The legendary Ben Hogan once said that "Golf is 20 per cent physical and 80 per cent mental." There aren't many of us out there that would argue with his point.

When preparing to hit a golf shot there are certain things that must be accomplished prior to your shot in order to swing your best. Most PGA Tour players have a pre-shot routine that they follow religiously in order to prepare their mind and body to swing the golf club.

There are four components that I think are critical to any pre-shot routine:

1) Commit to a target

2) Shut off all critical and mechanical thoughts

3) Feel confident over the ball

4) Use a trigger to initiate the swing

Before hitting any golf shot you must ask yourself where you are going. Assess the hazard areas and wind, and pick a target that you will aim for. Be precise and try to make the target as small as possible. You will finish by aligning yourself to the proper target.

In the next step you must get rid of any negative thoughts and technical thoughts. When you are on the course you need to allow yourself to just play the game and trust yourself.

Confidence is the third key; it's mind over matter. You have made your decisions, now you just have to execute the shot. Think of a time you have successfully hit a similar shot. Stay positive!

Lastly, use a trigger to initiate the swing. A trigger will tell your brain that you are ready to make a swing. It also helps put you in a good rhythm. Waggling the club, taking a deep breath, and tapping your feet before you swing are all good examples.

As long as your routine incorporates these four components then you will be able to play your best golf.

Alf Callowhill is a Class "A" CPGA Professional and Head Coach of the McMaster University Golf Team. Contact at alf_callowhill@hotmail.com.