March 27 -- Whether it's the first tee jitters or finding a way through a series of missed shots, there are some secrets to handling the pressure.

The most successful players are the ones who can control their physical reactions. (photo: PGA of America)

Years ago, I remember a study that showed how college students reacted to pressure. The study group was as diverse as the student body, but none of the participants could have had experience playing golf.

It was a simple test that involved making three putts of increasing length. The reward was the most cherished thing a college student could imagine: CASH!

Each of the students was strapped to devices to measure heart rate, blood pressure, and perspiration. After each was prepared for the study, they entered the room with the putting green. Then, they were informed that the goal was to make each of the three putts, and a cash prize would be given for every putt made. As soon as every student heard the rules, all three of the physical monitors spiked. From what I recall, the three-foot putt paid $50, the six-foot putt paid $100, and the twelve-foot putt paid $1000. So, the pressure was great.

Some of the findings would be as expected. The students with the worst physical reactions made the fewest putts. The great athletes involved in other sports made more putts. But, the interesting thing about those that made more putts is that they were able to control their physical reaction to the situation. When each of the athletes was given the rules, their physical reactions were the same as all the other students. But, when it came time to perform, the athletes could lower their blood pressure and heart rate.

How many times have you heard someone say, "take a deep breath"? In this case, it was this ridiculously simple fact that made the difference. When your heart beat can be heard by everyone in the room, your blood pressure spikes, and perspiration starts beading on your forehead, it might be somewhat distracting when trying to make a putt. But taking a deep breath can help you to relax, when the pressure mounts.

Not all distractions are bad. A golfer that has a precise routine can create a much needed distraction. Having a precise routine is something that can distract the conscious mind. When the conscious mind has a series of tasks to do and an order in which they must occur, it can distract you from the water hazard, the o.b. stakes, or a bunker. There are many things that could be included in a good address routine: finding an intermediate target, the placement of your feet in relation to the target line, the placement of your hands on the club, the alignment of the clubface to the target line, or the path on which you want to swing the club. There are players that choose to swing as if on auto-pilot, as soon as the address routine is complete. And, there are those that choose to have a single swing thought, in order to occupy their thoughts.

Understand that everyone is different, and that each player should find an address routine that suits them. Also, remember that the precision of each shot will depend on the precision that goes into it. It's very important to practice as you play. So, don't practice hitting balls with the speed of a machine gun and expect to look like Couples or Els when you're on the course. Having differences between your practice and play will take you out of your comfort zone.

Create a routine, practice as you play, and take a deep breath. Each of these will help you to find your comfort zone.