Each of the world’s best professionals has a specific practice regime, often outlined by their coach (or coaches) to ensure they prepare in an ordered and beneficial way.
Too many amateurs believe it’s enough to stand on the range and bash balls; having a plan and sticking to it can make your time on the range worthwhile and ultimately improve your scores when you get back out on the course.
There are two types of practice – technical, using drills and training aids – and real practice, using targets, your pre-shot routine and analysing each shot. A combination of these in each session is key to getting the most from your time.
John’s range tips
• Write down your plan for the session and stick to it, working on specific areas of the game or drills from your coach and doing some ‘real’ practice
• Take your time. Don’t just drag and hit – analyse what you’re doing. If you find this tough, place your basket of balls against the back wall and walk to get each one
• Use practice swings and drills to ensure each shot is worthwhile. When I work with Ken Ferrie, a two-hour session could see him hit as few as 30 balls.
• Get the basics right. Pick a target and ensure your alignment is correct – this is the biggest cause of the classic ‘I can’t take my range game to the course’ as on the range you’re not compensating to hit it where you think you’re aiming.
