We often find there are times when we can't get out on the golf course or we just don't have the time. Perhaps you just want to practice golf at home to keep on top of your game. Whether or not you have clubs and equipment, The Belfry's Director of Golf, Chris Reeve, has given us his top tips on golf training at home.
What equipment do I need to practice golf at home?
For most golf drills, you will need a putter and a chipping club. Foam golf balls are an excellent option for practicing golf a home. These are widely available on Amazon, are window proof for indoor games and challenges, and are suitable for all ages.
Try to avoid practicing your swing indoors, as there are too many variables for injuring yourself or damaging property. So only do this if you are using foam balls and have access to wide open spaces.
If you can get your hands on a chipping net, a putting mat, or a practice range mat then these are great aids to use. However, when these items are not available, you will need to get creative with the equipment you use. Think upside down umbrellas, hats and drink cans. The following exercises use household items for those who do not have access to golf training equipment and are just as effective.
Best golf drills to do at home
The following home golf drills are all designed to help you practice distance control, alignment, and aim, and are suitable for indoor and outdoor play.
Putting drills at home
Many golfers will argue that wasted shots tend to occur on the putting green. Perfecting your putt is an extremely effective way of improving your overall game and there's no better way to do so than practicing putting drills.
Basic putting drill
A basic putting drill involves creating a target and practicing your shot at varying distances. Keep an eye out for your swing path and club face, as these factors will determine whether you miss or hit your target. Putting aids, such as mirrors or arcs, are a great way to practice as they offer feedback on your swing and club face. But you can still practice without these.
Stroke play challenge
Belfry ambassador Stuart Broad takes us through his stroke play challenge. In this three-item drill, you will need to get the ball down a few stairs - even one step will do - towards a target such as a cap, with a final put towards an end target. Stuart managed to complete the challenge in six shots. Practicing the stroke play challenge regularly will help you to refine your aim and alignment.
Donalding drill
Belfry ambassador, Matt Wallace, takes us through his favourite drill for practicing distance control. This is usually done on the course but is easy enough to practice at home.
Write down 20 shots ranging in length from four to eight feet and place a tick next to each shot that you make within the target. Matt recommends setting a target of 15 out of 20 and assigning yourself a forfeit as an incentive. Practicing this weekly will help you improve your distance control, which is essential for those important deciding putts.
Chipping drills at home
Basic chipping drill
Take a target, such as a bottle or can, and place it against a wall. Using ten balls, make a clean strike from 10-15 feet and see how many times you can hit your target. Keep practicing this to improve your aim. When you're continuously hitting your target, move on to the next drill.
Cereal box chipping challenge
Daniel Warwick, Head PGA Golf Professional at The PGA National Academy, takes us through his favourite chipping drill to do at home.
Place three cereal boxes at 9, 12 and 15 feet from the starting point. Using a chipping wedge, the aim of the exercise is to knock the cereal boxes down in as few shots as possible. Try to knock all three down using just five golf balls.
Can I practice golf at home without clubs?
Practicing golf at home is of course made easier with the right equipment, but it is possible to improve your game without golf clubs. Check out our guide on golf fitness exercises at home.
Downtime at home doesn’t mean you can't practice your game. With just a club and a golf ball, you can practice your aim, alignment and distance control to master those all-important chipping and putting shots. So, make sure to keep practicing golf at home and ensure you're on top of your game when you return to the course.