What Low Handicappers Do That Mid-Handicappers Don’t
One of the hardest things to do in golf is to get into the illusive low single-digit handicaps. The difference between a low handicapper (0-5) and a mid-handicapper (10-20) isn't just natural talent—it’s about key habits, mindset shifts, and skill refinements that allow better golfers to separate themselves. If you're looking to break into single digits or simply shave strokes off your game, understanding these differences can be a game-changer.
1. Superior Course Management
One of the biggest distinctions between low and mid-handicappers is how they approach the course. Low handicappers think strategically about each shot, considering factors like wind, pin placement, and course conditions before pulling a club.
What Mid-Handicappers Do:
Often play aggressively without assessing risk vs. reward, like taking a risky line over trees on a dogleg tee shot that may only save a few yards on the approach shot.
Tend to aim directly at pins regardless of their position on the green, including if they’re near a hazard or area that would be difficult to recover from if the shot should miss the green.
What Low Handicappers Do:
Play to their strengths, choosing safer targets to avoid penalty strokes whenever possible.
Aim their approach shots to the center of the green and putt to the hole locations on the edges of the green.
Take their time when choosing clubs, considering factors such as elevation, temperature, the ball’s lie, etc.
2. Short Game Mastery
One of the biggest indicators of Low handicappers is the significant amount of time they commit to their short game, understanding that saving strokes around the green is the quickest way to lower scores.
What Mid-Handicappers Do:
Spend most of their practice time on the driving range without once visiting the short game area or putting green.
Struggle with distance control in putting, often leaving lag putts well outside of 3-4 feet away from the hole and often commit avoidable 3-putts multiple times in a round of golf.
Have a limited variety of shots around the green, and often struggle with choosing the correct type of shot for a particular situation.
What Low Handicappers Do:
Practice chipping, pitching, and bunker shots consistently.
Develop multiple short game shots (bump-and-run, flop shot, etc.) and have a good idea what shot works best for various situations around the golf course.
Control putting speed and read greens well enough to get the majority of their lag putts in easy-make range for their next putt and almost always average less than 36 putts in a round
3. Effective Practice Routines
Practicing smarter, not just harder, is a major difference between these skill levels. Low handicappers use purposeful drills and structured sessions, while many mid-handicappers simply hit balls without a clear goal.
What Mid-Handicappers Do:
Hit balls randomly without tracking progress.
Ignore weaknesses and focus on strengths.
What Low Handicappers Do:
Use data-driven practice, tracking stats like proximity to the hole and fairways hit.
Implement deliberate practice, targeting weaknesses with structured drills.
Utilize technology like launch monitors to refine mechanics.
4. Mental Game & Emotional Control
Golf is just as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Low handicappers excel at staying focused, controlling their emotions, and managing pressure situations effectively.
What Mid-Handicappers Do:
Let bad shots affect their next swings.
Struggle with confidence after a few mistakes.
What Low Handicappers Do:
Maintain a strong mental routine to reset after bad shots.
Use visualization and breathing techniques to stay composed.
Stick to a game plan regardless of emotions.
5. Dialed-In Equipment Choices
Low handicappers ensure their equipment is optimized for their game. Custom club fitting, proper shaft selection, and understanding their yardages give them an edge over mid-handicappers who often play with stock equipment.
What Mid-Handicappers Do:
Play with clubs that aren’t properly fitted.
Lack awareness of their precise yardages.
What Low Handicappers Do:
Get fitted for clubs tailored to their swing.
Know their carry distances for every club.
Optimize wedge gapping and adjust loft/lie angles as needed.
6. Understanding Ball Flight Laws
Low handicappers have a strong grasp of what causes the ball to move the way it does. They understand spin, launch angles, and shot shapes, allowing them to self-correct during a round.
What Mid-Handicappers Do:
Misdiagnose their misses and make poor swing adjustments.
Lack knowledge of ball flight laws and physics of what causes a golf ball to fly the way it does.
What Low Handicappers Do:
Understand cause and effect in their swings.
Make quick adjustments based on ball flight feedback and having a sound understanding of ball flight law physics.
7. Fitness & Mobility Training
Physical conditioning plays a role in performance. Low handicappers often incorporate fitness routines that improve flexibility, strength, and endurance, while mid-handicappers may overlook this aspect.
What Mid-Handicappers Do:
Neglect mobility and flexibility work.
Experience fatigue late in the round.
What Low Handicappers Do:
Work on core strength and flexibility to maintain consistency.
Stay fit to avoid injury and improve swing efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Closing the gap between a mid-handicapper and a low handicapper isn’t about overnight transformations—it’s about disciplined practice, smarter strategy, and better self-awareness. By focusing on these areas, you’ll not only lower your scores but also develop a more well-rounded, consistent game.
If you’re serious about improvement, start implementing these habits in your routine and watch the difference it makes in your scores!
If you’re stuck with your game as a mid-handicapper and want to improve your scores, let’s work together! Reach out, and I’d love to help you lower your handicap so you can start playing your best golf.
📍 Bird of Prey Golf | Raleigh, Cary, North Raleigh
📞 Call or Text: (318) 381-3605
⛳ Let’s do this!
