Golf Hacks
Our Top 10 Golf Tips of 2021
We’ve been looking through the numbers and tallying up which stories drew your attention during the year.
We decided to share the findings with you, our loyal and wonderful readers, so we can reminisce together.
For the final 10 days of 2021, we’re offering up a snapshot of the top 10 stories from each of Golfweek’s most popular sections, including travel, the PGA and LPGA tours, instruction and amateur golf.
Today it’s instruction, which is led by Steve Scott, who has worn many hats, including professional at the Outpost Club, founder of the Silver Club Golfing Society and PGA Tour Live analyst.
It was a big year for Steve, who celebrated the 25th anniversary of one of golf’s historic moments recently passed when Tiger Woods attempted to claim an unprecedented third straight U.S. Amateur Championship conducted at Pumpkin Ridge GC.
His opponent was none other than our Steve, who, in a gracious move that follows golf etiquette, told Woods he had to move his mark back during a key putt. If Scott would have stayed silent, Tiger’s run would have certainly been derailed, but an act of sportsmanship still rings true a quarter-century later.
“Hey, Tiger – you need to move your mark back,” was released earlier this year (Skyhorse Publishing, $19.99), and is available at movethatback.com.
Here are the top 10 instruction posts of the year, as clicked on by you, our readers:
10. How to hit out of a fairway bunker
If you want to hit it solid out of fairway bunkers, approach it shallow and avoid the chunkers.
In this episode, Steve gives you a great tip on how to properly hit out of a fairway bunker.
Here’s the entire video, which will help you shave strokes off your game.
9. Stay in your lane (alignment stick drill)
Steve explains that a great way to stay on plane is by staying in your lane.
Steve uses an alignment stick drill that helps you easily keep everything aligned, thus giving you a great swing plane.
8. Allow gravity to help set up a shot
Want a setup fit for a queen or king, you’ve got to let gravity do its thing.
In this episode, our director of instruction gives you a great tip that will allow proper spacing between the hands and the body.
Here’s a look at the video from Steve, all shot at the gorgeous practice facility at Arizona State University.
7. Push and pull for more power
Using the lead hand is such a key component of a good golf swing.
Steve walks you through a simple drill that will help you make sure to handle this properly, ensuring you’ll get the most out of each swing you take.
Here’s a look at the video, which was shot at Sleepy Hollow Golf Club, just outside New York City.
6. Keep your hips and hands together
Most amateur golfers, in an effort to add more distance off the tee, swing primarily with the upper body. Now, what does this cause in the golf swing? Most of the time, this move will result in an over-the-top action, producing huge pulls or a ball flight that closely resembles that delicious yellow fruit.
How do you fix it? Steve explains his “hips and hands together” swing thought, and how the feeling of your hips firing, then your hands, can get your swing back on plane.
5. Maximizing distance off the tee
Distance is such a big part of the game and Steve has a simple rhyme to help you hit it long:
If you really want your drives to jump, you’ve got to hit it on the up.
Watch as Steve walks you through this tip.
4. Don’t chili dip the chip
If you don’t want to chili dip your chip, pay attention to this tip.
Avoid the clunkers you can’t stand when you’re just off the green by using this simple tip.
Here’s a look at the entire video.
3. Use an arched wrist to putt for the win
Looking to drop putts like Webb Simpson, Bryson DeChambeau, or Steve Stricker?
Steve says to try an arched putting grip, one that’s used by numerous pros to help on the greens.
It’s easy, as you can see in this short video.
2. Wedge shots done nice? Keep your hands ‘on ice.’
Many amateur golfers rely too much on timing, and flipping their hands at impact. This move leads to inconsistent strikes, which in turn, leads to inconsistent shots.
Steve Stricker, famous for his outstanding wedge play, minimizes hand action as much as possible when hitting a wedge shot, and our Steve believes you should do the same.
“Make sure your hands are very, very still, and passive almost like they’re frozen, on ice. That way you get your arms and your body more involved, and you get your hand action really out of it.”
1. Tee it low to watch it go, tee it high to let it fly
What many amateur players don’t understand is changing the height of your tee can change the shape of your shot. Teeing it low will help you hit a piercing cut. Teeing it high allows you to attack the ball on the way up and hit a towering draw.
“If I have trouble on the left side of the fairway, and I want to avoid that trouble, I’m going to tee it low and that’s going to ensure I hit a very straight, to slight fade with the driver.”
Click here to see our top instructional video of the year.
This article originally appeared on Golfweek.
Golf Hacks
How to Play Better Golf Without Changing Your Swing
Improve your golf game without changing your swing by focusing on smarter strategies, better equipment, and a winning mindset.
