As a junior golfer, it’s important to develop good habits on and off the golf course to improve your game and enjoy the sport. However, there are some bad habits that many junior golfers fall into. Here are 5 bad habits of junior golfers and how to avoid them:
1. Not practicing enough – Junior golfers need to practice regularly to improve their game. However, many junior golfers don’t practice enough, or they practice inefficiently. To get better, junior golfers should aim to practice for at least an hour a day, focusing on different aspects of their game each time. This includes practicing putting, chipping, iron shots, and driving. They should also practice under different conditions such as in the wind, from uneven lies, and from different distances.
2. Being too hard on themselves – Golf is a mental game, and junior golfers need to learn how to manage their emotions on the course. Unfortunately, many junior golfers are too hard on themselves when they make mistakes, which can lead to frustration and poor play. Instead, junior golfers should learn to be patient, stay positive, and focus on their next shot. They should also remind themselves that mistakes are part of the learning process and that they can always learn from their mistakes.
3. Not warming up properly – Warming up before a round of golf is essential to prevent injuries and perform well. Junior golfers should start with some light cardio, such as jogging or jumping jacks, to get their heart rate up and warm up their muscles. They should then do some stretching, focusing on the areas of their body used in golf, such as the shoulders, hips, and legs. Lastly, they should hit some practice shots to get a feel for their swing and the course conditions. By warming up properly, junior golfers can reduce the risk of injury and start their round on the right foot. If you can’t get on the driving range before your round, it is important to find an open area to take round-like swings at full speed to get loosen up.
4. Playing with the wrong equipment – Using the wrong clubs can lead to poor shots, inconsistent ball flight, and even injury. Junior golfers should get properly fitted for clubs that match their height, strength, and swing speed. This means getting the right shaft flex, clubhead size, and grip size. Properly fitted clubs can help junior golfers hit the ball farther, straighter, and with more consistency. Additionally, junior golfers should regularly check the condition of their clubs and replace them when needed. By using the right equipment, junior golfers can play their best and avoid unnecessary frustrations.
5. Not having fun – Golf can be a challenging and frustrating game, but it should also be enjoyable. Junior golfers should focus on the process of playing rather than just the outcome. They should appreciate the beauty of the course, the company of their playing partners, and the opportunities to learn and improve. Junior golfers should also celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and learn from their mistakes. By having fun on the course, junior golfers can develop a love for the game that lasts a lifetime.
In summary, junior golfers need to focus on developing good habits to improve their game and enjoy the sport. Above I shared 5 bad habits of junior golfers and ways to avoid them: practicing regularly and efficiently, managing emotions on the course, warming up properly, using the right equipment, and, most importantly, having fun. By doing so, junior golfers can build a strong foundation for a successful and enjoyable golfing career. Remember, golf is not just about winning or losing, but also about enjoying the process and learning from every experience. So, keep practicing, keep having fun, and keep improving your game! Parents, be sure to check out our Parent’s Guide To Junior Golf and be sure to follow me on all of my social media pages (Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube). There I share daily content, including tips and tricks from my tournaments, lessons and range sessions.