Jimmy Ballard, a professional golf instructor and author of the 1981 book "How to Perfect Your Golf Swing," owns and operates Jimmy Ballard Golf School at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Fla. In fact, one of Ballard's instruction tips propelled Golf Digest to name him one of America's 50 Greatest Teachers of 2009. Ballard claims that his school will help you get rid of your bad golf swing and help you learn how to practice to become a consistent, connected golfer, according to the company's website.
One-On-One Instruction
Ballard offers personal training classes that consist of one four-hour session that you custom design to match your current skill level. During your meeting, Ballard also permits you to ask any questions you have regarding the fundamentals of golf or specific challenges you might have with your golf swing. You must pay a deposit in advance to secure a personal training day with Ballard, according to the company's website.
Workshops
Ballard, along with additional members of the Ocean Reef Club staff, offer several three-day group workshops throughout the year. The workshops include a teacher-studio ratio of four to one. During the workshop, Ballard and his staff teach you putting, short game and full-swing woods and irons techniques. The workshops also include on-course instruction that is designed for players of all skill levels. Range and greens fees are included in the price of the classes, notes the website.
Assistant-Conducted Lessons
Ballard's assistants conduct hourly lessons and 10-hour workshops by appointment in the Fort Lauderdale, Fla., area. However, you must call the school to verify availability for lessons and workshops throughout the year, says the company's website.
Distance Learning
If you cannot travel to Florida to personally meet with Ballard or one of his staff members, you can film your golf swing and send it to Ballard for a distance video analysis of your technique. For a front-swing analysis, you must aim your camera directly onto your belt buckle, so Ballard can clearly see the ball and its line of flight. Then, you must turn around and aim the camera at the center of your back, so Ballard can critique your swing from behind, also. Ballard accepts CD, DVD or miniature DVD copies for distance video analysis.
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