Improving your golf game often feels like it requires endless swing changes and hours at the range. But the truth is, you can elevate your performance without altering your swing mechanics. With smart strategies and subtle adjustments, you can lower your scores and enjoy the game more. Here’s how to play better golf while keeping your swing as is.
1. Fine-Tune Your Equipment
One of the quickest ways to improve is by ensuring your clubs and accessories are suited to your game.
- Custom Club Fitting: Adjusting your clubs to match your swing can improve distance, accuracy, and comfort without any changes to your technique. Seek out a fitting session with a local pro or a retailer like PGA Tour Superstore.
- Choose the Right Ball: Matching your golf ball to your swing speed and play style can enhance control and maximize distance.
- Replace Your Grips: Fresh grips improve your hold and prevent slippage, helping you hit better shots consistently.
2. Focus on Course Management
Great golfers don’t just play harder—they play smarter.
- Play the Safe Shot: Stick to shots you know you can execute well rather than chasing risky plays.
- Understand Your Distances: Knowing how far you hit each club can help you make better decisions on the course.
- Avoid Trouble Areas: Be mindful of hazards and tough pin placements, opting for strategies that keep you out of trouble.
3. Prioritize the Short Game
A strong short game is essential for lowering scores, and it doesn’t require any swing overhauls.
- Master Your Putting: Work on reading greens and improving your speed control to sink more putts.
- Refine Your Chipping: A simple, repeatable chipping motion can make all the difference around the greens.
- Practice Sand Play: Confidence in bunkers can save strokes and boost your overall game.
4. Work on Fitness and Flexibility
Your physical condition can directly impact your golf performance.
- Build Core Strength: A strong core provides stability and power, making your swing more efficient.
- Improve Flexibility: Stretching regularly helps maintain a full range of motion, reducing strain and enhancing consistency.
- Stay Active on the Course: Walking instead of riding in a cart can help maintain your rhythm and focus during a round.
5. Develop a Winning Mindset
Golf is as much a mental game as a physical one. Sharpening your mental approach can improve your results significantly.
- Stick to a Routine: A consistent pre-shot routine builds confidence and reduces anxiety.
- Focus on the Positive: Visualize successful shots and stay calm under pressure.
- Learn to Let Go: Don’t let a bad shot ruin your round. Accept mistakes and focus on the next opportunity.
6. Use Helpful Tools
The right accessories can make your game easier and more enjoyable.
- Rangefinders and GPS Devices: Knowing precise distances lets you make smarter club selections.
- Alignment Aids: Tools like alignment sticks can improve your aim and help you stay consistent on the course.
- Golf Shoes: A solid pair of shoes provides the stability you need to maintain balance during your swing.
Your Path to Smarter Golf
Improving your game doesn’t have to mean endless swing adjustments. By focusing on smarter strategies, optimizing your equipment, and sharpening your mental approach, you can achieve better results and enjoy golf more. Embrace these tips, and let your natural swing take center stage as you play your best rounds yet!
Equipment
A Hacker’s Guide – Golf Gadgets That Actually Work
Discover golf gadgets that genuinely enhance your game, from rangefinders to training aids, in this comprehensive guide.
In the ever-evolving world of golf technology, numerous gadgets promise to enhance your game. However, not all deliver on their claims. As The Golf Hacker, I’ve sifted through the noise to bring you a curated list of golf gadgets that truly make a difference. These tools have been tested and proven to provide tangible benefits, helping you improve your skills and enjoy the game even more.
1. Golf Rangefinders
Accurate distance measurement is crucial for club selection and shot planning. Modern rangefinders offer precise yardages, even accounting for slope variations.
- Callaway Golf 300 Pro Laser Rangefinder: This device provides accurate slope measurements and features a pin-locking technology with pulse confirmation. Amazon
- REDTIGER Golf Rangefinder: Known for its 1200-yard range and flag-locking vibration feature, this rangefinder is both reliable and user-friendly. Amazon
2. Swing Analyzers
Understanding and refining your swing mechanics is essential for consistent performance. Swing analyzers offer real-time feedback to help you make necessary adjustments.
- Blast Golf Swing Trainer: This sensor attaches to your club and provides instant feedback on metrics like swing speed, tempo, and face angle. Amazon
- Arccos Caddie Smart Sensors: These sensors attach to your club grips, offering detailed analytics and personalized recommendations through a connected app. Amazon
3. Putting Aids
Improving your putting can significantly lower your scores. Effective putting aids help develop a consistent stroke and better distance control.
- PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer: Designed to simulate real putting conditions, this trainer helps you practice putts of varying difficulty. Amazon
- SKLZ Golf Putting Cup: This portable putting cup allows you to practice your putting skills anywhere, helping to improve accuracy and consistency. Amazon
4. Golf GPS Devices
Golf GPS devices provide detailed course maps and real-time data, aiding in strategic decision-making on the course.
