“Weekend Warriors: 7 Golf Tips to Instantly Improve Your Game”
- Sean Bozzi
- Jan 17
- 3 min read
For the weekend golfer, tee time isn’t just a hobby—it’s an escape, a chance to unwind, compete, and maybe hit that one shot worth talking about all week. But let’s face it: golf can be brutal on the ego. One minute, you’re striping drives down the middle; the next, you’re wondering if golf is really your sport.
The good news? You don’t need a major swing overhaul to play better. Whether you’re chasing birdies or just trying to break 90 (or 100—no judgment), these practical tips will help you elevate your game, have more fun, and maybe even win that weekend wager with your buddies.
1. Play Within Yourself (Stop Trying to Be Rory)
One of the biggest mistakes weekend golfers make is trying to play shots they have no business attempting. You’re not on the PGA Tour, and that’s okay.
What to do:
Choose clubs you’re comfortable with, not the ones that go the farthest. If you hit your 7-iron more consistently than your 5-iron, stick with it.
Stop going for the green from 230 yards out over water. Lay up, play smart, and save yourself the penalty strokes (and the frustration).
2. Focus on the First 100 Yards
For most weekend golfers, the short game is where rounds go to die. If you want to improve quickly, spend less time chasing distance and more time dialing in your wedges and putter.
What to do:
Practice chipping from different lies—rough, fairway, and fringe—so you’re ready for any situation.
Spend time on the putting green before your round. Lag putts (20+ feet) and short putts (inside 5 feet) are where strokes are won or lost.
3. Tee It Forward (No, Seriously)
We get it—playing from the back tees feels like a badge of honor. But if your drives aren’t clearing 250 yards consistently, you’re making the game harder than it needs to be.
What to do:
Move up a set of tees. You’ll still face challenges, but the game becomes more enjoyable when you’re not staring down a 480-yard par 4 every other hole.
4. Warm Up (Even if It’s Quick)
Rolling out of the car and heading straight to the first tee is a recipe for disaster. A few minutes of warm-up can mean the difference between starting strong or slicing your first three drives into the trees.
What to do:
Arrive 20 minutes early and hit a small bucket of balls. Start with wedges, move to mid-irons, and finish with a few driver swings.
No time for the range? Stretch! Loosen up your shoulders, back, and legs with a few dynamic stretches or practice swings.
5. Master the Punch Shot
As a weekend golfer, you’re going to find trouble—trees, bushes, bunkers, you name it. Instead of trying a miracle recovery shot, add a reliable punch shot to your arsenal.
What to do:
Use a low-lofted club (like a 4- or 5-iron) and choke down on the grip.
Keep your swing short and controlled, and finish low to keep the ball under branches or wind.
6. Stop Obsessing Over Your Swing Mid-Round
We’ve all been there: you hit a bad shot and immediately start analyzing your grip, stance, or takeaway. Before you know it, you’re tinkering with your swing and spiraling into a bad round.
What to do:
Commit to your pre-round swing. The course isn’t the place for major changes—save those for the range.
If you’re struggling, focus on tempo and balance instead of mechanics. Smooth swings often fix more problems than overthinking ever will.
7. Don’t Neglect the Mental Game
Golf is as much a mental battle as it is a physical one. Staying focused and positive can make or break your round.
What to do:
Set realistic expectations. You’re not going to birdie every hole, and that’s okay. Aim for improvement, not perfection.
Let bad shots go. A poor drive or missed putt doesn’t have to ruin your round. Take a breath, reset, and focus on the next shot.
Bonus Tip: Play for Fun, Not Perfection
At the end of the day, you’re out there to enjoy yourself. Golf is supposed to be fun—even when you’re fighting the slice or chasing your ball into the woods. Laugh at the bad shots, celebrate the good ones, and soak in the beauty of the course.
Final Thoughts
Weekend golf doesn’t have to be frustrating. By playing smarter, focusing on the right areas, and embracing the joy of the game, you can elevate your performance without putting in hours of practice. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even win a few skins in the process.
-SB
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