Why High Handicappers Need More On-Course Practice (and Less Driving Range Time)
For many golfers, especially high handicappers, the allure of the driving range is undeniable. Rows of mats, buckets of balls, and the promise of perfecting that swing can be comforting.
However, while the driving range has its benefits, it often doesn't translate to better performance on the course. For high handicappers looking to lower their scores and enjoy the game more, shifting focus to on-course practice is essential. Here's why.
1. Real-World Conditions Are Irreplaceable
The driving range offers controlled conditions—flat lies, perfect grass (or mats), and no pressure of performance. However, golf is rarely played under such ideal circumstances.
On the course, players face uneven lies, varying wind conditions, different grass, and strategic challenges. High handicappers need to learn how to adapt to these unpredictable elements, and the only way to do that is by practicing in real-game scenarios.
2. Course Management Skills Improve Through Play
Understanding how to navigate a golf course is just as important as having a solid swing. Course management involves making smart decisions about club selection, shot placement, and risk assessment.
High handicappers often lose strokes by making poor decisions rather than poor swings. By practicing on the course, golfers can develop a better sense of when to play aggressively and when to play conservatively.
3. Short Game Practice is More Effective On the Course
The majority of strokes in golf happen within 100 yards of the green. Yet, many high handicappers spend the bulk of their practice time on full swings at the range. On-course practice naturally emphasizes the short game—chipping, pitching, bunker shots, and putting—because these shots come up frequently during a round.
This is where tools like the Optimum putter from FocalPoint Putters can be invaluable, helping golfers practice putting under real-game conditions while playing.
4. Mental Game Development Happens During Play
Golf is as much a mental game as it is physical. Dealing with pressure, staying focused, and managing emotions are all skills honed through experience.
The driving range doesn't replicate the pressure of a must-make putt or the decision-making required after a wayward drive. High handicappers benefit from experiencing and learning how to handle these mental challenges by being on the course.
5. Realistic Practice Encourages Better Habits
On the driving range, it’s easy to fall into the trap of rapid-fire swings without real purpose. On the course, every shot counts, encouraging more thoughtful preparation and routine. This leads to better practice habits, such as proper alignment, visualization, and pre-shot routines, all of which are crucial for lowering scores.
6. Builds Confidence Through Experience
Success on the course builds confidence. High handicappers who practice in real-game situations become more comfortable with various shots and scenarios, leading to better performance. The more familiar they are with executing under pressure, the more resilient and confident they'll become.
Shift the Focus to On-Course Practice
High handicappers stand to gain significantly by spending less time on the driving range and more time playing. Whether it's playing a few holes after work, practicing different shots around the greens, or using the Optimum putter during rounds, the goal should be to simulate real-game conditions as much as possible.
At FocalPoint Putters, we believe in making putting simple and effective, helping golfers improve while they play. Our "Train While You Play" approach encourages golfers to turn every round into a productive practice session. So next time you think about hitting the range, consider heading to the course instead—your scorecard will thank you.
