Make the Most Of Your Practice Round

They say practice makes perfect, but in reality, it’s perfect practice that makes perfect. Instead of stepping up to a day of practice with little or no direction, mindlessly going through the motions in hopes that it’s getting you warmed up for an upcoming tournament or a big golf day, there are a few ways you can really dig in and make the most of your practice round.

We asked Justin Klemballa, Director of Instruction at Paradise Valley Country Club and Forest Highland Golf Club, and his answer is key. Justin recaps the importance of identifying your 6 easy holes, 6 medium holes, and 6 hard holes before practicing. This helps you set expectations in your head - and on the scorecard - before stepping up to swing. Respectively, you’ll then know which holes to play conservatively - allowing yourself to take one extra stroke - or more aggressively and competitively. Stay patient and wait for your opportunities to sink easier, more achievable holes on the course.

Justin’s second tip is to practice with a friend who plays your challenging holes - or the entire course - more frequently and with better results. Someone who knows the course can offer a different perspective, fresh insights, and helpful tips that might make it easier for you to approach a specific hole or course with better foresight. Tori’s tip? Don't be shy - when you call the pro shop to schedule your tee time, ask to be paired up with someone and be willing to accept their pointers.

Asking for help and support on the course is one of the best ways to collect new ideas and strategies that can up your golf game.

Justin’s third tip is to identify where your misses are. For example, if you’re on the fairway or the green, ask yourself where is a good place to miss? Left, right, long, short? While most people approach a hole with thoughts like “don’t go long,” or “don’t be left,” a more successful approach is shifting this question into a positive perspective. “A good place to miss would be left,” is more approachable, more realistic, and can help you temper those expectations throughout your play. This is also a great way to reduce stress and anxiety on the course.

At the end of the day, don’t forget that practice rounds are crucial! While sometimes you simply can’t make it to the course ahead of a tournament, getting a feel for what you’re up against is always going to set you up for success come tournament weekend.

Want more tips to help you get tournament ready? Our female-focused 6-week Compete Confidence Signature Course was designed to help you take your game to the next level and show up with confidence to every course.