Your handicap doesn’t have to mean the end of your game. You can improve your handicap with practice. You may also be surprised to learn that improving your short game is actually more effective than getting longer off the tee. There are lots of strategies that can make your golf game better quicker. Here are seven fail-safe ways to get you a lower handicap.
1. The Right Clubs
When you have the right tool for the job you’re able to do a good job. The same is true for golfing. Get yourself a good set of clubs so you can step up your game. Be sure to have golf wedges for high handicappers.
2. Glove
Wearing a glove on your non-dominant hand can give you and your game a good amount of support. You can improve your grip while creating a safer swing. A good quality glove is one of the golf essentials to most players, helping to keep your club’s grip dry on hot days and prevent the club from turning in your hands while you swing.
3. Improve your grip
The way you grip your club matters. There are multiple proper grips options, so it’s a good idea to check out your options and see what feels good to you. And which is most effective for lowering your handicap. A popular hold has your index finger and thumb in the shape of a V, it is often referred to as the “neutral position.”
4. Mark Your Ball
Balls are a dime a dozen, so make sure you’ve got plenty. As long as the golf ball is yours, break out a Sharpie and draw some straight lines on your ball. In fact, some balls are manufactured with guide arrows to help you better line up your shot and better align yourself.
5. Practice Putting
Putting takes more energy than many may think. You’ll need to practice both patience and thoughtfulness. Change your putting goals. Stop trying to sink putts outside of five feet. Instead go for two putts per green. If you can hit an effective second putt, you’ll be more likely to sink more shots and get better scores.
6. Know the Rules
Knowing the rules of golf will definitely improve your game. You’ll be able to play to the rules and to your advantage. The ability to touch the line of play can be very helpful in aligning your shot and yourself. Knowing that you can use your longest club to measure your relief area can increase the relief area, giving you more leeway.
7. Target and Position
It’s a good idea to line yourself up with a target. It could be a tree very near where you are aiming your putt or even one near you. You want your body to be positioned in the right direction to get the most out of your swing. Center yourself and plant your feet, putting a little more weight on your back foot.
Whatever your handicap, remember that golf is supposed to be fun, so give yourself permission to enjoy the game. Put in some practice, watch a few videos, brush up on the rules and you’ll be celebrating a lower handicap in no time.