HOW TO GET TO SINGLE FIGURES 🏌️✂

[@pietclyde4264]

Mate, in a massively overloaded space (ie; KZbin golf videos) this is one of the best and most original ideas for a video I’ve seen for ages. I’m a long way from single figures but this has given me heaps of food for thought, and inspiration. Just need to get out there and put these ideas into practice

[@RobMcGarr]

Thanks mate, absolutely chuffed with that comment! Hope your golf is going well 🤜🤛

[@LiberatedStockTrader]

Great video Rob, loved the contributions from everyone, all the different perspective really resonated. Down from 26 to 22 this year, so not good enough. Eliminate the bad shots, course management and short game are my new focus. Thanks all, best golf video in a long time. Rob the format rocks, keep it up.

[@RobMcGarr]

A lot of people would kill for a four-shot drop in a year so don't underestimate that achievement mate! Just keep moving forwards 👍

[@LiberatedStockTrader]

@@RobMcGarr Really...thanks man, I did not realize that

[@joeboyle6728]

Great video - thanks to all those who contributed, and to you Rob for executing the idea so well. I'm currently off 14.3 with aspirations for dropping at least another couple of shots next season. Biggest current weakness (among a few) is my approach play, so I'm spending a lot of time, both on the course and the range, on my iron play - (leaving the hybrids in the car) - to improve my accuracy. Enjoying your channel - keep it going!

[@RobMcGarr]

Cheers Joe! Enjoy your practice and hope the handicap falls quickly next season 🤞

[@abnashibanga2806]

Rob thanks for taking the time to put the video togther. Its genuis, paradigm of golfing advice. Personally I have to explore custom fitting see how that goes.

[@RobMcGarr]

No probs! Hope the fitting goes well 👍

[@timthecopyguy]

I got stuck around 13 for a while but dropped pretty quickly to 6 and then 5. The biggest change for me was attitude - stop throwing clubs or making excuses and accept you'll play bad shots. Don't dwell on them and just move on to the next shot. It certainly reduced the number of bad shots I play.

[@RobMcGarr]

Awesome advice no matter what handicap you're trying to achieve 🙌

[@thatgeezeruk]

Great advice, I said in my main comment...LOSE YOUR EGO! But what you say and adding manage your own expectations better covers it well.

[@pburnzzz9260]

Was it all mental?

[@timthecopyguy]

p Burnzzz mostly when I think back, yes. My swing etc didn't change much. Yes, I'm a better player, but I'm almost certain it's largely because I forget about a bad swing or shot quickly so it doesn't become 3 or 4 bad shots!

[@thatgeezeruk]

Once you have a swing that you're comfortable with and you're still not achieving then time to look at your head :) I used to play 6's then 5's now 4's, it works like this: 6 on every hole 108 5 on every hole 90 4 on every hole 72

[@jjd9990]

I found course management was a great help for me, knowing when to chip out and knowing when to go for it.

[@tonywestwell]

Thanks for getting all these very helpful hints from people who have managed to get low. My two way miss off the tee is killing me. Must book lessons to find out what I'm doing and how to start correcting it. Winter has arrived just in time.

[@RobMcGarr]

Always good to have a winter project! 🏌️‍♂️🧐

[@prestonbabey3998]

Tony Westwell I would recommend getting a year long lesson pack...when your pro knows you are going to be there all year he will help build your game rather than just patching holes...

[@Mr.mallaer]

I am not a strong believer in golf coaching. They all have body parts and position obsession. Nobody learns any other sport this way.

[@theamaturegolfer7798]

I started on my first handicap of 15 & was stuck in that range of 16/ 15 for 18 months. I’m naturally a good ball striker who always practiced the long game at the range etc. I’m now down to 9 because Im focused 80% of my practice in short game. Chipping putting & the ability to get up & down is the key in breaking 80. I shot a 76 yesterday through the ability to get up & down.

[@DaveBezeaugolf]

Thanks for using my clip! (know/play for your misses & custom fit thru to the putter) Great channel brother. I'm on the same journey to get to scratch (2.6 USGA now). Love all the insights and conversations happening in the comments. Keep it up!

[@RobMcGarr]

Thanks again for sending it - it was great! Good luck getting to scratch, I look forward to hearing your advice on what I need to do to get there!

[@DaveBezeaugolf]

Just keep grinding and stay committed to the changes you are making no matter the scores. My handicap always jumps up during changes but once they set in it drops lower than ever. Distance will make just about any course easier so I highly recommend working on club head speed. I went form 108mph to 118mph in a month using SuperSpeed Golf. Sometimes I get as high as 125mph! Would make for a great video for your channel and something you can track over time as well. Hope to collaborate more in the future, cheers man!

[@jeffchang5283]

David from San Diego, where did you get custom fit?

[@DaveBezeaugolf]

Hey Jeff! I have a mixed bag. My driver and wedges were custom fit with a Titleist contract fitter, if interested I can put you in touch with him. My irons and 3 wood were fit with Taylormade at their Hub at Arroyo Trabuco GC in Mission Viejo. My putter was fit at the Scotty Cameron Gallery in Encinitas. While the putter was pretty expensive to get fit and purchase I saw INSTANT and significant improvement so well worth the $$$!

[@jimdevine1608]

Finished at 11.0 this year and just been custom fit for new irons (putter fitting done this year). My best round this year was played with two really cool golfers which I think points that a relaxed but focused mental approach is worth a few strokes too. Good vid.

[@RobMcGarr]

Totally agree with that 👍

[@jwasher13]

I’m a 5. I see a lot of comments re short game but for me it was driving. If you can consistently put the ball in play off the tee then everything else becomes easier. Read the book Every Shot Counts by Mark Brodie. It explains strokes gained and will give you a new perspective on golf. Best way to be a better ball striker is to hit balls almost every day. Doesn’t have to be many balls. If you can’t hit balls at least make some swings.

