Time is always an issue for golfers. Most of us do not have enough time to dedicate it to our golf game. This, unfortunately, is a universal truth that plagues my beloved sport. Often, I discussed ways to improve our game without practicing; the result is never what they wanted to hear. The truth is that you can never produce fundamental changes to your golf game without practice. However, there are some things, according to Rick Shiels that you can do it lower your golf score. That is different than improving your overall game, but the results may be just as rewarding.

To be honest, this article is a rehash of a previous post from about two years ago. It is very important to share again because it might help you improve your golf scores at the beginning of your golf season vice waiting until the end.

If you are lucky enough to play golf once a week, the likelihood of drastically improving your game without tons of practice are slim. Yes, you can lower your score from time to time and that is always a good thing. The video below offers suggestions on how you can gain a few strokes a round to lower your golf score. They are simple and easy to replicate, hence it might be worth a look:

After watching the short video, each of his seven suggestions have merit. The three that I like the most will have a direct impact on your score because the tips focus on simple habits that you can change to improve your overall score.

First is to watch the ball until it comes rest. I cannot impress upon you the importance of this skill. I play golf with anyone and many beginners fail to watch were their ball finishes. Good or bad shot, they are picking up their tee or divot long before their ball comes to rest. Then the ask the annoying question of “did you see where my ball went?” Talk about a frustrating time for their playing partners. If you are a golfer, it it is important that you always watch were your ball finishes so you can find it and save those couple of strokes for a lost ball.

On a side note, I missed watching my third hole in one because I was picking up my tee as my ball tracked into the hole. Go figure!

Second would be to clean your equipment after each shot. A dirty club face will prevent consistent contact with the ball. Debry can cause improper spin on the ball, knock your ball off line, or reduce the distance your ball can travel. I do not understand why players do not clean their clubs, but it is a definite no-no. If you do not have a cleaning brush or a small retractable brush in your pocket, I recommend you get one. I is inexpensive and will save you stokes in the long run.

Lastly, watch your opponents putt on the green. You should be paying special attention if your line to the hole is similar to yours, but even if it is not. You can glean a great deal of information from their putt even if you do not thinks it is likely you will. Things to look for are speed of the greens, how the ball is rolling (flat or bumpy) and which way your opponents ball falls at the hole (it will tell you the break). All of these things will help you judge your line and speed of your putt. It is something simple that will help lower your score.

Playing better golf without practice is possible. Adopting the seven tips from Rick Shiels is a great place to start. Not everyone has the time or inclination to practice their golf game. Only you can determine your golfing journey and making minor changes to your game might be possible in order to garner some positive results. All you need to do is decide which path you want to follow.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!