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To reach the coveted single-digit golf handicap, immerse yourself in the art of course management, hone your short game skills, ensure your swing mechanics are consistent, and cultivate mental resilience on the course. By embracing these essential strategies, you can elevate your performance and watch your scores drop dramatically
To break 80 in golf, top instructor James Ridyard highlights the significance of simple course management. His key advice: “Play to the fat part of the green.” By targeting the center, golfers can minimize mistakes and enhance their scores.
For those struggling to find consistency on the golf course, experts say it may come down to a common mistake being made before they even swing. According to renowned golf instructor and star of Golf Channel’s “School of Golf” Martin Chuck, an incorrect connection between the clubface and ball can throw off any swing. “If your swing feels erratic and you’re missing the ball a lot, one of the first things to look at is that clubface-to-ball connection,” Chuck said. “If it’s not on, it’s going to be very difficult to execute a smooth swing.” Chuck advises golfers to slow down their swing tempo, envision the ideal swing path and practice the shot repeatedly. By addressing this issue at its source, players can see consistent strides in their gameplay.
The 1 shot you must avoid when trying to break 80, per top teacher
If your golf game is stuck in the 80s and you’re wondering why you can’t seem to break into the 70s, it could be because you’re making this one common mistake.
According to top golf instructor James Ridyard, who recently shared with us his key tips for breaking 80, golfers should avoid trying to hit hero shots.
“The biggest key is not trying to be a hero, especially when it’s not necessary,” he said. “The big thing is to make sure you hit the shot to the easier part of the green. Don’t try to get tricky on the golf course.”
Playing aggressively to get closer to the pin on the approach shot can often lead to a big miss that you can’t recover from and ends up costing you multiple strokes.
Instead, aim for the biggest part of the green, making it easier to hit your target, putting you in a good position for your next chip or putt.
To break 80 in golf, top teacher James Ridyard emphasizes the importance of effective course management. This involves understanding the golf course, playing to your strengths, and avoiding costly mistakes. This can be achieved, according to Ridyard, by following the simple rule, “Play to the fat part of the green.” By aiming for the center of the green, golfers can reduce the risk of missing critical shots and improve their overall score.