[@barrysummers7005]

Got from 13.6 to 11.2 this year. Main focus has been short game 100 yards and in. I also dropped Driver. As one of the guys said on his video. I needed to eliminate penalty shots from my game and Driver was the main culprit. I decided that ego when signing my card was more important than off the tee. Aiming for 9 next year.

[@RobMcGarr]

Cracking work, based on what you've said I think 9 won't be far away!

[@DaveBezeaugolf]

That was my clip :) Make sure the drop is just temporary. Work on finding a shot your comfortable with during your range time then play some rounds where your score isn't important. Eventually you'll love hitting driver again!

[@stevenjones2891]

Love the course managment tips near the end, im off 13 and i rarely think of any of those things! good job on the Video Rob.

[@RobMcGarr]

Cheers Steven, hope they help!

[@TheWattsFactory]

Playing off 7 recently got down to 4 but heading in the wrong direction lol. Had a 15 year break from golf started 3 years ago again on 14 down to single figures in 18 months. I practice every week and play every week. I play with guys off single figures all the time. Course management has been my biggest improvement. Shot selection what to hit where to hit it. When I play my best I am focussing well, I am picking targets, approach angles etc. when I play badly generally it’s when my brain is elsewhere. Just going through the motions etc. even on bad swing days with good focus and course management you can still score. Yes you need to practice and play etc but if your brain is not switched on then you will miss your targets land it in crap places leaving not shit etc. focus visualise think chose do.

[@andrewboote7629]

Whilst not single figure, my handicap has dropped from 28 to 18 this year. As many said "short game, short game, short game". But a bigger help for me, was to remove my ego. Don't worry if you can't bomb your driver/carry 150 with a 7 iron etc. Understand what you can achieve (carry, shape etc) from a given position, rather than what your ego tells you can do, "course you can carry those two bunkers, lateral hazard and stop it dead on the green"

[@andrewboote7629]

This helped with short game kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHiZhXiEec1rmrc

[@Whitevanman_26]

great Video. I am off 13.4 and have got better this back end of the season. I am happy with my swing and get complements on all the time. i am going to prctice this off season on my putting and short game in an effort to get down to single figures next year. I know it won't be easy but I am looking forward to the journey. keep up the good content.

[@RobMcGarr]

Good luck Gareth, enjoy your practice this winter and watch the handicap come tumbling down next season!

[@seasonedgolfer6894]

Was a 6.7 in the US; quit for 10 years. Started up again about 1.5 years ago, and 10 years older. I am a ten, aiming to get to single again. Playing in tournaments and learning to manage your swing under pressure seems to be what I remember. No comparison between tournament golf and casual golf.

[@RobMcGarr]

Good point that - lots of people are completely different golfers when you put a card in their hand!

[@johnhue8933]

The bottom line n becoming single figures is to not to drop too many shots and you do that by keeping the ball in play. Key to that is driving and if you have a 2 way miss the wangers are going to cost you if you have a one way miss say a block you play to it taking it into account so when driving you aim left and the block comes out you end up right side of the fairway but not in the rough or trees, likewise if going to a green with a right pin you don't aim at it so if your block comes out you end up short sided. When it comes to driving make your range time realistic aiming at a fairway and making every shot real otherwise the range time is not transferable to real play. Practice your short putting A LOT and speed control on your lag putting, if you do that you cut down shots lost on the green. Likewise work on 30 yards in the clean up zone. If you can keep out of touble COURSE MANAGEMENT clean up around the green with a good short game and make short putts and be a good lag putter you will shoot to s ngle figures. To get lower work hard and study your distance wedges and work on distance control from 5 to 120 yards getting real ownership of your distances. There will be several short par 4s and par 5 holes with distance wedges in get good at this shot and the birdies will come . Make your training real so you are ON right from the first tee shot losing shots and getting into your game by hole 5 is not going to cut it. If you can practice on the course as that is more real. When it comes to getting the most out of training you will find this information very useful. kzbin.info/door/PvGlDhU2r1KbJUP2H__MVQ

[@megamastermorris2003]

Great video again! I think that point about not aiming for the perfect swing, is something i need to consider. Already at 9 but I think I’ve fluked it, so still found this useful!

[@RobMcGarr]

Fluked it 😂 Good job you didn't give me your advice - "Just fluke it"

[@leftygolf2985]

Great video! Common thread almost everyone mentioned was short game, but I thought it was really interesting most people had a different idea of what was most important for them. That makes sense to me because you see lots of different types of players with different strengths and weaknesses out there on the course. Everyone has thought pretty deeply about how to improve their game, which makes sense if they're watching your channel. That's what I think is the key to getting better. Thanks, and fantastic concept for video.

[@alanwaterworth6464]

nice one Rob. Tiger Woods said in an open presentation thing he did at a driving range where he was hitting shots and answering questions, that he practices from the green backwards, so putting and chipping first, then everything else. Sounds pretty reasonable to me, and coincides with most of the tips on your video.

[@RobMcGarr]

The long game is important, obviously - but for me sorting the short game was the low-hanging fruit. It was fairly easy to improve that whereas improving the long game is proving much harder!

[@alanwaterworth6464]

@@RobMcGarr All of golf is hard Rob! you get your tee shots sorted out, and the short game goes to pot. I spent some time last year working on my chipping, but my tee shots were chaos! was using Mickelsons "hinge and hold" method quite successfully, which saved me quite a few times. This year, sorted out my long game and got my tee shots working pretty well (about 80-90% fairways hit), and gone over the the "more reliable" wooden man method of chipping, but with less success, lots of thins and duffs, and struggling to gauge distance despite what all the advice says about it being more reliable! Golf is so annoying!

[@RobMcGarr]

@@alanwaterworth6464 You're not wrong! I guess that's why it's so infuriating but addictive!

[@jonathanjohnstone7351]

I often find myself around 110 -130 yards to to the green after a cracking drive only to walk away with a par, bogey or worse! So that's what I'll be working on in the winter. Worst I'm walking away with next year is a par! Already at 8 hdc. So next year looking to shave 3 shots off! Need to work on putting also. Can't wait till the weather gets better! Long 5 months 😭😭😭😭

[@RobMcGarr]

That was my exact situation! Tell me about it ❄⛄😕

[@jacobfendrick]

I play as a nine now and what I would say helped me is my short game I practice that a lot and my mental game I've read and listened to a lot of mental game books and have really been able to build my confidence up to where I think and know I can preform awesome every time I go golfing!!!

