The Four Foundations of Golf: How to Build a Game That Lasts a Lifetime by Jon Sherman - A Comprehensive Review
- Stephane Benoist
- Jun 20
- 6 min read
Golf is a game of patience, precision, and personal growth. Unlike other sports that may rely on innate athleticism or explosive bursts of energy, golf is a game that demands mental fortitude, a deep understanding of technique, and a commitment to constant improvement. For those who are passionate about the game or are looking to deepen their skills, Jon Sherman’s The Four Foundations of Golf: How to Build a Game That Lasts a Lifetime offers a roadmap to achieving sustainable success in golf, focusing on the long-term development of a golfer's technique, mindset, and overall approach to the game.
Published in 2020, Sherman’s book addresses a common frustration in the golfing community: the inability of many golfers to sustain consistent improvement. Over the years, Sherman, a PGA professional and long-time golf instructor, has observed that while many golfers improve over short periods, they often plateau or regress, unable to build on their successes. The Four Foundations of Golf is Sherman’s answer to this challenge. It outlines the four core pillars that he believes are essential for developing a game that will last a lifetime.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into Sherman’s methodology, exploring each of the four foundations in detail and examining how they interrelate to form a comprehensive approach to long-term success in golf.
1. The Swing
At the heart of any golfer’s game lies the swing—the physical act of striking the ball. Golfers, especially beginners, are often obsessed with the idea of perfecting the swing. It’s understandable, as a great swing often translates to better performance on the course. However, Sherman argues that focusing solely on perfecting technique can lead to frustration and inconsistency. He encourages golfers to think of the swing as a fluid, dynamic motion rather than a static position.
Sherman stresses that the swing is not a one-size-fits-all concept. He emphasizes that each golfer’s swing should be tailored to their own body mechanics, strength, and athletic ability. Rather than trying to replicate the swing of the pros, Sherman advocates for finding a swing that works for the individual. This personalized approach takes into account the natural movements of the body, and when executed correctly, it allows for a repeatable swing that can be maintained for years.
To build a sustainable game, Sherman suggests focusing on key principles like balance, rhythm, and consistency, rather than obsessing over perfecting individual elements of the swing. He breaks down these principles into manageable pieces, offering golfers a clear framework for improving their swing over time. For example, a strong base and proper weight distribution are crucial for producing a consistent shot, and paying attention to these details can be more beneficial than constantly trying to perfect a complicated set of mechanics.
Sherman also addresses the mental aspect of the swing, reminding golfers that it’s not enough to simply know the correct techniques. Confidence, focus, and trust in the swing are integral to achieving lasting success. A golfer must develop a mindset that allows them to trust their muscle memory and not overthink the mechanics in the heat of competition.
2. Short Game
The second foundation in Sherman’s framework is the short game. While the long game often receives more attention, especially among amateur golfers, the short game is where many rounds of golf are won or lost. Sherman argues that developing a solid short game is essential to building a game that lasts a lifetime, and it’s an area where many golfers tend to neglect.
The short game encompasses a variety of skills, including chipping, pitching, putting, and bunker play. These skills, while often overlooked, are what can make the difference between an average round and a great round. Sherman dedicates a significant portion of his book to improving the short game, emphasizing its importance in lowering scores and increasing confidence on the course.
A key point Sherman makes is that the short game requires a different mindset and skill set than the full swing. It is more about touch, feel, and finesse. To master the short game, a golfer must develop a sense of creativity and adaptability, since each shot requires a unique approach. This might mean using different clubs, adjusting the grip, or altering the stance to accommodate the lies and challenges presented by the course.
Sherman advocates for regular practice of short game skills, especially when it comes to putting. Putting is often the most neglected aspect of a golfer’s game, but it is also the area where the most strokes can be saved. By dedicating time to improving putting technique and understanding the nuances of reading greens, golfers can lower their scores significantly.
3. Mental Game
Golf is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. The mental foundation is perhaps the most difficult for many golfers to master. Sherman emphasizes that the ability to maintain focus, stay positive, and approach the game with a clear and calm mindset can be the difference between a successful and frustrating round.
In The Four Foundations of Golf, Sherman offers practical strategies for developing a strong mental game. He discusses techniques for managing course anxiety, overcoming negative thoughts, and cultivating a mindset of resilience. Golfers who can stay mentally strong in the face of challenges are more likely to maintain their performance even when things aren’t going their way.
Sherman introduces the concept of “controlling the controllables.” This mindset encourages golfers to focus on the aspects of the game they can control, such as their preparation, attitude, and behavior, rather than worrying about external factors like the weather or the outcome of a specific shot. By letting go of the things they can’t control, golfers can reduce stress and improve their decision-making on the course.
In addition to focus and mental toughness, Sherman also highlights the importance of visualization and self-talk. These techniques help golfers stay calm and committed to their game plan. Visualization allows golfers to mentally rehearse shots before they take them, while positive self-talk can help boost confidence and reduce performance anxiety.
4. Course Management
The fourth and final foundation that Sherman outlines is course management. Many golfers are familiar with the idea of course strategy but fail to apply it effectively during their rounds. Course management is about making smart decisions, being patient, and understanding the nuances of each hole and the course as a whole.
Sherman teaches golfers to think strategically about each shot, considering the layout of the course, the weather conditions, and their own abilities. He advocates for a conservative approach, recommending that golfers avoid unnecessary risks and instead focus on playing to their strengths. For example, it might be wiser to lay up on a par 5 rather than going for the green with a risky shot. In this way, course management is about managing risk and playing a game that fits within one’s skill set.
Sherman stresses that course management is a lifelong skill that can be refined over time. With experience, golfers learn how to read the course and adjust their strategies based on their current form. He offers practical tips for improving course management, such as reading the wind, paying attention to yardage, and making smart club selections. These are not glamorous aspects of the game, but they can lead to more consistent results and better overall performance.
Building a Game That Lasts a Lifetime
What makes The Four Foundations of Golf such an invaluable resource is Sherman’s ability to balance technical advice with the broader principles that make the game enjoyable and sustainable. He encourages golfers to view their journey as a long-term process of growth, rather than a quick fix or series of isolated victories. The book is not just for those seeking immediate results; it’s for golfers who want to build a strong foundation that will last throughout their careers.
Sherman’s holistic approach takes into account the interconnectedness of the four foundations. A strong swing, refined short game, mental fortitude, and solid course management all work together to form a cohesive approach to the game. By focusing on these four pillars, golfers can continue to improve and enjoy the game for years to come.
Conclusion
Jon Sherman’s The Four Foundations of Golf is a comprehensive guide to building a sustainable and successful game. Through practical advice, real-world examples, and actionable strategies, Sherman provides golfers with a roadmap for improving their game and enjoying the process of lifelong learning. The book’s emphasis on personalization, patience, and long-term development sets it apart from other golf instruction manuals, making it an invaluable resource for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to lay the foundation for a solid game or a seasoned golfer aiming to refine your skills, Sherman’s insights are sure to help you build a game that will last a lifetime.
Header Photo Credit: Steve Momot https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-playing-golf-1409004/
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