If you’re a golfer, you always want to improve your game. Since a golf handicap is the most concrete measure of your ability, monitoring your handicap is an efficient way to gauge your progress as a golfer. Your golf handicap will naturally improve with time and experience, but it’s possible to lower your handicap through targeted effort. Here are a few practical tips you can use to improve your game.

5 Strategies to Lower Your Golf Handicap

1. Refine Your Short Game

The importance of putting is highly understated. The short game is all about feel. It can’t be completely taught; rather, it must be mastered through trial and error. Experiment with different types of puts to determine what works best for you on the course.

2. Work on Drills at the Range

Your time on the course shouldn’t be your only opportunity for perfecting your swing. The driving range provides an opportunity to practice and is an important tactic even for experienced players. To get the most value out of your time at the range, imagine you’re playing an actual round.

3. Get Fitted for the Right Clubs

While skill largely influences performance, having the right gear makes a difference too. This doesn’t mean that you need expensive clubs — rather, you should ensure your clubs are the right fit for your distinct needs. The right clubs should work for your particular swing and body type, not against it. Pro shop staff can fit you for the perfect set.  

4. Try Different Courses

You likely have a course where you’re most comfortable, but only by trying out a variety of locations will you conquer the broadest range of circumstances. Seek out a course which provides challenges for all levels of play, and make a point to occasionally book tee times at locations other than your home course.

5. Change Your Mindset

Golf is a thinker’s game, but being in your head too much can create unneeded pressure which can affect the quality of your swing. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, envision sending the ball home. You can also become a more resilient player by playing during rain, wind, and other poor weather. This kind of practice will make your game even stronger in optimal conditions.  

Whether you’re a longtime golf enthusiast or have just recently developed a passion for the sport, Royal Kunia Country Club in Waipahu, HI, welcomes you to enjoy a round at their magnificent champion golf course. Located on Oahu’s Leeward Coast, this sprawling public range has diverse conditions to accommodate each player’s unique skills, making it the perfect place for you to work on your golf handicap. Tour their course online or book a tee time by calling (808) 688-9222.