Golf is hard. I am sure you don’t need me to tell you that. Unfortunately, most golfers really have no idea how to get better at golf.
With this article, I am going to give you a step-by-step process. I encourage you then to check out my Golf Training Program that goes into much more detail.
How to get better at golf – where to begin
The most difficult part about the game of golf is developing a repeatable golf swing that results in consistently good golf shots.
There is a ton of online content that breaks down all the common swing faults and how to correct them.
What most instructors seem to avoid discussing is that there is a sequence to the golf swing that you must learn and master if you ever want to get good at this game.
The thing is, it is really not that difficult. It’s just like learning how to throw a baseball or shoot a basketball. You just have to do things in the right order, and it really doesn’t matter how it looks.
Fundamentals of the golf swing
Once you learn the general movement pattern, it’s time to learn the fundamentals of the golf swing.
At this point, it’s a good idea to understand the Ball Flight Laws, so you know why a golf ball will curve to the right or left, or go high or low.
Next, you want to learn how to properly hold the golf club. The grip controls the clubface at impact, so you’ve got to have a good grip to make consistent contact.
After that, you want to learn the proper setup, and then the fundamentals of the swing itself.
Sadly, most golfers really never actually learn this stuff, even when they get lessons. They are always just looking for a quick fix, and that is what most instructors offer.
Why? They feel that is the only way they’ll get repeat business.
Build the swing with short shots
I feel like the best way to learn the full swing is to start with the shorter shots. Learn how to make consistent contact with short shots around the green.
Then learn how to control your distance with these shots.
Move on to building your swing with the 9-to-3 swing, which will also help you get dialed in with your wedge game.
So, now, we are literally killing two birds with one stone.
While you are developing short game skills, you are developing a better full swing.
All you have to do to get to that nice, repeatable full swing is extend that solid 9-to-3 swing.
Lower your scores faster with better putting
If you’ve been playing golf for awhile, you know by now that the fastest way to lower your scores is with improved putting.
Putting is what separates the men from the boys on the PGA Tour, and also among the amateur ranks.
You should probably spend close to 50% of your practice time working on your putting skills.
Keep in mind, you can practice putting anywhere.
Practice With More Focus
Most people show up at the driving range or on the practice green and just mindlessly hit balls and putts.
There is really no thought to what they are doing except that they hope their current swing or putting stroke results in better shots.
That simply won’t happen.
First, you’ve got to have a plan on what you want to work on before you arrive at the practice facility.
With each ball or putt you hit, understand what you are trying to accomplish. Practice swings and putts are just as crucial for improving your game as striking the ball.
How to get better at golf fastest – play more golf
You really can’t expect to get very good at this game if you are only going to play a couple times per month or once a week.
If you have to choose between playing and practicing, play more. Playing forces you to deal with managing your game.
While you won’t get as many swings or putts in during a round, or a quick nine, they will be more focused shots, and you will learn just as much as if spending an hour on the range.
Also, you may not have full confidence in your swing if you spend less time on the range. That can work in your favor by forcing you to stay within yourself.
The formula for playing better golf
If you are reading this, you are likely an adult. With adulthood comes responsibilities. A job, family, etc will take time away from practicing and playing.
Therefore, you’ll need to prioritize.
Take inventory of your game every now and then.
What part of the game is easiest for you? Where are you struggling?
In this regard, I am talking about general parts of the game, not specific types of shots.
For instance, if you suck at getting out of the bunker, it still shouldn’t be a major priority if you are three-putting six times per round.
Figure out what part of the game is holding you back the most and attack it.
Let’s say you tend to hit a big slice off the tee with the driver.
The driver will exaggerate the flaw in your swing that is causing you to hit a slice. Find out what the flaw may be, and then work on correcting the problem.
In the meantime, until you have fixed the problem, hit a 3-metal off the tee instead of the driver. The ball will curve less, and you will find yourself in less trouble.
Over time, one part of the game that was easy for you may become more difficult.
This is why you have to take inventory of your game from time to time to re-focus your priorities.
I always feel that having a good deal of knowledge can only be of benefit. That’s why I put together my Scratch Golfer EBook to give you all the information you need to become a better golfer. Check it out!
You should now have a better understanding of how to get better at golf.
Now, get to work!