[@RobMcGarr]

The mental side is sooooo important and often overlooked so I reckon you're onto a good thing there mate 👍

[@craignelson5689]

Great video! I was surprised at first to see that this was primarily a composition from other players, but in the end I think seeing the commonalities between them means far more for me than anything you could've monologue'd on about by yourself. As someone who has been golfing less than a year, I'll be focusing on the short game and mental game to get my scores down to the 80s next season :)

[@RobMcGarr]

Cheers Craig, and good luck with your golf 👍

[@nickadams3750]

It's all about the short game . If you think you'll get up and down it takes pressure off the rest of your game .

[@RobMcGarr]

Completely agree 👍

[@michaelangell9148]

I do agree, but if you can not first hit greens in reg you are going to be putting for bogey a lot. I have seen 10+ handicappers with a great short game. Pros practice their short game because most of them are hitting greens in reg when they are 6 yrs old. When your middle age and still playing army golf you may need to have a different approach.

[@Mr.mallaer]

You cannot have a good game if any part of the game is particularly weak, whether it’s a short or a long game, makes no difference.

[@Mr.mallaer]

You can have an amazing short game, but if it takes you 10 shots to be able to utilize it, it’s not going to help much.

[@michaelangell9148]

although saying this just highlights my own golfing flaws @@Mr.mallaer but I never spend as much time reading a double bogey putt as I do a birdie.

[@wodenoftheangles3339]

Excellent video, many sound points.

[@briantreadwell2206]

Liked the variety of the insights from guys who have reached single figures - I need to eliminate my 2 way miss with driver - I’m fixing a slice which now introduces the possibility of a hook 😳

[@alanwaterworth6464]

sounds like you´re over correcting the slice? been there..

[@RobMcGarr]

Cheers Brian 👍 You having lessons?

[@briantreadwell2206]

Lessons, very regularly - coach is good, I understand the principles . . . maybe lose focus on the course and my tempo gets a little quick? Presently 10.6 - shot 7 rounds in the 70s this we have maybe 2 qualifiers left that I can play

[@RobMcGarr]

@@briantreadwell2206 Good luck for the last comps 🤞

[@briantreadwell2206]

If you have 1 tip for the last 2 rounds - and the practice preceding them?

[@timcline1912]

Become target conscious when hitting balls. Never hit a shot at the range that you don’t have a target. Also, instead of hitting the same club 25 times, play a match while your at the range. Hit your driver, put it in the with the cover on it. If, in your mind the imaginary hole is 400 Yards and you hit the drive 250 yards down the fairway, then hit your 150 club. If you miss imaginary green, then hit a chip or pitch. It helped me tremendously.

[@bards7443]

This for me too. Practice has to be focussed. No point in just hitting balls without a reference point.

[@RobMcGarr]

Totally agree, much better than just mindlessly bashing balls.

[@robertreese6999]

Hi Rob, great video. I'm an 8 hcp, started the season at 13 after taking a long break from golf. Looking to practise a lot over the winter and go lower next season! Good tips from everyone in the video. I got to singles by not focusing too much on the score (process based, rather than results based thinking - a video by GolfSidekick covers this really well), and trying to play the correct shot (where to miss, when to lay up etc). Btw, there is a comment below mentioning club head speed - I would say that is important when you are looking at low singles or scratch only. Personally I have a high club head speed, but booming a 300 yard drive up the middle means nothing if you put yourself at an awkward distance to the green, 3-putt, or hit every other drive oob (!) - hence I hit irons or 3-wood off the tee way more than Driver. Good luck everyone achieving that single handicap!

[@paulhoughton5431]

Great video Rob👍 some great tips, I play regularly with a 70 & 72 years old. One plays off scratch the other of 8. Both don’t hit no more than 250 but are so accurate around the greens. I’d say they both never have more than high 20’s in putts. It’s all in the short game & accuracy.

[@RobMcGarr]

Wow, scratch at that age is amazing! Maybe I should get him in a video... 🤔

[@adolfozayas3359]

Great Video. im a mid hdcp player and my short game has kept me from having blow ups on the course. for me i know that if i get better off of the tee...not so much longer but just getting myself in play i know that will get me into single figures quicker.....well at least thats the plan.

[@RobMcGarr]

Thanks Adolfo, and good luck getting to single figures! Keep me posted with how you're getting on.

[@golfraven5669]

Great stuff. Good idea getting all this feedback. What stopping me now to get low - been kicking at 12 for past 2-3 years? I guess playing more again. Practise showed valuable and I shoot in the low digits again. I should be at 7 by end of next year - thats my goal. Will be easy with new gear I got this year - fitted baby 😁🏌️‍♂️

[@RobMcGarr]

New gear can make you want to play more which is good. What did you get?

[@golfraven5669]

Scratch Golf All new shinny Titleist gear - AP3/T-MB, Vokeys SM7, TS3 driver - Mid Staff bag. Loving it 🏌️‍♂️😁

[@myopenmind527]

Btw, I’d happily watch the 10 hour version. This month I’ve had the following scores 75, 84, 79, 83 (par 72). All out of competitions. I still play off a handicap of 14. I’m playing some of the best golf of my life but just not in competitions. I’m considering doing a Nick Faldo this Sunday and talking to my playing partners on the first and not taking again until the 19th to see if I can stay in the bubble. Any tips on staying focused? Getting into the right frame of mind before each and every shot?

[@RobMcGarr]

Most pros actually say it helps to switch off between shots. No one can focus constantly for four hours - it's mentally draining. The key is to switch on when it matters. But also, I'd say relax and treat it like a normal round - you can clearly do it, maybe putting pressure on competition rounds isn't helping?

