Low back pain (LBP) is the most common injury in golf, affecting beginners, recreational players, and elite professionals alike. Despite being considered a low-impact sport, the repetitive and highly technical nature of the golf swing places significant stress on the lumbar spine. This is something I encounter regularly in my work at MLaB Golf . I’m Michael LaBella, a performance golf coach based at Butler Country Club , with more than 15 years of experience helping golfers a

Golf is often perceived as a low-impact, relaxing sport. However, many players experience persistent back pain. Whether amateur or elite, spinal discomfort has become one of the most common issues in golf, often rooted in how the swing is taught and executed. I’m Michael LaBella, a performance golf coach at MLaB Golf based at Butler Country Club . Over the years, I’ve seen this pattern consistently. Players come in frustrated, dealing with stiffness, recurring injuries, or a

Golf instruction is a structured long-term learning process that combines technical knowledge, strategic awareness, and consistent practice habits. While many people associate golf coaching with correcting swings, the role of a golf coach is broader. Coaches help players increase their Golf IQ through proper course management and strategic situational thinking, increase skill over time, and assist in the development of practicing with intent. Golf is a sport where learning oc

For junior golfers, learning how often to practice, and practicing with intent, can be just as important as learning the mechanics of the swing. Parents and young players often ask how often juniors should practice to improve their skills while still maintaining balance in school, other activities, and personal growth. Junior golf lessons often address this question by focusing on age-appropriate training schedules and development stages. Practice routines that work for teena

Golf is a sport where performance is shaped as much by the mind as by mechanics. Unlike many games that rely on speed or physical dominance, golf constantly places players in situations where patience, decision-making, and emotional control determine success. A well-struck shot under no stress is very different from executing the same swing with a scorecard, competition, and expectations on the line. This is why handling pressure is not an optional skill for serious golfers;

Golf is a game that rewards patience, structure, and thoughtful development more than almost any other sport. A child who steps onto a driving range for the first time is not simply learning how to hit a ball. They are beginning a long process that can shape their athletic habits, mental discipline, and approach to competition for years to come. As a coach who works daily with developing players at different stages of their journey, I focus on guiding juniors through structur

Starting to play golf for the first time without any guidance can feel confusing. New golfers are often introduced to a wide range of advice, opinions, and instructional content before they ever take a lesson. While the information is quite essential, it can also create confusion about where to begin and what actually matters early in the learning process. Understanding how golf lessons work and what their purpose is can help beginners approach the game with clarity and reali

Improving golf skill and a golf swing is a process that requires a proper understanding of human body movement, patience, and the ability to evaluate the game as a whole. When the performance of a golfer stalls, many of them start searching for quick answers. They often rely on quick tips, videos, or swing ideas that may or may not apply to their individual needs. While general information can be helpful sometimes, for lasting improvement, it is essential to relearn the basic

The dream of playing college golf inspires thousands of junior golfers each year, but earning a roster spot requires more than talent and a good swing. Coaches look for players who communicate well, present themselves professionally, and show that they are ready for the demands of collegiate athletics. Understanding how to navigate the recruiting process step by step can make all the difference. I am Michael LaBella, a performance golf coach at MLaB Golf, located at Butler Co

Golfers spend countless hours refining their swing, honing their short game, and working through drills. While focusing mainly on practical skills, they often overlook developing their mental skills. Your mindset shapes your performance, especially in competition, where tension, expectation, and pressure can quietly influence every shot. Understanding how to prepare mentally is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward becoming a confident competitor. At MLaB Golf ,

Golf is a sport that helps in building physical skills, along with shaping the character of a player. It helps in building discipline, patience, and competitive spirit. For young athletes, golf helps to develop these traits early, helping them on and off the course.   When I was growing up college recruiting was something to think about during junior or senior year. However, as things have evolved college golf has become much more competitive, and waiting too long may result

Every successful golfer or athlete in any other sport was once a dreamer who wanted to make it big someday. With years of patience, resilience, practice and hard work, a motivated junior golfer can accomplish anything. Golf requires focus, mental fortitude, and patience. I am Michael LaBella, a performance golf coach at Butler Country Club . For over a decade, I have been coaching and guiding junior golfers along to achieve their dreams. Over the years of coaching junior gol

For young players, golf teaches etiquette, life lessons, and rewards us for the work we put in. However, to master the game, professional guidance and continuous practice with intention is essential. I am Michael LaBella , an expert golf coach with 17 years of experience coaching junior golfers to reach their goals. My keys  to successful  junior golf instruction include making it fun, getting on the course, improving skills first, mental game training, and developing friend

It is the dream of many junior golfers to play at the collegiate level. Preparation starts long before entering college; It involves years of practice, planning, and learning to get your junior golfer ready for college-level tournaments. If you are looking for more information on how to best prepare your child for success, then don’t worry, I am here to help. I am Michael LaBella , an expert golf coach at MLaB Golf, located at Butler Country Club . I have successfully coached

Golf is a game of precision, rhythm, and strategy, where true power comes from effortless motion and efficiency within our swing. More...

Golf is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Golfers of all levels are obsessed with their mechanics and making sure they are...

Insights from Michael LaBella, Certified Golf Coach at MLab Golf, Butler Country Club A powerful, consistent golf swing doesn’t come from...

Improving your golf game is mainly about practicing smarter. It’s about training your mind and body to work together, focusing on quality...

If you're committed to improving your game, you're already ahead. And if you’re struggling with consistency, like slicing, pushing, or...

Learning golf is exciting, but it comes with its share of challenges. As a beginner, focus on making clean contact, finding rhythm, and...