If you are a beginning golfer, you probably understand the basics in terms of how a golf score is calculated and what constitutes a good round. What you may not be familiar with is the golf handicap system, which is a numerical value of your overall playing ability that is separate from your score. If you play golf regularly, it's important to understand what your handicap is and what you can do to improve it.
History
Handicapping was first introduced to golf in the late 17th century. According to the United States Golf Association, handicapping first originated in horse racing, where the term was used to refer to a rider's betting odds. The term began to be applied in a similar way to golf in Scotland in the 1680s. By the late 1890s, golf clubs around the world began to implement handicap systems for tournament events that featured odds. The first American handicap system was adopted in 1911 and is still regulated by the USGA.
Significance
A golf handicap system is significant because it gives players an idea of their playing capabilities compared with other golfers. According to Golf Medley, the primary purpose of a golf handicap is to allow for fair competition, regardless of individual skill level. Using a handicap system allows you to track changes in your game over time and it increases your odds of winning against more experienced players.
Types
The two types of golf handcap are a handicap index and a course handicap. According to Golf Medley, a handicap index measures your general playing ability based on your performance in previous rounds. A course handicap measures your playing potential at a specific course. You must be able to calculate your handicap index to determine your course handicap.
Calculation
Specific rules must be followed to calculate your handicap index. According to the USGA, you must first calculate your handicap differential for each round. This is done by subtracting the USGA course rating from your adjusted gross score, multiplying that number by the standard slope rating of 113 and then dividing the total by the course's USGA slope rating. Once you have played at least 20 rounds, you can use your 10 lowest handicap differentials to calculate your handicap index. Simply average them together and multiply the total by .96 to determine your handicap index. Course handicap is determined by multiplying your handicap index by the course's slope rating and then dividing the total by 113.
Considerations
A golf handicap system requires certain requirements. First, the USGA requires you to be a member of an approved golf club in order to establish your handicap. An approved golf club is one that has 10 or more members and plays regularly in a specific location. Second, your handicap is relative to your previous best rounds so it is possible to improve your handicap as you become a more experienced golfer.
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