[@8iTsAT]

Just wonderful, been searching for "best golf irons for mid handicapper" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you heard people talk about - Tonayden Senadelyn Remedy - (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? Ive heard some interesting things about it and my work buddy got amazing results with it.

[@iainwyper9661]

Hey Rob. Great video and good to get different insights from people across the world. Cheers for featuring my clip as well (and for editing it down properly!!). I didn't expect all these autograph hunters at my door though. Should I sign them all Phil Mickelson style or bump them all like Tiger?!

[@RobMcGarr]

You need to be careful bumping people like Tiger - the wife won't be happy! Thanks for contributing mate.

[@iainwyper9661]

@@RobMcGarr No problem mate. Was a pleasure. Your swing was looking great there by the way. Totally ripping it! Scratch too easy hitting it like that. Aim for plus 2!!

[@workingmansgolf2246]

Started breaking 80 consistently by putting the ball on the ground while chipping or pitching as soon as possible. Up and down percentage skyrocketed.

[@myopenmind527]

Rob, can you do a video on what and how you are going to practice this winter.

[@RobMcGarr]

May well do that 👍

[@Ecclestone71]

Excellent Video from better hackers to hackers like myself! I like to see more of this! This is more useful than any Info and utube fix-videos! Got to single figures this year after stalling at 11,5 for about 2years. My conclusions: 1. Biggest and fast improvement can be made with putting. 3feet circle is the base and lagputting 20-50feet to avoid 3putts. Gives much confidence. Work on green reading, facecontrol starting line contact, putts 10f down to convert more Pars and Birdies 2. Avoiding Penalties: From the Tee. Know your shape (mostly fades) Aim to the left side to middle the Fairwayshots percentagewise. Work on that fade and swingmechanics. No Heroshoots from bad and troubled lies, chip back to save place to avoid big numbers 3. Worked on my contact and shanks with Wedges from 120y in. Nowadays I’m so much better and can attack flags. Working on distance, startingline 4. Longgame Irons 190y down. Know your shotshape. Aim for the middle of the green or the good miss with your given shape. Work on quality strike and starting line with Irons. Know your distances. More GIR will develop over time. Think tactical on Approachshots 5. Work on shortgame, chips: Foundation is good contact, trajectory and landingpoint. Also chip with 8-9irons and Wedges. Not only 60-58w 6. Work hard, 30/70% Range and course. Get good technical fundamentals for Setup, contact/strike. If you miss... don’t worry quality and work will pay off over time!

[@tonypenny848]

loved it my short game is so much better ive been working on it but the advice i like what i havnt done is where is the bad one going, i will take that to the course next time i play cheers lads for your vids taken it all in

[@RobMcGarr]

Great stuff, hope it helps mate 👍

[@michaelangell9148]

From my current experience I would say to all new golfers, don't get a handicap until you have a game that you are happy with. I see so many club golfers trying to stay in B grade so they have a chance of winning on the weekend. They are content with there mid handicap and that is fine, but if you really want to get the best out of your game it may be wise to avoid this trap. All the single figure and scratch handicap players at my club are the ones you will find around the practice green late afternoon working on their games. I am 44 and have been playing 2 or 3 times a week for about 2 years. I still don't hold a handicap but have moved from shooting around 100 when I started to mid to high eighties now. Last week I had a one under par for nine holes which was out of the blue but hopefully a sign that I'm starting to understand the game. I hope my first handicap that I hold will be a single figure handicap but until that day I will continue to work on my game.

[@janaGolfer]

Amazing compilation. From what I’ve seen at my club, the only way to get to single figures as a lady golfer is to hit almost average lpga distances or hit all your 50 yd shots within 3 feet. That seems to require either a perfect swing, practice the 50 yd pitch till you are blue in the face or turn into a gym bunny. I am working on 1 and 2 🏌️‍♀️( never been a fan of gyms)

[@RobMcGarr]

I am planning a video looking at LPGA players soon which hopefully you'll find interesting 🙂

[@lesleywillis6177]

I can normally get the ball to 20-30 yards from the green in regulation, short, wide or long. I came to the same conclusion as you. If I can get it down in 2 from there I have a par. Not only that but it takes a lot of pressure off your longer game, par 4? Somewhere near the green in 2 and down in 2 from there!

[@ilovemybeard]

Re short game - do you use 1 club, say a 54 degree for most shots from 40 and in or do you use PW, 8 irons for chipping etc?

[@RobMcGarr]

I've tried both methods but had most success using different clubs - basically the least lofted club possible each time. How about you?

[@ilovemybeard]

@@RobMcGarr still trying to make my mind up haha.

[@birdiesandbeerswithbazza]

Great Vlog with some great tips from everyone... all of which I’ll be taking on board👍👍

[@RobMcGarr]

Look forward to a shoutout when you get to single figures at the start of next season! 🤜🤛

[@harvey785]

Mine too is short game. The rest of my game is improving nicely but my chipping is pants & short putting tentative. But... Guess what I intend to spend my winter focusing on! Off 10.2 at present, I'm hoping 2019 will be the year I finally break single figures!

[@RobMcGarr]

I'm sure it will be mate!

[@ajaytuk7416]

2 things, course management and short game- assuming you can hit the ball consistently onto the fairway. But to set expectations, many of you will not come down in a linear fashion say one shot a month for example- don't be surprised to be stuck for a year or more on the same handicap- then to come down 3 4 or 5 shots in a rush. Handicap progression is often a series of plateaus over several years. I cannot stress enough though- get a good teacher that you can relate too and your journey will be a lot faster.

[@RobMcGarr]

100% agree with that 👍

[@Mr.mallaer]

I think most players are good at course management. I think the problem is in execution of the plan. My ball does not always end up where I intended. I think the key is to develop the ability to strike the ball more consistently and as the ball striking improves the handicap will drop. I think people often confuse course management with poor shot execution. I don’t think anyone intends to deliberately to thin, fat, hook, slice etc. the ball into the hazard.

