If you don't have the time, money or access to a golf course, you can still play variations of the game at a driving range. Using a scorecard from your favorite course, you can play simulated rounds, changing clubs and using strategies just as you would on the course. If the range you visit has a chipping and putting green, you can make your simulation even more realistic.
Step 1
Warm up your muscles before you start hitting balls. Perform moderate-intensity arm circles and swings, and golf swings with no, one and two clubs. Don't stretch before your practice -- you'll desensitize muscles and lose power for up to 30 minutes.
Step 2
Practice your swings, starting from the green and moving backward. Start with putts, if you have a putting green, then chip shots, pitches, approach shots, fairway irons and woods, finishing with your driver.
Step 3
Take a scorecard that has the layout of the course on it and prepare to play the first hole. Use the same club you would if you were on that hole at that course. Pick a spot on the range that simulates the spot on the first hole of your chosen course and aim for that spot. Perform the same pre-shot routine you do before you hit a shot on the course. Hit your ball.
Step 4
Choose a club for your second shot based on where your tee shot landed. If you sliced or hooked your tee shot, pick a spot on the driving range that approximates where you would need to hit, based on your current lie. Hit your second shot.
Step 5
Continue to play the hole until you finish. Use the same clubs, pre-shot rituals, swings and strategy for each shot you'd use on the course. Give yourself a penalty if you hit the ball out of bounds.
Step 6
Walk to the chipping or putting green to finish your hole if you have access to one within a few yards of the driving range and no one is waiting for your spot. Playing a round by moving back and forth from your spot on the range to a green will increase the wait time for others and might be discourteous if the wait times are long.
Step 7
Mark your score on your card. Keep track of statistics, such as fairways hit, greens reached in regulation, penalties and putts.
Things You'll Need
- Scorecard with layout
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