- Garmin Approach S62: A premium GPS golf watch offering full-color mapping, virtual caddie features, and comprehensive performance tracking. Amazon
- Bushnell Phantom 3 GPS: This compact device provides front, center, and back distances, along with hazard information for over 38,000 courses worldwide. Amazon
5. Training Mats
Practicing your swing at home can be highly beneficial. Quality training mats simulate real turf conditions, allowing for effective practice sessions.
- Rukket Tri-Turf Golf Hitting Mat: Featuring three different turf textures, this mat enables you to practice various shots, from fairway to rough. Amazon
- Dura-Pro Commercial Golf Mat: Known for its durability, this mat provides a realistic feel and can withstand thousands of swings. Amazon
6. Golf Ball Retrievers
Recovering lost balls can save money and reduce frustration. Efficient ball retrievers are essential for retrieving balls from water hazards or hard-to-reach areas.
- Callaway Golf Ball Retriever: This telescopic retriever extends up to 15 feet and features an ergonomic handle for easy use. Amazon
- I GOTCHA Jawz Golf Ball Retriever: Compact and lightweight, this retriever extends up to 18 feet and has a patented spring-release head for secure ball retrieval. Amazon
7. Golf Club Brushes
Keeping your clubs clean ensures optimal performance. High-quality brushes effectively remove dirt and grass from club faces and grooves.
- Pro Golf Club Brush Cleaner: This brush features a retractable zip-line and a squeeze water bottle, making it easy to clean your clubs on the go. Amazon
- Yoport Golf Club Brush and Club Groove Cleaner: With a 2-foot retractable zip-line and ergonomic handle, this brush makes cleaning your clubs effortless. Amazon
8. Golf Alignment Sticks
Alignment sticks are essential for practicing proper alignment and swing path. They help develop consistency and accuracy in your shots.
- SKLZ Golf Alignment Sticks: These durable sticks come with nine drills and games to improve your alignment and overall game. Amazon
- GoSports Golf Alignment Training Sticks: Featuring a foldable design for easy storage, these sticks are perfect for golfers of all levels. Amazon
9. Golf Ball Markers
Personalized ball markers add a touch of individuality and make it easy to identify your ball on the green.
- Team Golf NFL Golf Ball Marker Set: Show off your team spirit with these officially licensed NFL ball markers. Amazon
- Giggle Golf Bling Golf Ball Marker: Add some sparkle to your game with these fun and stylish ball markers. Amazon
10. Golf Training Aids
Various training aids target specific aspects of your game, from swing mechanics to grip and posture.
Golf Hacks
Shave 10 Strokes Overnight with This Simple Trick!
Attention golf enthusiasts! Are you tired of watching your golf balls plunge into water hazards or get lost in the rough? Have you spent countless dollars on the latest gear, only to see minimal improvement in your game? What if we told you that there’s a ridiculously simple hack that could revolutionize your game, and it’s something most players overlook?
Unlock the Secret Weapon of Golf Pros
While everyone else is obsessing over driving distances and the latest high-tech clubs, we’ve discovered the secret weapon that golf pros use to dominate the course: mastering the short game. Yes, you read that right. The key to dramatically improving your golf game lies not in the long drive but in the art of putting and chipping.
Why This Trick Is a Game Changer
Forget about complicated swing adjustments or expensive gadgets. By redirecting your focus to the short game, you can achieve astonishing improvements in your overall performance. Here’s why:
- Transform Your Scorecard: Putting can make up 40-50% of your total strokes. Imagine the impact on your score if you could putt like a pro!
- Boost Your Confidence: Excelling at chipping and putting builds a level of confidence that transforms your entire game.
- Save Strokes Like Never Before: Mastering your short game means you’re always just a chip and a putt away from par.
How to Leverage This Hack and Dominate the Greens
- Revolutionize Your Practice Sessions: Allocate at least 50% of your practice time to mastering the greens. It’s not just about hitting; it’s about hitting with purpose.
- Master Distance Control: Become a wizard of the greens by practicing putts from various distances. Your future self will thank you.
- Conquer All Lies: Practice chipping from every imaginable situation. When the pressure’s on, you’ll know exactly how to handle it.
- Mimic Real-Game Pressure: Challenge yourself with high-pressure putting and chipping scenarios. When it’s game time, you’ll be cool, calm, and collected.
The Shortcut to Golfing Greatness
If you’re seeking a foolproof way to elevate your golf game, look no further. This simple yet wildly effective focus shift is your shortcut to lower scores and higher bragging rights. So, are you ready to leave your golf buddies in awe? Embrace the short game mastery, and watch as your game transforms overnight. Say goodbye to double bogeys and hello to birdies and pars. Your golf game will never be the same again!
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