Why Your Practice Routine Might Be Hurting Your Game (and Hot to fix it)
When it comes to improving your golf game, how you practice can be just as important as how much you practice. Many players spend hours at the range but see little improvement on the course. Sound familiar?
That’s because the most common golf practice mistakes are quietly sabotaging your progress. Let’s explore what’s going wrong—and how to fix it.
The Problem with Block Practice
What it is: Block practice means hitting the same club over and over at the same target - like smashing 50 7-irons in a row.
Why it hurts your game: Bock practice can create a false sense of improvement. You get into a groove, but that groove doesn’t translate to on-course conditions where no two shots are the same. It’s great for short-term confidence but bad for long-term performance.
The fix: Incorporate random practice - changing clubs, targets, and shot shapes regularly. This mirrors on-course situations and builds better decision-making and adaptability.
2. Range-Only Training Doesn’t Cut it
What it is: Practicing only on the driving range, where lies are perfect and there’s no pressure, can limit real progress.
Why it hurts your game: The course introduces uneven lies, wind, distractions, and consequences. If your game only works on the range, it won’t hold up pressure.
The fix: Include on-course practice and pressure drills. Play nine holes with one ball and track your stats. Practice from tough lies. Simulate real-game scenarios at the range by imagining fairways, hazards, or playing “worst-ball” challenges.
3. Mindless Repetition
What it is: Grinding through 100 balls without a plan or feedback.
Why it hurts your game: You reinforce bad habits, waste time, and walk away without measurable improvement.
The Fix: Always have a purpose for every session:
Set one or two goals
Use alignment sticks or video for feedback.
End each session with a few pressure shots - one ball, one chance.
4. Ignoring Your Short Game
What it is: Spending 90% of your practice time on full swings and 10% on chipping, pitching, and putting.
Why it hurts your game: The short game accounts for more than half your strokes. If you’re not practicing it, you’re leaving shots on the table.
The fix: Flip your focus: Practice 50% short game, 30% full swing, 20% on-course simulation. Make up-and down contests or putting drills part of every session.
How to Structure a Smart Practice Session
Here’s a simple, effective framework:
Warm-Up (5-10 min):
Stretch and hit a few wedge shots to ease in.
Technical Work (15-20 min):
Focus on a swing change or movement pattern with feedback tools.
Random Practice (20-30 min):
Vary targets, clubs, and lies. Mix in mental challenges.
Short Game Focus (20 min):
Work on chipping, putting, and bunker play (if available). Use games or scoring drills.
Pressure Shots (5-10 min):
End with 5 “tournament shots.” One chance. Score it. Reflect.
Final Thoughts: Smart Practice = Better Results
The key takeaway? More isn’t always better - better is better. Mindless range time can feel productive, but it won’t prepare you for the demands of the course. Make your practice time count with variety, purpose, and pressure.
Want help creating a customize, effective practice plan? Contact me at www.golf-instructions.com.