While a professional golf instructor can help you learn the sport quicker, you can improve your swing on your own if you don't have access to one. Using a variety of common teaching aids and effective practice methods, you can increase your distance and lower your score.
Nets
One of the more common training aids is the golf net. You can purchase portable nets that rise only a foot or so off the ground, or larger nets that let you stand farther back when you hit. These nets allow you to hit real balls with real clubs using full swings without requiring a long hitting field. Whichever you choose, make sure you can complete your normal swing each time. If you have to adjust your swing to use the net, you may imprint improper movements into your swing.
Simulated Rounds
You never get to hit 100 balls in a row with the same club from the same lie on the course, so practicing that way on the driving range exclusively is not helpful. Finish each practice session by playing simulated holes to better retain what you've just practiced. Start with your driver, and hit the ball from a tee. Depending on where your ball lands and what hole you're playing -- in your mind -- select the next club you would use on the course, and hit it from the grass. Continue to play the hole, using approach shots, pitches and chips. This is even more effective if you have a pitching or putting green nearby.
Plastic Balls
Lightweight plastic balls that don't fly far let you practice your full swing in the backyard or other area with limited space. You can use your regular clubs, stances and swings to work on your game without fear of breaking anything or having to spend much time retrieving balls.
Rituals
When you practice your swing, use the same pre-shot routines you'll use on the course each time. If you waggle your clubhead behind the ball before drives, do that on the driving range. If you tap the ground twice before putts, do that on the putting green. Making these rituals part of the stroke helps trigger the correct motor memory when you're on the course.
Swing Trainers
Several companies offer swing trainers that they claim help you swing the club in the correct manner. Depending on the trainer, the device will help you prevent swinging from inside to out or vice versa. These devices may also help you keep your body in better alignment by forcing you to follow a correct swing path. Their main claim is that they help you imprint "muscle memory" by having you swing the club the same way over and over, but motor research indicates that the benefit of repeating a motion lasts only a limited number of swings.
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