When I first started playing golf, the most terrifying moment of my life was walking up to the first tee box. There is a starter watching you, the group behind you is staring, and you feel incredibly stiff.

To combat this anxiety, most beginners run to the driving range, pull out their driver, and frantically try to smash 30 golf balls as hard as they can. This is the absolute worst thing you can do. Not only will you exhaust yourself before the round even starts, but swinging a driver completely cold is a guaranteed recipe for severe lower back pain.

A pre-round warm-up is not a practice session. You only need 5 minutes to get loose and build confidence. Here is the exact 5-minute routine you should follow before every round.

1. What club should I hit first at the driving range?

You should always hit your shortest wedge (like a sand wedge or 56-degree wedge) first at the driving range.

Start with 5 to 10 gentle pitch shots with your wedge, aiming at targets only 50 yards away. The goal here is simply to feel the club hitting the turf, warm up your core muscles, and establish a smooth rhythm.

2. Should I try to fix my slice during the warm-up?

No. You should absolutely never attempt to fix your swing mechanics or change your grip during a pre-round warm-up.

You have to play with the swing you brought to the course that day. If you notice you are hitting a fade or a draw during your warm-up, simply accept it and plan to play that shot shape on the course. Trying to get technical and reconstruct your swing 5 minutes before your tee time will cause you to panic.

3. How do I transition to longer clubs?

After your wedges, you should transition to a mid-iron (like a 9-iron or 8-iron) and hit 5 smooth shots.

Notice the ball flight. Is it going higher or lower than usual? Get a feel for the wind. Once you feel comfortable with the mid-iron, pull out a longer club (like a 5-iron or a hybrid) and hit just two or three shots to feel the length of the shaft.

4. How should I end my golf warm-up?

You should end your warm-up by hitting the exact club you plan to use on the very first tee box of the golf course.

If the first hole is a long Par 4, pull out your driver. If it’s a tight Par 4, pull out your hybrid. Visualize the exact layout of the first hole in your mind. Go through your full pre-shot routine, take a deep breath, and hit the shot.

Once you hit a good one, stop immediately. Do not hit another ball. Keep that positive visual of a perfectly striped drive in your mind, pack up your bag, and confidently walk to the first tee. You are ready to play!