Project Practice Plan

The Importance of Knowing Your Distances in Golf  

Distance control is one of the most critical skills in golf. Knowing exactly how far you hit each club allows you to make smarter decisions on the course, avoid hazards, and set up better scoring opportunities. Whether you’re hitting a full swing with a driver or a controlled wedge shot into the green, accurate distance knowledge can help lower your scores and improve course management.  

 Why Knowing Your Distances Matters  

1. Better Club Selection – Choosing the right club for each shot leads to more consistent results.  

2. Avoiding Hazards – Understanding how far you hit each club helps you steer clear of bunkers, water, and rough.  

3. Improved Course Management – Controlling your distances allows you to position the ball for easier approach shots and better scoring opportunities.  

4. Confidence Over the Ball – When you know your distances, you can commit fully to each shot without second-guessing.  

 How to Work Out Your Distances  

To ensure you have an accurate understanding of your club distances, follow this process:  

✅ Step 1: Gather Your Tools  

- Use a TrackMan or other launch monitor for precise data.  

- Alternatively, hit balls on a driving range with distance markers and use a rangefinder or GPS device for verification.  

✅ Step 2: Warm Up Properly  

- Before measuring, hit a few shots to loosen up and swing naturally.  

✅ Step 3: Hit Multiple Shots Per Club  

- Hit 10 shots per club to get an average distance.  

- Remove any extreme mis-hits to avoid skewing the data.  

✅ Step 4: Record Key Distance Numbers  

- Write down your carry distance (how far the ball flies before landing).  

- Note your total distance (carry + roll).  

- Pay attention to consistency—the goal is to know your reliable distances, not your longest possible shots.  

✅ Step 5: Work on Partial Distances  

- For wedges, measure half-swing and three-quarter swing distances to improve scoring shots.  

✅ Step 6: Regularly Update Your Numbers  

- Check your distances at least once every three months, or whenever you notice a change in your swing, equipment, or playing conditions.  

 Using Technology on the Course  

Once you know your club distances, you can use a rangefinder or GPS device during play to measure how far you need to hit the ball. Simply:  

1. Use a Rangefinder – Aim at a target (flag, bunker, layup spot) to get an exact yardage.  

2. Check a GPS Device/App – Get front, middle, and back green yardages to make smarter approach shots.  

3. Compare with Your Distance Chart – Match the number with your club distances to pick the right club.  

By regularly tracking your yardages and using technology to make informed decisions, you'll gain greater control over your game and improve your ability to hit precise shots.  

⛳ Keep practicing and updating your numbers, and watch your scores drop!  

Cheers,  

Coach Colin