Not very good on the course :(.

[Drape Stor]

Hello all I am new here :).

I am having a problem with range to course playing. I have searched the forums but have not come across the same problem. I use to go to the range and just hit ball after ball but then changed that afew months ago to practice like I do on the course. I play great on the range with or without a pre-shot routine but when I go to the course and do my pre-shot routine I get all sorts of results, short, long, right, left, putts and chips. My irons play really nice but it is mainly my short game that is really weird. When I address the ball and just hit it on the short game while on the course, my ball lands within tapping distance majority of the time. When I address the ball and hit it straight away I feel comfortable.

This is confusing me so just after answers, really appreciate the feedback thanks :).

[David in FL]

Welcome to the site! One recommendation.... On the range, the tendency for a lot of us is, as you said, to just "hit away", while on the course, you're generally aiming at something. The fairway, a layup point, the green, the pin..... When you're at the range, make sure that every shot you hit has an actual target in mind. A flag, a hill, even a grouping of balls out in your landing area. That mindset on the range will help you learn about the natural tendencies of your swing and will help transition your game to the course, both physically and mentally.

[MEfree]

Originally Posted by Drape Stor

When I address the ball and just hit it on the short game while on the course, my ball lands within tapping distance majority of the time. When I address the ball and hit it straight away I feel comfortable.

I might be miss reading what you are saying, but I would just do this if it is working for you.

In terms of range practice- pick a target and hit the shot.  Then pick a new target and hit the shot.  Some of your range time should simulate how you play on the course.

[boogielicious]

Drape Stor,

That is a big challenge for a lot a golfers, including me.  On the course the lies are different, your swing a little off, etc.  But a couple of key things have helped me out.  Get to know the distances you hit your clubs from experience on the course and not the range.  Range balls are hard and beat up.  Par 3s and approach shots are good for this.  Use shots that had good contact.

Second, focus on your target on the course and don't think about mechanics, save maybe one 'swing thought' for the day.  Analyze how the ball flew after the shot and if you are fading 5-10 consistently, then adjust accordingly unless you know what caused the errant shot (i.e. set up).  For me, my miss is an over draw with my irons.  I know what causes it, but if I can't correct, then I adjust my target line.

Short game saves a lot of pars.  Sounds like you are comfortable with that when you just 'play' and don't think too much.  Keep that approach, but practice unusual lies to chip and pitch from.  We get a lot of those on the course.

Lastly, if you have access to a grass range, sneak to the edge and hit balls out of the rough when you can.  If they have side or down/up hill lies, even better.  We get these shots all the time on the course and a perfect range does help us work on them.  I did that the other night because I was getting inconsistent out of the rough.  Basically, work on you weaknesses more.

Have fun.