A fascinating new Golf Digest video explores why golfers often hit it beautifully on the driving range but struggle to produce the same shots when it actually counts.
If you’ve ever walked off the driving range convinced you’ve finally found your swing, only to lose it somewhere between the first tee and the third hole, you’re certainly not alone.
A new Golf Digest video tackles one of golf’s most common frustrations: why golfers often hit the ball beautifully in practice but struggle to reproduce those same shots on the course.
The video explains that most amateur golfers practise in a way that bears little resemblance to actual golf.
A typical range session involves repeatedly hitting the same club from a flat lie with no pressure, no consequences and no real decision-making. It’s comfortable and often feels productive, but it doesn’t prepare golfers for the challenges they face during a round.
One of the most interesting insights is the difference between how professionals and amateurs use their concentration.
Tour players tend to be extremely focused during practice, treating each shot with purpose and intent. Once they’re on the course, they trust that preparation and simply play.
Many amateurs do the opposite, casually hitting ball after ball on the range before becoming overly analytical and consumed by swing thoughts when it’s time to keep score.