Control your Distances!

Introduction

Distance control is a critical skill in golf that separates good players from great ones. Being able to consistently hit your shots the correct distance leads to more birdie opportunities and fewer three-putts. As a PGA Associate and Coach, I emphasize structured practice drills that build feel, precision, and consistency. This guide will walk you through key distance control drills for full shots, wedges, and putting.

1. Fundamentals of Distance Control

  • Consistent Tempo: A smooth, repeatable tempo improves shot predictability.

  • Proper Contact: Striking the center of the clubface ensures accurate distance.

  • Controlled Swing Length: Regulating backswing length directly affects shot distance.

  • Feel vs. Mechanics: Developing a natural feel for different yardages is crucial.

2. Distance Control Drills

1. Clock Drill for Wedges

Purpose: Helps control wedge distances by regulating swing length.

 How to Do It:

  • Imagine your arms moving like a clock’s hands.

  • Use reference points like 7:30, 9:00, and 10:30 for different distances.

  • Hit shots with each swing length and record the carry distances.

  • Develop a chart with your distances for each wedge.

2. Ladder Drill for Irons

Purpose: Improves precision by learning to hit specific yardages.

How to Do It:

  • Pick five target distances (e.g., 100, 120, 140, 160, 180 yards).

  • Hit one shot to each target using different clubs and swing lengths.

  • Focus on maintaining the same tempo while adjusting power.

  • Repeat the sequence and track accuracy (track using a launch monitor, or range finder for accuracy).

3. Three-Ball Putting Drill

Purpose: Enhances feel and pace control on the greens.

 How to Do It:

  • Place three balls at varying distances (10, 20, and 30 feet).

  • Putt each ball while focusing on getting the correct pace.

  • The goal is to stop the ball within a one-foot circle around the hole.

  • Repeat until you consistently control each distance.

4. Half-Swing and Three-Quarter Swing Drill

Purpose: Improves distance control by learning different swing lengths.

How to Do It:

  • Hit shots with a half-swing, three-quarter swing, and full swing using the same club.

  • Observe the difference in carry distances (track using a launch monitor, or range finder for accuracy).

  • Use these variations on the course to fine-tune approach shots.

5. Wedge Gapping Drill

Purpose: Ensures consistent gapping between wedges.

How to Do It:

  • Hit 10 shots with each wedge and measure the carry distances (track using a launch monitor, or range finder for accuracy).

  • Identify any gaps and adjust technique or club selection.

  • Helps eliminate guesswork inside 100 yards.

6. Leapfrog Putting Drill

Purpose: Improves lag putting feel and prevents three-putts.

How to Do It:

  • Place a tee or marker every five feet starting from 10 feet.

  • Try to putt each ball past the previous one without going too far.

  • Teaches precise pace control under different green speeds.

3. Applying These Drills on the Course

  • Use a Launch Monitor, Rangefinder, or GPS for Accurate Yardages.

  • Practice with Different Golf Balls to Understand Feel Variations and find the ball type that is most consistent for you.

  • Track Your Distances and Build a Personal Yardage Chart.

  • Stay Focused on Tempo and Rhythm Over Power.

Conclusion

Mastering distance control requires structured practice and a feel for different shot types. By incorporating these drills into your routine, you’ll develop a more precise, consistent game that leads to lower scores. Stay patient, track your progress, and watch your confidence grow on the course!

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