Target FocusPsychology & Mental HealthPre-shot routine All clubs Beginner / Intermediate ⏱ 8 min 🇫🇷 Video in French

Memorizing the Golf Target: Pierrick Kellner's Method

Name: Memorizing the Golf Target: Pierrick Kellner's Method
Uploaded: 2023-04-08T12:00:00+00:00
Duration: 8 min 23 s
Channel: Pierrick Kellner
Description: For Pierrick Kellner, these are the two most important elements of golf—and the ones least often discussed. The first—intentional targeting—directly influences the club's movement. The second—separating thought from action—prevents shots played in a state of doubt.

For Pierrick Kellner, these are the two most important elements of golf—and the ones least often discussed. The first—intentional targeting—directly influences the club's movement. The second—separating thought from action—prevents shots played in a state of doubt.

▶

Pierrick Kellner · his YouTube channelFree lesson selected by Fred P.

To be continued

5 minSame problemWhat to Think About During the Swing: Paul LambersensPaul Lambersens · Beginner / Intermediate 23 minNext Level UpHitter vs. Thrower Swing: The Real DifferencesJérémy Goergen · Intermediate 5 minNext Level UpPredicting Ball Contact: Edouard Montaz’s DrillEdouard Montaz · Intermediate / Expert

What the lesson shows

First point, according to Pierrick Kellner: the intended purpose. While preparing, he stares at the camera so intently that he is able to to say where it is without looking at it: The target is committed to memory. When it's time to hit the ball, he looks at it, but his focus remains on the target. This changes the swing: when you focus on the ball, you swing toward it with a very downward path, and a slice happens quickly. The movement is toward the target, through the ball. Quoting Percy Boomer, he points out that the perception of a smooth path toward the goal leads to a strong start.

Second point, inspired in particular by Bob Rotella: thought, then action. You think things through first (wind, club selection, type of shot, practice swings), then act with firm resolve, because the worst shots result from indecision. His rule: Never place the clubhead behind the ball until the shot has been confirmed. If any doubt arises as the ball approaches, you completely stop what you're doing and start the pre-shot routine over.

The Exercise, Step by Step

Enter your data: wind, distance, then choose a club and a shot.
Look at the target for a long time to memorize its position in space.
Take a few practice swings to get a feel for the shot you want, then confirm your choice.
Only then should you position the club behind the ball, look at the target once or twice, and take your shot.
During the swing, stay focused on the target and the path toward it.
If you have any doubts while standing over the ball, step out of your setup and start your pre-shot routine over.

Key Takeaways

Look at the target until you can locate it without looking at it.

When you swing, keep your eyes on the ball and your focus on the target.

The movement is toward the target, through the ball, not toward the ball.

If you focus too much on the ball, you end up leaning too far forward and hitting a slice.

We think things through beforehand, not in the moment: make a firm decision before taking action.

Do not place a club behind the ball until the shot has been confirmed.

Mistakes to Avoid

Focus on the ball and hit toward it rather than toward the target.
Keep the team's positions and key techniques in mind when playing.
To play even though you're still unsure about which move to make.
Place the clubhead behind the ball before confirming your choice.
Ignore a last-minute doubt instead of going back to your pre-shot routine.

Driving Range Mode

Keep it in plain sight, on the rug.

Before each shot, point at the target with your eyes closed
Test swings followed by explicit confirmation before taking position
Complete exit from the pre-shot routine at the slightest hesitation
Focus on the path toward the target rather than on the swing

Your Questions

What is "target intent" in golf?

For Pierrick Kellner, it's the relationship you have with the target: focusing on it to the point of memorizing its position in space and staying focused on it throughout the swing—even while keeping your eyes on the ball.

Why does focusing on the ball cause a slice?

If your focus is on the ball, you make a movement toward it—a very downward motion on full swings. The movement should be toward the target, through the ball.

What does “think first, then act” mean?

You analyze and choose your move before getting into position, then act without thinking during the execution. The worst moves often result from a decision that wasn't firm enough.

What should I do if I'm unsure about the ball?

Step completely away from your setup and return to your pre-shot routine: visualize the swing path, go through the motions without the club, check your form, and only then place the club behind the ball.

Learn More

All “Target Intention” videos →Find the lesson that's right for you All “Psychology & Mental Health” videos →Find the lesson that's right for you All “Pre-shot routine” videos →Find the lesson that's right for you Predicting Ball Contact: Edouard Montaz’s DrillContact is a prediction, not an action: lower your stance in stages (swing at the air, top, clean ball, ball-grass-ground) while aiming at the target. Hitter vs. Thrower Swing: The Real DifferencesCompare the swing of someone who hits the ball with someone who throws it to the target: intent changes the setup, the move, the release and the finish; change the start and the end. What to Think About During the Swing: Paul LambersensGood players all have different swings but the same intention: to hit the ball toward the target. Intention comes before movement. Pierrick KellnerAll of his lessons

Video posted on YouTube by its creator (Pierrick Kellner). Best Golf Tips selects and summarizes the best free lessons, without hosting them.