Full Breakdown
Gamifying Short-Game Practice: A New Approach for Golfers
3/28/2026, 4:52:02 PM
Transforming Practice with Games
Many golfers struggle with the short game, particularly putting, which is often viewed as less exciting than driving. A golfer recounts their experience of spending more time practicing putting than ever before, attributing this shift to two simple games introduced by a high school player at their course. These games, “Sevens” and “21,” have significantly changed the golfer's perspective on short-game practice, leading to increased engagement and improvement.
Game Mechanics and Benefits
In “Sevens,” players take turns putting from a random hole on the practice green, with each hole scored as a par-2. The first player to reach 7 over par loses. The second game, “21,” involves chipping where players aim to land their balls closest to the hole, earning points based on their proximity. These games can be played solo or with others, making them versatile for practice sessions.
Additionally, the golfer has developed a solo game that emphasizes speed and accuracy. By placing a tee two feet behind the hole, players score points based on their ability to land the ball between the hole and the tee. This game has helped the golfer improve their speed control, a noted weakness in their putting game. They also practice chipping from just off the green, aiming to get up and down from various positions, which is crucial for saving strokes during actual rounds.
The Importance of Intentional Practice
The introduction of these games has transformed the golfer's practice routine from monotonous drills to engaging challenges. By keeping score, every shot becomes significant, fostering a more focused and intentional practice environment. This approach encourages the golfer to concentrate on their setup and technique, reinforcing the fundamentals of both putting and chipping.
Conclusion: A Path to Improvement
The golfer believes that this gamified practice will lead to better results in actual gameplay. By making practice sessions more enjoyable and purposeful, they have found a way to enhance their skills in the short game, which is essential for reaching a lower handicap. The shift from traditional practice methods to a more dynamic and engaging format illustrates the potential benefits of incorporating games into training routines for golfers at all levels.
