PHOTO PROVIDED Warming up is not a practice session

The longest walk in golf is from the practice tee to the first tee. A golfer can hit the golf ball great on the practice tee, and by the time he/she gets to the first tee, that great swing has vanished.

It can also work in the opposite: a golfer can strike the ball poorly on the practice tee and find their A-game on the first tee.

To correct this problem, try hitting 20 balls or fewer when warming up on the range prior to teeing off. Warming up before playing is much different than practicing.

The less you think about swing mechanics prior to teeing off, the better. Free up the mind and have fun. Practice after your round is over or the next day.

Try working on your tempo when warming up and don’t think so much.

Hit fewer balls prior to teeing off and you may enjoy this great game called golf even more.

Rick Musselman, a golf author and professional, owns Musselman’s Golf in Williamsport.