[@ajaytuk7416]

@@Mr.mallaer I get your point- though I would like to add course management is more than just execution, it is a realistic assessment of ones capabilities combined with judicious risk assessment. If you are a 12 handicapper say trying to get to 9 - I highly recommend getting you to play a few paid rounds with a cat 1 or pro as a caddy and you follow their instructions to the best of your ability no questions asked ;-)

[@keeplearning4441]

This was great, been searching for "blue golf handicap" for a while now, and I think this has helped. You ever tried - Tonayden Senadelyn Remedy - (do a search on google ) ? Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my mate got amazing results with it.

[@KnockedStiffGolf]

6 ft. putts/GIR's/Course Management = my recipe for single-digit handicap. Thanks for the awesome vids!

[@ronkerr4284]

Went from 12 (11.5) to 7 (7.2) this year. Decided to go for it 1 year ago. A number of factors contributed - 1. Custom fit - might be less relevant for some but I am 6’4 and went from standard length, regular shaft clubs with normal grips to 1” longer, stiff, 2 degrees upright and midsize +4 grips with 4 extra layers of tape so huge change 2. Lessons - swing and grip change to avoid the big pulls/hooks that were costing me multiple penalty shots per round. 3. Putting lesson and fitting. 4. Short game lessons with big change in technique for chipping and bunkers 5. Practice++ 2/3 on short game, 1/3 on long game 6. Getting a laser and using trackman to get my yardages including (&most importantly) for both full and 1/2 swings with my wedges

[@CurtisCorbyGolf]

Hi rob!!! Just seen your channel! I’m doing something extremely similar!! I’m looking to do my pga at the end of the year! And showing people how I am getting lower!!! 👍

[@davidgriffiths4789]

Very interesting video hopefully I will be down off single figures soon off 9.6 now. Don't handicap depend on what course you play tho because you may play a easy or difficult course ? Might be a stupid question but just wondering what you think?

[@iainwyper9661]

I would say the course does play a part. For example, if you are a short hitter playing a long course where the C.S.S. holds up around par most of the time it could be argued that you may be off a slightly lower handicap if you were playing a shorter course where the C.S.S. also holds up around par. Good luck getting to single figures bud. Sure it will happen next season.

[@RobMcGarr]

Not a stupid question at all. Someone who's off 13 at Carnoustie might well be off single figures at an "easy" course. It's always good to play other courses and test your game at more than one place 👍

[@davidgriffiths4789]

@@RobMcGarr thanks mate ye always try play different courses played the belfry this weekend played to 12 was happy with that for first time round there. Keep up the good videos 👊

[@rodneyblackwell7477]

I can easily play low 80's in courses near my place in thailand but struggle to play low 90's at the sandbelt courses near my place in Melbourne.

[@prestonbabey3998]

My course was set up for a national championships and a tour event over the last two years...long nasty rough and slick greens definitely added to some handicaps

[@patrickscribner]

I’m playing off 5 here, was sitting at 10 from year 2 until last year really. What I’ve found the difference is that I limit the number of “hero” shots I attempt in a round. Just because I can clear the water if I hit a perfect shot, I actually think to myself what the chances that I’ll hit that perfect shot. Go with what is working and how I’m striking it that day. I agree that the short game will certainly lower the nerves and allow you to be ok with missing a green. You absolutely need to know your yardages, not the extremes, but the avg. what do you really carry that 5 iron, not what you hear on TV or that one time you carried it 210, the other 50 times you barely carried it 170. If people track their shots, they’ll find they are short probably 60% of the time. Start by hitting a club that reaches the back of the green, see what happens to your scores when you actually start to hit the middle of the green rather than 25 yds short

[@RobMcGarr]

Cracking advice this 👍 Ian Poulter's caddie told me that if it's a shot they won't pull off at least 8 times out of 10, they don't take it on.

[@Mrpizzaslice1]

started this year of 31, and kinda ended on 9,7. Tbh dont even feel like ive gotten better, just seem to be getting better scores. I think the biggest thing was that i played so much this summer.

[@RobMcGarr]

That's a hell of an improvement, well done! 👏

[@atscottcarnoustie2946]

Hi Rob. Sorry I didn't get back to you after our chat but was in Marbella for a couple of weeks and just back. Just to agree with a lot of the other comments...short game and putting. And practice these as much as possible. Any gorilla can knock it 300yds but then take another 6 to get it in the hole. Great vid. Scott Carnoustie

[@RobMcGarr]

No worries mate, hope you had a good time!

[@jamesbrower1611]

What putter were you using at the end?

[@RobMcGarr]

Bettinardi

[@jamesbrower1611]

I thought it was. I tested the BB1 and I liked it. I’m picked one up today. I hope it’s working well for you.

[@frankschumacher666]

Here are my 2 cents to the topic. To get your handicap lower than 10 you need an "ok" swing + a solid short game. If you miss the green, you need to get up and down at least more than 50%. If you want to get lower than a 5 handicap, you also need course management. Make smart descisions to stay away from trouble and always keep the ball in play! I practice 60% short game and 40% shots on the range (mostly short to mid irons).

[@RobMcGarr]

Agreed. 50% is very good if you can maintain that. Course management is great because you can score better without having to get any better!

[@jaybyrne4562]

I'm off 13, down from 14 this year. I'm going to hit single figures this year. Shot single figures in last 2 comp rounds (winter comps, no cuts). Biggest difference is that I'm hitting the ball about 80% power of what I used to. Much more controllable. Next I'm gonna work on my up and down from around the green and 50 yds in!

[@petel3366]

Rob - I listen to your vids mainly on headphones and hearing your ball strike says a lot about your swing. It’s got “that” sound. From 100yards in is where it’s at ... so long as you’re not playing 3 off the tee all the time. Many players lose their long game but can still score. A player who can (chip and) putt is a match for anyone.

[@RobMcGarr]

Totally agree mate - if you take 3 or less every time you get to 100 yards and in you'll do alright.

[@videom]

My "handicap" was putting. I got a sky-pro and found out I was constantly pulling and closing my putter face on every putt. After weeks on working this out my handicap dropped from a 10 to a 6!

