Golfers are constantly looking for that quick fix or “secret sauce” that will instantly take their game to the next level. But ask any seasoned instructor or successful player and they’ll tell you there’s no magic tip that can replace hard work.
With that said, there are smart and efficient ways to practice that will help you fast track your progress. And according to Monique Thoresz, a GOLF Teacher to watchthere’s one key statistic every golfer needs to know if they want to play better: your average carrying distance with every club.
This critical data can help your game in more ways than one. Here’s why this information matters more than you might think.
1. It gives you a real understanding of your game.
“Most amateurs don’t know how far they hit their clubs,” Thoresz says, “and if you’re going to try to hit your best possible scores, you need to know the basic facts (like carry distance) about your game.”
Basic knowledge—like average carry levels—will help you increase your awareness of your game, which will help you be more intentional on the course and practice range.
2. It helps you make better decisions on the course.
This, again, feels obvious, but it’s worth hammering home. Knowing your carry numbers is critical in situations where accuracy matters – which is almost every golf shot. When you find yourself having to hit over a hazard or onto a firm green, you’ll thank yourself for calling ahead to your yardage.
Not only will you have a better club selection, but you’ll also be able to mitigate risk and adjust your course strategy to the conditions.
3. Ensures that your equipment is suitable for your game.
Knowing your average distances can help you identify significant overlaps or gaps between your clubs. So when you work with a fitter, you can be sure to build a bag that is efficient, consistent and supports your needs from top to green.
4. Builds trust
Don’t underestimate the effect that confidence – or lack of confidence – can have on your performance. When you know your carry distances, you can trust your decisions and avoid second-guessing when the pressure is on.
5. Keeps your game sharp all year round
Constantly calibrating your yards helps you track changes due to movement adjustments, weather changes, or equipment. That’s why Thoresz says it’s important to dial in your distances before the offseason.
“Before you start any swing changes, you want to know some basics about how far you’re hitting the ball,” she says.
Regularly updating your shipping data keeps your game consistent and your practice on target. As a general rule, Thoresz says it’s a good idea to check your yards three or four times a year—or as often as monthly if you’re serious about your game.
6. Creates focused practice sessions
Tracking carry distances turns your practice sessions into something that is measurable and meaningful, which is essential – especially for younger players.
“Some people might think, ‘I’m not good enough to do this.’ But I think doing this exercise really makes you connect with your practice a little bit more,” says Thoresz.
Which can give rookies validation that they’re improving, even if the scorecard doesn’t reflect it. Having this kind of data-driven practice can keep you motivated and able to see the “invisible gains” you’re making.
7. It is a hallmark of every good player.
Simply put, knowing your carry yards is something all the best golfers in the world do.
“There’s no good player who doesn’t know how far they take their particular club,” Thoresz says, “So yeah, I think that’s a critical piece of information you need to get to that next level.”
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