Do You Need Better Golf Practice Routines?
When you head to the driving range to practice your golf swing, do you leave feeling more confident, or do you find yourself more confused than when you arrived? If you’re like most golfers, you might leave the range frustrated, feeling less sure about your swing. This common experience highlights the need for better practice routines.
Understanding the Problem: The Balls Per Minute Ratio
A surprising 9 out of 10 golfers feel less confident about their swing after a session at the range. The intention is to improve, but many walk away disappointed. One key factor in this issue is what we call the Balls Per Minute (BPM) ratio.
What is Your Balls Per Minute Ratio?
Your BPM ratio is simply the number of golf balls you hit per minute. Tracking this metric can reveal a lot about your practice habits. You might be shocked to discover how little time is spent on actual practice versus just hitting balls.
I recently observed a golfer at the range who exemplified this issue. While I was hitting at a relaxed pace of about 2 BPM (one ball every 30 seconds), the golfer next to me was hitting at a rate of 5 BPM. Initially, his shots were decent, but as his BPM increased, his performance deteriorated—topping shots, hitting behind the ball, and making large divots.
The Downward Spiral: More Balls, Worse Shots
As I continued to practice, I noticed that many golfers on the range were hitting balls rapidly without taking the time to analyze their shots. They would hit a ball, glance at its flight, then quickly grab another, often with a look of frustration. This pattern led to a cycle of poor shots followed by even faster hitting, creating a downward spiral.
It’s akin to an inexperienced gambler in Las Vegas who, after losing money, takes bigger risks to win it back, only to lose more. On the driving range, this translates to hitting more balls faster, with worsening results.
Is This Really Practice?
Many golfers believe they are practicing when they are merely hitting balls. True practice involves thoughtful analysis and correction, not just repetition. By hitting balls without understanding what went wrong, golfers engrain bad habits rather than improving their swing.
So, What About You?
What’s your BPM? Are you genuinely practicing, or are you just hitting golf balls? This distinction is crucial. PGA Tour players typically have a lower BPM because they focus more on quality than quantity, analyzing and adjusting their technique after each shot.
Elevate Your Practice to Elevate Your Game
To become a more consistent and skilled golfer, it’s essential to improve your practice habits. Rather than just hitting balls, incorporate drills and focused practice techniques that address specific areas of your game. This approach not only reduces the likelihood of developing bad habits but also enhances your overall skill level.
At Golf Made Simple (GMS), we teach you how to practice effectively, helping you transition from just hitting balls to becoming a true Player. With proper guidance, you’ll find that your time at the range becomes more productive and enjoyable.
Marc Solomon – Your Instructor For Life