[@RobMcGarr]

Wow, that was a good buy then!

[@j2martnz348]

I've been playing for 3 years .. Picked up the game at 40. I'm at 7.1 and have been down to 5.9 this summer. I've taken lessons , practiced a lot . Year one I was shooting low 90's . Year 2 i was shooting in the 80's consistently . Year 3 i started shooting in the 70's probably once out of every 3 rounds. The key for me was course management and learning to minimize big numbers . I got to range a lot , and play a lot. I've learned to still score well when I'm not particularly hitting it well.

[@sometimesitcurls]

Been in single figures for a few years now and if you asked me I'd have said short game, then I read a post I wrote when I got cut to 9 for the first time. It was long game. A swing change that had me getting the ball greenside more often. Maybe it's different for different folks, we all have our strengths and weaknesses, but if you've come across "Near Greens In Reg" before you'll know that unless you're within 40 yards of the green (and not in trouble) on at least 14 holes per round regularly, statistically you probably won't make it to single digits regardless of your short game prowess. When you get down to 9 or less, then short game is where you make the most gains.

[@thegolf_dad]

I really wanted to be involved in this and share my wisdom... but I’m so far away from single figures it’s scary!! Really enjoyed this though... some great tips too 👍👍

[@wx811]

Course management got me to an 8 from 17. Played the golf course rather than just taking driver and smashing it. Also learned my exact yardages, not the yardages that boost ego. Dropped to an 8 real quick.

[@austint8784]

I got custom fitted at the beginning of the year and now im playing around 8.6 , my driver is 40 yards longer and my irons are playing a small draw. This year my handicap started at 13, and still working on sort game and putting all year. Good luck to everyone trying to lower ur scores.

[@RobMcGarr]

Wow, that's a huge difference! Where did you get fitted and what for?

[@jpquinn91]

Practice is key. Lots of people play once a week and wonder why they don't get better. Playing and practicing are not the same thing and it needs to be effective practice. Practice the shots you need to play, whether that's on the course, range, chipping green.

[@gabbeboiii5083]

I started playing golf when i was 12 I’m 14 now and I’m at 10,3 hcp is tha good?

[@dannycoombs3214]

I just got down to 9 earlier this month and my 3 tips are: -Get a course planner and plan ur way through each way and aim the simplest way is to aim for the widest part of the fairway -Practise chipping and practise the feel of chips making sure you can secure a par -Stay away from the block practise (driving range) and play on a course with two balls trying to get two consistent shots each time to play with 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@RobMcGarr]

Love it, great advice 🙌

[@dannycoombs3214]

Scratch Golf Cheers keep up the vids they’re getting better each upload

[@jamiebrowne5161]

Hi ya, I found volume of golf is the key to get to single figures. Now if time is an issue, I believe a lesson every 2 weeks working through from long game to short game with your local pro. Short game is the key also, if you can get the ball near the green in 2, let’s say on a par 4, and your short game is good, higher chance of getting up and down. I do it is more enjoyable to practice the long game, believe you me if your short game is good and you get up and down a lot, confidence goes up and long game improves drematically. Hope this helps - Jamie +4 handicap

[@jamiebreslin3242]

Great Video Rob

[@RobMcGarr]

Cheers bud 👍

[@ljm1294]

Looking forward to this!!!

[@ljm1294]

Great vid rob! This is something I’m really trying to push for this winter! Fingers crossed 🤞🏻 keep up the vids mate, helps with motivation to get out there!

[@randalllaframboise360]

I think these are all great suggestions, so when I took golf more seriously, all those adages were there..."Improve your short game", "have an air of alert indifference (Moe Norman)", "go with the shot shape you brought to the course". Golf is about adaptation, since you will never have the same shot twice...ever. There will always be something different. So, after coming to this conclusion, I had to work out how to get better with differential practise. All things being equal, the only aspect the golfer can control is how (shot shape, amplitude, height, etc.) and how fast to swing the club. Sounds obvious, right? Those two variables when trying to execute a shot come with a lot of baggage that the typical golfer gets hit with - external factors like wind, attitude, previous shots, etc. This is material for another video altogether, so I'll get to my point. The reason why the short game improves the overall golf game is that the shorter shots "improve" your brain's template of what to expect for a shot. You learn how to put clubface to ball in most efficient manner, so to speak. All that's required to get better at golf about 20 to 25 yards of space, and somewhere to swing WITHOUT a ball. Practise moving that club with all the swing lengths, and speeds with whatever club you can. Then take your PW and lower clubs (SW, GW, LW), and use that 25 yards of space - hit low, high, chip, pitch, and use real and plastic golf balls. Learn how to hit it using all the space and everything in between, very much like badminton or table tennis. That extra variable helps develop feel for the tools and the little round object you're hitting. Swing to feel the club in your hands, without a ball; use the ground interaction for your improved coordination. This is where your imagination works for the betterment of your game then anything else. Don't have a golf course? Think of one in your mind, and practice there. If Ben Hogan can do it, I'm sure we can. I know this works - I get to play golf once a week, and don't have time to go to a range or course to practise, but I do have 60' in my back yard. That helped develop the "template" I use to hit full or partial shots, because that's where the true skill in golf lies - you adapting to a situation based on what you've experienced previously, then applying it. This is most practical advice I can give to someone who has limited resources but is serious in improving their game. Your backyard will look like crap, but you will be a better golfer.

[@danhenock2614]

The short game is extremely important within 100 yards, and within 20 yards You want to be able to hit a 2 to 4-foot circle on the green. If you're losing shots due to your driver stop using it, and stop asking other players what club they are using understand your distances. Don't be afraid to club up or club down depending on situations such as wind Grass conditions or a possible Miss. Develop a strategy and apply it consistently This should help those with 10 to 13 handicap get to single digits. For those with 15 or higher handicap you're likely struggling due to other issues separate from strategic planning. Working on your entire game is important Potting, Chipshot, approach shot, and T-shot In that order of importance. Potting in shipping for most people is free to practice at their local course and should be the quickest to improve but should be the most time spent practicing. If you feel like you don't have enough distance because you're too young or to old your most likely Using your arms Too early in your swing. Don't be afraid to Layup if the situation calls for it. If none of this helps improve your game then you could try Allan Clarks Idea.

