used in the studio. If you get solid use from a training assistance during your learning, it may be worth investing in one of your own as well.

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5. Don’t be afraid of change
Good instructors will make changes to your movement that may feel uncomfortable, but don’t let that scare you. Making meaningful changes MUST feel uncomfortable. Trust that your teacher is making the changes for a reason and accept them.
6. Admit your mistakes
When I teach students, I expect them to hit a few bad shots during the lesson – and that’s totally okay! Mistakes are part of the learning process and are expected.
7. Shut down mentally
It is important as a student to be engaged during your studies. Give your instructor your undivided attention and shut down mentally for best results.
8. Take notes
Don’t be afraid to take notes during your lesson. Just like taking notes during a lecture at school, taking notes while learning the swing is a great refresher to refer back to later.
9. Go to practice
No swing coach will be able to completely fix your swing during a lesson. To get the most out of it, you need to take the things you’ve learned in class and practice them yourself.
10. Schedule more lessons
The players who get the most out of golf instruction are the ones who stick to it consistently. Keep coming back for more lessons and you’ll probably see more improvement than just going when you’re really struggling.
