1. Nutrition

How you fuel up before a round of golf versus how a pro golfer does is likely apples to oranges.

Instead of scarfing down whatever’s available in your pantry, McCormick reminds amateur players to focus on things like “slow-burning carbs, protein, good fats and hydration.”

He also adds that you should consider what you eat for dinner the night before. This is similar to runners “carbo-loading” prior to a half- or full-marathon, making sure they have the right amount of energy for the next day.

2. Physical

This is non-golf movement stuff, primarily made up of mobility work, massage or foam rolling, or lifting weights for muscle activation.

McCormick adds that this is typically done for 15-30 minutes — so remember to keep it on the lighter side, which will help avoid soreness or discomfort that may occur while swinging the golf club.

3. Mental

McCormick states that pro players seek whatever their “ideal performance state” is.

But what does that mean? As the Top 100 Teacher says, it “could be a hype song, highlight reel, circular breathing, etc.”

By getting your mind in the right place during your golf warmup, you’ll become better focused, gain confidence and prepare your mind for any challenge ahead.

4. Tactical

Spending about 10-20 minutes studying factors like hole locations, weather and scoring, McCormick says the tactical preparation often starts the night before a round. This gives a pro player an understanding of exactly what they’ll encounter during a round, helping them develop and stick to a game plan before each round.

5. Golf warmup

McCormick says that some PGA and LPGA players will spend more time than others warming up, with sessions usually falling between 30-90 minutes.

The objective here is to focus on shot control throughout the entire bag, including putting start lines/touch, greenside contact, trajectory and distance control. It’s also important for the player to work on their ball-striking.

6. Go time

As McCormick highlights in his Instagram post, many pro players finish their warmup by simulating the first tee shot. He goes on to explain that they “use the same club, picking a target fairway and going through the routine” in order to execute. He adds: “If unsuccessful, do it till you are.”

By incorporating something similar before your next round, you can take that confidence with you to the first tee box.