[@lew536]

Something not mentioned by anyone that could help all golfers is superspeed golf training, you can buy the sticks but you do not need them, you just need 3 clubs (could even use a tour stick for lightweight club) of varying weight, I started this just 4 days ago when I noticed I was struggling to swing driver any quicker than 95mph when I know a controlled 98-100 is definitely in my locker, get on trackman today after doing the training protocol (found on their KZbin channel) twice a day and I got up to 100.7 with my playing swing and 103 with my joe miller impression, sticking with a playing swing that prioritises accuracy while playing is key though, it will be faster than your previous playing swing if you put all you can into the training for one or two 10 minute sessions a day

[@RobMcGarr]

I had a session with Lee Cox last week that made me realise how much untapped speed I have! Was swinging it 95 at the start and 110 at the end (although that was all-out, not a swing I'd take to the course)

[@LivingOverPar]

My thing is I need custom fit clubs! Im playing with 2007 Nike forged CCi's that I bought for 250.00 Im 5'9" and the toe of the club sticks up a bit at address.

[@kayleebeaumont8659]

For me it was something I didn't hear anyone in this video talk about, MENTAL GAME. I've always been one of those people that is just a natural athlete. Basically anything with a ball and/or ✋ eye coordination. But my weakness is the mental approach. I could start birdie, par, par, then double bogey. After the bad hole I'd give up. My focus was sub par. I'd deviate from my pre-shot routine. I'd take less time on crutial chips and putts. I'd take unnecessary risks with drivers, and going for tough pins. * A little of this goes into the course management and strategy aspect of things * but you can see how giving up, or being weak mentally can hinder the physical aspect of the game. In closing, all single digit players have a strong mental game. They understand not every shot is going to be great, or up to their standards. It's about overcoming adversity, knowing that one bad shot or bad hole isn't going to make or break your round, and having the belief and confidence in yourself to know you have the ability to recover next shot or next hole. I've seen many physically talented players even more so than myself shoot 90+ all because their mental game was weak. As cliche as it sounds try your absolute best on each shot regardless of how good or bad your last was, At the end of the round you'll be shocked on how well you scored. Great video! Best of luck to you and your subscribers and viewers!!

[@peterwatt5521]

Seems to be a bit of a mixed bag here. Playing off 19 and seem to be stuck. Been grouped with SFH and didnt see that they did anything special compared to myself. One guy can drive it 300+ yards and never hit a fairway and cannot putt. Personally i think course management is my downfall/Ego. Taking 3 wood as my second shot on a Par 5 and duffing it and giving a shot away. Many of the comments here have got me thinking i will put more focus on short game for the time being....thanks for the input

[@thatgeezeruk]

I play off 9 myself and my advice is LOSE YOUR EGO! and LESS IS MORE! I used to be a 7 and there is an algorithm for this HcP + kids + wife = nHcP :)

[@larrysinger9359]

Another great vid! Keep it up!!!

[@Mr.mallaer]

I have days when I am just smashing all the clubs in the bag. Just hitting them pure, and then incomprehensibly the next day I cannot hit any of them properly.

[@RobMcGarr]

That's golf! 🤯

[@nickough]

So Mil Sneler, you shoot 65 one day, then 85?? .... Are you really 'just smashing' them on good days, or just hitting them as best as you can? Be realistic....it sounds like your mechanics are very inconsistent? Do you forget how to drive a car from one day to the next? It's all about developing intrinsic consistent swing mechanics. #talentisamyth Learn about purposeful practice and change the way you train and learn - forever. Read the books.

[@Mr.mallaer]

@@nickough My swing is getting much more consistent. I have never shot 65, but did shoot 75 just couple of days ago. I hit all the fairways and greens. Caught few fairway bunkers and missed bunch of makable puts. There are days when my mental picture is off and this translates in not being able to visualize swing, resulting in poor ball striking, but this happens less and less frequently. I have been playing golf for less than two years.

[@RobMcGarr]

@@nickoughI don't think he ever mentioned shooting 65 but, even if he did, no golfer is truly "consistent" in that way and no one shoots 65 every time they go out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWOYmWmnj69oq6M

[@OurHouseChannel]

I'm just a 9.6. So I may be far from the one to give advice. My number one tip to every last person I meet is simple; Forget the pros. Put them out of your mind. Very few of us are wealthy and bored enough to put in the amount of time and money these guys do. Add in the fact that they have swing coaches, short game coaches, putting coaches, the best equipment, nutritionists, trainers, and shrinks. No way is that level realistic for 99 percent of us. Play with the swing you have. Know youre misses and play insurance shots to avoid disaster holes. Practice inside of 50 yards in your backyard when you get home from work. Par being 72, 36 are given as putts, so that leaves 36. Of that 36, only about 8 to 10 should be full driver. Of the remaining 26, another 8 to 10 are likely to be irons. That leaves about 16 that will be wedges, partial wedges, and chips. Scrambling successfully 75 percent of the time is far more valuable than a 300 yard drive.

[@RobMcGarr]

That's some very smart thinking, I like it a lot 👍

[@m.d.8721]

Hey Rob, how about making a video "how to get to scratch" ? sort of next step ...

[@RobMcGarr]

Interesting... 🤔

[@jaimemantel9002]

For me the big improvement came from my driver and second shot on long holes. If you can't get to the green in regulation then single figure handicap is probably not attainable.

[@rodneyblackwell7477]

I need a one way miss, improve pitching and improve bunker play.

[@RobMcGarr]

Doing it on your own or with a coach mate?

[@rodneyblackwell7477]

@@RobMcGarr on my own. I have been working in a non tourist part of thailand so not many coaches here. I call it my swing journey rather than playing golf.. i am happy with the improvements. Getting close to eliminating the left side ( i am right handed).

