Transforming Practice: How I Help Golfers Lower Scores With Data, Drills, and Real-World Application

Transform your practice: Lower your golf scores today!

Too many golf tips online sound like this: "Keep your head down." "Swing easy." "Don't overswing." While these phrases are common, they rarely create lasting improvement. As a PGA Professional, I’ve found that meaningful progress comes from data-driven training, customized drills, and real-world scenarios.

Let’s walk through how I help players lower scores using a system that goes far beyond traditional advice.

Step 1: Assessing with Purpose

Every lesson starts with a clear objective. Whether it’s reducing three-putts or hitting more fairways, I use tools like TrackMan, SAM PuttLab, Bushnell, and Foresight GC Quad to benchmark your current performance.

Example: A recent student averaged 32 putts per round. After using a PDI assessment to identify areas of improvement, we adjusted his process and set-up. Within the next week, he had 26 putts —a significant drop over 18 holes while shooting his lowest personal score.

Step 2: Designing Drills Based on Data

Instead of generic advice, we design practice plans rooted in your swing data. Using TPI screening and video analysis, I target specific flaws, like a steep angle of attack or early extension.

Drill: For a player struggling with chunked wedges, I use my “Landing Zone Ladder” drill. With alignment sticks and yardage markers, we define target zones and train control. We measure outcomes using a launch monitor for carry distances to develop consistency.

Step 3: Simulating On-Course Pressure

Practice should simulate play. I design challenges where players must:

• Hit a fade or draw under time pressure

• Execute short-game sequences with only one ball

• Make 3 out of 5 six-footers to "win the match"

These pressure tests build what I call Tournament Transfer—the ability to carry progress onto the course.

Bonus Tip: I often recreate scenarios for students improve their performance, just like I do during my own competitive rounds in the South Florida PGA Section.

Step 4: Reinforce With Feedback and Follow-Up

No lesson ends without a recap, goals, and accountability. I can send a lesson summary, assign drills with scores, and schedule the next check-in.

One student told me: "This is the first time I’ve actually stuck with a plan. The feedback loop keeps me motivated."

Conclusion: Elevate Your Practice, Elevate Your Game

Improvement isn’t random. It’s a repeatable process built on assessment, purpose, and accountability. Whether you’re a junior, club champion, or beginner, I create a blueprint tailored to your goals.

---

Ready to take your practice from guesswork to greatness? Book a session with me in Boca Raton or online at www.ericjmacdonaldpga.com, and let’s start turning potential into performance.

---

Eric Mac Donald, PGA | Certified in TrackMan, SAM PuttLab (Level 3), GolfForever, and TPI Power 2