[@joeworden-chilvers2152]

Rob I’ve watched all your videos now.. can you quit your day job and just start producing one a day just love your Channel bud 👍🏻 honest propa golf chat 👍🏻 question for you my handicap has gone from 22 to 15 in 4 months I feel consistency is what is stoping me getting to single figures would you say time on the course is all I need?

[@RobMcGarr]

Haha thank you mate but no one needs a daily dose of my nonsense! It sounds like you're going in the right direction so keep doing what you're doing!

[@barking_mad6649]

Consistency is massive. I went from 24 to 19 this last year but that included many rounds where a mid 80's score was blighted by two or three triple bogies, which when I looked back were a couple of bad shots that cost me 6 or 9. If I could cut those out I'd be close to breaking 80.

[@mr-dpc-5018]

I think perhaps the course you play at sometimes does not help, I have seen many players join my course and leave after 1-2 years because its to hard and to tight for them. I have been playing my course for 20 years and have been around 5-7 handicap for the last 17 yrs, when i first went there i went from 9 to 12 in 9 months, the harder i tired the worse i got. I practiced all the spare time i had and it did not really make much difference but then i started to play with different players, one was the professional at the club and some low handicappers, this made a lot of difference watching them and how they played, where they hit it and what they looked for in putting and chipping. anyone can bomb it of the tee. also i was encouraged to make my targets smaller from the tee, not just hitting the fairway but pick a particular cut line, aim for certain halves of the green and most importantly know how far you hit the ball with each club. all this really helped and in no time at all i was coming down. this all helped me to get down to cat 1.

[@RobMcGarr]

I think I really need to start playing with some better players sometimes. It's just easier to stay in your comfort zone playing with your mates!

[@swirvefrance]

There really is no substitute for playing under scorecard pressure,in other words, in competition. When you control your nerves and therefore your body, better scores start to happen. Not making handicap improvement a goal, but a by product, helps me concentrate on just playing.

[@RobMcGarr]

Agreed! I sometimes get too focused on handicap - best to let that take care of itself.

[@swirvefrance]

Scratch Golf It is so hard not to become focused just on the handicap but I'm with you on this. Mental energy is better put to use on doing the right things at the right moments. I sincerely hope you make it to scratch, you certainly have the commitment. Really enjoy the channel.

[@steves9971]

Hi Rob. The cliche "drive for dough, putt for show" rings loud in my ears. I spend half my time working on short game and putting. I don't think it's enough for me. Don't be afraid to leave those balls behind at the driving range - work on inside 50 yards, that's where the gold lies.

[@jimmylegs06]

Was a 6.5 handi, driver went to hell and went to 10. Worked my way back to a 7.5 but i am more frustrated than ever. Cant seem to get to 5 or less. Everything about my game is good or "average" at worst. I dont do anything great. That is frustrating.

[@MrRicey155]

Has anyone ever seen Rob McGarr or Karlason in the same room #Twins 😁. Fringes look lovely #GrassSeedRequired.

[@RobMcGarr]

Wish my game was more like his! 😂 New club required I think 🤔

[@swiftchopper4556]

Michael Broderick utube coaching did it 4 me!

[@Maruchino]

Great concept for a video, well done. Next one... How players broke 100

[@RobMcGarr]

Thank you! Been meaning to do something along those lines for a while...

[@edge69084]

Massively agree with the first guy, playing on a course, not scoring and using real life situation have improve my game although still no where single figures but now constantly under 100. Your never going to improve just at the range it’s all about game time.

[@RobMcGarr]

Single figures next year! 🤷‍♂️

[@rickmason3024]

My problem i dont hit the ball far enough and dont play enough

[@RobMcGarr]

How far do you hit it?

[@oakisbob]

Can I sue you if I don't make it to single figures? ;-) Can't wait for the video!

[@RobMcGarr]

Only if I can claim commission when you do get there!

[@oakisbob]

Scratch Golf fair play! You’ll get 25% if I ever turn pro.... 😂😜

[@oakisbob]

Scratch Golf btw the chances to turn pro in two sports is even slimmer than only in golf 😉

[@RobMcGarr]

@@oakisbob What are you pro in then? A few people have done it!

[@oakisbob]

Scratch Golf I was a professional basketball player for more than 15 years. Now I am hooked into golf and getting to single digits hopefully next year.

[@Eaaatlife]

My problem is my effin tee ball. My tee ball adds on at least 2 strokes every other hole. Fml

[@ajnasu5099]

Winner of a video, I've been looking for "golf handicap odds" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Tonayden Senadelyn Remedy - (should be on google have a look ) ? Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my work buddy got excellent success with it.

[@omarkhan9515]

Custom fitting and coaching deep deep inside we know it does not really work. Hitting fairways will give you every opportunity to go low, find a way.

[@DunnGolfing]

That was cool even though I look old as lol

[@zxgopher]

Off 5 and still watching.. is that weird ?

[@RobMcGarr]

Haha, I found lots of the advice useful - hope you did too!

[@Takeabowson1986]

How do i get mine down to double figures 😂😂😂

[@ericwilliams398]

DimeBagJon Just play 9 holes

[@Gmanxie]

You’re quite Mr R 🤫 - anything new coming out?😊

[@stevewatkinson4593]

Short game and game management

[@allanclark6730]

Get a divorce

[@alanwaterworth6464]

funny, Paul Simon never mentions trying to get to single figures in golf in the song "50 ways to leave your lover" ;)

[@johnhue8933]

Allan Clark There is a lot of truth in your comment, I am single figures and single, there is no way on earth I would have got to single figures when I was living with my last girlfriend or achieved what I have financially. I tried but it did not work.Getting to single figures requires time to train and research and both of those things are sapped when living with a woman and that is without the rolling of the eyes everytime you pick up the golf bag and head for the door.

[@GolfSidekick]

John Hue I like this comment a lot. Waddaman! It is pure total plain truth.

[@dpardo74]

@Allen Clark ....like a boss. :)

[@rickthom46]

Or marry a women who is a golf junkie

[@rickmason3024]

Driver is about 200yards